The Pantanal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest wetland on the planet, a pristine region half the size of France. It has the greatest biodiversity of the entire American continent. It contains the highest concentration of birds in South America and has a variety of plant species that creates a splendid mosaic of vegetation. In few other places in the world will you see as many wild animals in their natural habitat as in the Pantanal, certainly one of the best places on the planet to observe wildlife. Equally rich is the culture of the Pantanal, the Pantanal inhabitant lives mainly from livestock and is proud of its centuries-old cowboy tradition. This stay is an opportunity to experience the daily life of an authentic Pantanal ranch. Live a real experience of a Pantanal cowboy on large cattle farms. Brazil has the largest livestock population in the world. Since the mid-1970s, cattle ranching has intensified in the Pantanal. The states of Mato Grosso (north and south) are the largest producers of cattle with more than 30 million head. Cattle do not compete with the regional fauna and become an integral part of the landscape and the animals of the Pantanal fauna are constant companions during the work of the cattle on the farms. As the researcher Raquel Soares rightly said, "everything is integrated in the Pantanal plain. From the sunrise, through the animals that proliferate life to the rains that darken the sky, everything is in harmony.
HORSEBACK RIDING TRAIL RIDE IN BRAZIL
INDICATIVE ITINERARY *
Days 1 to 3: After the long journey, arrival at Fazenda Baia located in the most preserved region of the Pantanal, with an abundance of wildlife and nature. After settling in, go to the corral where the presentation of the troops will take place following the Pantanal tradition by organizing the horses "in line". You stay the next 3 nights in this traditional Pantanal farm with about 16,000 acres and 4,000 heads of cattle. In this farm you will have the opportunity to become a Pantaneiro for one or two days. You will be in the real work of the farm with the cattle, a real life experience. Expect surprises because at each time of the year there are different tasks to be performed in the daily routine of a Pantanal cowboy: separating the calves, caring for the cattle, tying, gathering the cattle, changing the cattle from wintering or farm as in a cattle drive. And there are unforeseen events because Nellore cattle are known for their strong temperament. You will spend an average of 5 to 6 hours a day in the saddle. During these days you will have the opportunity to see many species of birds and animals that inhabit this region and live the legitimate traditions of the Pantanal. At the end of the day you will need to rest in order to face the heavy workload of the next day, so you will have good accommodation and good food. The rhythm of the activities is dictated by nature, which does not prevent the livestock from observing all the necessary management that over time have been adjusted to be carried out in harmony with the energy balance and sustainability of the region; 270 years of sustainable activity.
Day 4: Early departure for a full day of horseback riding, along the banks of the Vazante Castle. About 6 hours to Fly Camp Refuge Primavera, which as its name suggests, is a wooden bush camp in the middle of the Pantanal. Tonight you will have a unique experience sleeping in a hammock* with lit lanterns. The refuge has a comfortable infrastructure: hall with mosquito nets to protect against insects, 2 bathrooms and a kitchen. * it is very pleasant to sleep in hammocks under a fixed roof, for those who do not like this, we can provide a mattress (to be reported when booking the ride).
Day 5: You wake up to the sound of birds in the trees around the lodge. After an early breakfast, depart to Fazenda Eldorado (or Fazenda Barranco). You drive along the beautiful landscape of Vazante Castelo, where you can enjoy the lush flora and fauna of the Pantanal with incredible and untouched landscapes. Arrive for a late lunch. To round off this great experience, you spend your last 2 days on a farm right on the banks of the Rio Negro River. On this farm, you may have the rare opportunity to witness the morning fishing of a family of giant otters at dawn, observe the mating ritual of alligators and, with luck and patience, look into the eyes of the largest feline in the Americas: the jaguar. Afternoon, sailing or canoeing, dinner and overnight at Eldorado or Barranco Lodge.
Days 6 and 7: The farm is located in one of the most preserved and wild areas of the Pantanal, on the banks of the Rio Negro. We recommend, in addition to horseback riding, to take a boat and/or a canoe. In addition to the natural beauties, you will be able to observe wildlife that is more difficult to find on horseback, such as the rare opportunity to witness the morning fishing of a family of giant otters, to observe the mating ritual of alligators and, hopefully, the jaguar too. With your camera or mobile phone, you will be able to make a video worthy of National Geographic documentaries! As you explore the Rio Negro, you will discover its white beaches, where caimans warm themselves in the sun. Meet the neotropical and giant otters that inhabit its intricate meanders. Five different species of kingfishers patrol its margins. The Chaco chachalacas call in duet to attract attention to themselves. The absence of other boats on this river makes it a unique and private experience. During this silent descent, you can come across parrots in flight, toucans drinking water, banks covered with holes where red-tailed jacamars, swallows and tegus live, families of capybaras grazing peacefully, howler monkeys carrying their young from branch to branch and huge groups of white-lipped peccaries swimming across the river and, with a little luck and patience, you can look into the eyes of the largest feline in the Americas: the jaguar! As the saying goes, "behind every white-lipped peccary, there is a jaguar approaching". About 60% of sightings in the Pantanal are made by boat or canoe, in silence. You can also bathe and swim in the river and fish for piranhas. (Don't worry, we will guide you to where you can swim without any risk) Swimming in the dark waters of the river offers a unique experience.
Day 8: Depending on your flight schedule, you can still do some activities in the morning before returning to Campo Grande.
Photography: Only a few places on earth rival the Pantanal in terms of photographic opportunities. Everywhere you can spot a small velvet ant, a hyacinth macaw or a roaring jaguar. Breathtaking photos are guaranteed. Several professional photographers have chosen this place for some of their works.
* The itinerary can change due to weather conditions and availability on the ranches.
MEETING:
Day 1: At Campo Grande airport.
DEPARTURE:
Day 8: Transfer to Campo Grande Airport.
TRANSFERS:
Option 1 – Land Transfer by 4WD vehicles Campo Grande / Ranch / Campo Grande
Up to 4 passengers
Campