Date:
Sep 25 - Oct 2, 2022
Activity Level:
EASY-MODERATE
Duration:
0 Days
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Transpantaneira Road in Pantanal
Ocelot
Jabiru
Giant otter
Hyacinth Macaw
Yacaré caiman
Capybaras
Jaguar
Photography in the Pantanal
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About this trip

Located in central-western Brazil, the Pantanal is the world’s largest freshwater wetland and one of the most biodiverse habitats on the South American continent. The region’s star residents are the jaguars that roam, hunt, and lounge on the forested riverbanks. Embark on an exceptional 15-day adventure with Layne Kennedy for the opportunity to observe and photograph these majestic big cats at close range, along with other spectacular wildlife and hundreds of bird species. Explore the region’s varied terrains on foot and during small-boat excursions, with several nights aboard comfortable floating accommodations that put you in the heart of the action.

Highlights

  • Search for jaguars, giant otters, capybaras, iguanas, anacondas, caimans, and much more while exploring the North Pantanal.
  • Drive along the Transpantaneira, a mostly dirt highway that passes through many habitats and is often described as the best road in the world to spot and photograph wildlife.
  • Enjoy one-of-a-kind opportunities to observe and photograph fascinating species like the Ocelot and Maned Wolf during private experiences.
  • Discover the diverse avian life of the area’s stunning ecosystems, including the Hyacinth Macaw, Toco Toucan, Greater Rhea, and even a birds-eye view of a Jabiru’s nest.
  • Attend informative lectures on the Pantanal’s jaguars, its biodiversity, and local culture, and learn about some of the region’s research projects aiming to conserve its flora and fauna.

Meet your leader

Layne Kennedy

Educated in fine art photography, Layne Kennedy is known for his editorial photography that conveys a strong sense of place. His images are featured in magazines worldwide on subjects as varied as Pink Dolphins in the Amazon River to traveling with Polar Inuit hunters by dogsled.

His diverse feature work appears in Smithsonian, Audubon, Sports Illustrated, Nature Conservancy, National Geographic Traveler, Forbes, Business Week and other magazines.

He has contributed to numerous books for several publishers, including the National Geographic Society, The Nature Conservancy, Insight Guides, McMillan, Discovery, and more. He has completed several books titled Minnesota; Now & Then for Voyageur Press, A Hard Water World-Ice Fishing And Why We Do It, PADDLE NORTH-Canoeing The Boundary Waters/Quetico Wilderness for the Minnesota Historical Society Press, and LIGHT OVER ICELAND.

A frequent speaker at events and workshops, Layne has been teaching photography for more than 25 years. He currently teaches with the Worldwide Mentor Treks, MplsPhotoCenter, North House Folk School, Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge, and his own worldwide photo tours to Italy, Iceland and Kenya.

His photographs are represented by his office in Minneapolis, and Getty in New York City.

Layne’s newest book, BEYOND THE LIGHT-The Stories Behind The Photographs, a Special Edition Printing of only 750 copies, is now out! The book is a myriad collection of photographsand the stories behind the images spanning 45 years. It’s the perfect book for any photographer or visual artist. To get an idea of where and how this book was printed and some insight on why the book was published, please watch the 3-minute videos below made during Press Check at Brilliant Graphics in Exton, PA.
 
PRESS CHECK: https://vimeo.com/873077752    
 
Layne’s comments on the making of this book: https://vimeo.com/1031282183?share=copy 
 

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Designed for photographers

Itineraries are thoughtfully scheduled to provide an optimum balance of beautiful natural light and wildlife activity

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart U.S.
Depart the U.S. on your overnight flight to Brazil.
Cuiaba
Arrive into Cuiabá, where you will be met and taken to the hotel. Cuiabá is the capital of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso and the gateway to the wetlands of North Pantanal. It also sits in an ecologically interesting spot at the transition zone between three important ecosystems in Brazil: the Amazon, the Cerrado, and the Pantanal. As today is a travel day, meals are not included. Check-in starts at 2 pm.
Dinner included
Hotel Deville
North Pantanal
After breakfast and a program orientation at the hotel, begin the journey to SouthWild Pantanal Lodge at the Fazenda Santa Tereza. A portion of the trip is along the Transpantaneira, with stops planned for wildlife photography. This highway, which crosses the Pantanal and consists of mostly dirt, gravel, and more than 120 wooden bridges, is one of the only access roads into the Pantanal's interior. The drive can be bumpy, but it passes through many habitats and is often described as the best road in the world to spot and photograph wildlife. Animals regularly seen include the giant anteater, armadillo, caiman, marsh deer, silvery marmoset, black howler monkey, and many species of water birds. Arrive at the lodge in time for lunch, and then take part in one of the lodge's wildlife viewing activities. These might include a low-speed boat outing on the Pixaim River, famous for its abundance of birds, caimans, capybaras, giant otters, and jaguars, hiking on the 2.5-mile network of scientific trails, which offer full access to the gallery forest, or ascending two easy walk-up towers, one near a Jabiru nest, and the other in the gallery forest on the riverbank. Both observation towers offer excellent birding experiences from a spectacular vantage point. This evening, visit the lodge's ocelot blind for a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe these wild cats at close range.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Southwild Lodge
North Pantanal
There are several activities to choose from today, which include nature and wildlife walks on 2.5 miles of marked, scientifically-designed trails in the gallery forest along the Pixaim River, wildlife observation from three strategically-placed observation towers, the SouthWild Howler Monkey Experience, the SouthWild Ocelot Experience, or 2-hour motorboat outings on the Pixaim River.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Southwild Lodge
North Pantanal
Start the day with a 2.5-hour drive along the Transpantaneira to Porto Jofre, which sits at the border between the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul. Enjoy a few minutes here to photograph some of the Hyacinth Macaws that roam around the place in search of fruit before embarking on a boat ride toward SouthWild Flotel & Jaguar Suites. The spacious rooms at this floating lodge feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that face the wild forests of the famous Encontro das Águas State Park. Here, it is possible to see jaguars walking through the banks of the Piquiri River year-round, but the best months for observation are June through November, when climate conditions are the most favorable. Jaguars, the largest feline in South America, thrive here due to the region's tranquility and its abundance of prey. Jaguars are also a major draw for visitors mindful of responsible travel, which provides economic incentives for local communities to further protect these apex predators and the habitats on which they rely. Have lunch on board, and then make the most of a 4-hour journey along the narrow canals in search of these big cats, as well as giant otters, tapirs, and other wildlife. Arrive at the flotel in the evening to have dinner and attend a lecture.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jaguar Suites
North Pantanal
Spend the morning on a 4-hour boat outing in search of jaguars and other wildlife. After lunch, embark on a shorter boat ride of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes toward a special site where it is possible to observe and photograph the maned wolf, South America's largest canid. Along the way, enjoy more of the unparalleled wildlife observation experience that the Pantanal provides. Arrive at a private fishing camp where a mated pair of maned wolves has been spotted daily since August of 2023. It may be possible to see the adult male, the adult female, or both, as at least one of the adults walks by each late afternoon or evening at some point between 3:30 and 10 pm. This species lives in mated pairs instead of in packs. In the late afternoon or evening, go on another slow boat ride for 2 or more hours back to Jaguar Suites. This journey back to the flotel can be done during the late afternoon while there's still sun light, but the wolves often appear after sunset, which can delay the boat ride back. However, spotlights are used to navigate safely. Have a boxed dinner during the excursion.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jaguar Suites
North Pantanal
Today is dedicated to searching for jaguars, birds, and other wildlife during morning and afternoon boat rides, each lasting around 4 hours. In the Pantanal, the exposed river banks and open spaces make it easier to spot and observe the normally shy and mysterious jaguars, especially when the water levels are low. A wide diversity of other animals may also be seen, both in the water and along the shore. Look for caimans, capybaras, giant otters, iguanas, Jabirus, and more. Return to the flotel in the evening for another lecture.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jaguar Suites
Cuiaba
Have an early breakfast at the flotel before boarding a slow boat toward Porto Jofre. Go on a 5.5-hour drive along the Transpantaneira back to Cuiabá. Our hotel is located in the center of Cuiabá and near the Mãe Bonifácia State Park, where you can explore on your own to observe and photograph more nature and wildlife, including black-tailed marmosets. Mãe Bonifácia is open from 6 am to 6 pm, but entrance is only permitted until 5 pm.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel Deville
Depart
Begin the journey back home at Cuiabá International Airport. After a layover in São Paulo, fly back to the U.S. Today's services only include transfers with no guide. Check-out is at 12 pm.
Breakfast- included
What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • All tips
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Water refill station during transfers
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Trip cancellation coverage
  • Items of personal nature

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least the duration of your stay, with at least two blank visa pages, to enter Brazil. As requirements are subject to change at any time and without notice, we recommend a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.

U.S. citizens must also obtain a visa for entry into Brazil. An electronic visa is the easiest option for most travelers and can be obtained online at https://brazil.vfsevisa.com. To apply, you will be prompted to create an account and provide your passport information. You will need a color scan of the bio page of your passport with the MRZ code fully visible, as well as a passport-style photo, i.e. a color photo with a white background, sized 3.5 x 4.5 cm (413 x 531 pixels). The eVisa fee is $80.90 and can be paid using a Mastercard or Visa credit or debit card.

Once your application is approved, you will receive an email with a PDF file containing your eVisa, which you should print and be prepared to show prior to boarding your flight and again upon arrival in Brazil. We also recommend saving a digital copy on your phone as a backup. The average processing time for eVisa applications is up to 5 business days; we recommend applying well in advance to account for any possible delays.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Brazilian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality. Also be aware that you are not permitted to apply for the eVisa if you are a Brazilian citizen.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Brazil.

Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Brazil, including the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul. Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas.

The CDC also recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Brazil.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to Brazil, including the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of mosquito bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses

The CDC warns that dengue fever is a potential risk in Brazil. Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which, as opposed to the Anopheles mosquito, is active during the day. Travelers are unlikely to contract dengue unless they are traveling through an area where there is an outbreak.

In addition, locally transmitted cases of leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported. The CDC recommends that travelers to Brazil protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

Other Nuisance Pests

In places with rich vegetation and proximity to bodies of water, you may encounter chiggers. These are mites that can superficially attach to skin and leave behind itchy red bumps that appear 3-6 hours after initial contact. Their bites are sometimes mistaken for those of bed bugs or other insects; however, unlike bed bugs, which tend to target exposed skin, chiggers look for skin folds or areas where clothing fits tightly—like the ankles, waist, underarms, elbow creases, and the back of the knees—to feed on broken-down skin cells. They are not known to transmit any illnesses in Brazil.

We recommend that travelers to the Pantanal protect themselves against chigger bites using the measures noted above. Additionally, if potential exposure occurs, we recommend showering and scrubbing skin with soap and hot water as quickly as possible. If that is not immediately feasible, promptly rub skin with a dry towel or cloth and place any exposed clothing in a zip-top bag until it can be washed. To treat any itchiness, we suggest over-the-counter anti-itch lotion and/or oral antihistamines.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

Print Resources

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. The rainy season in the Pantanal is typically between November and April. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe, water-resistant or waterproof, walking or hiking shoes or boots. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. You may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Not all hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, so you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics; batteries
  • Voltage converter and plug adapter
Holbrook is experienced with international travel and shares my values for conservation and sustainability.
- Jody Enck
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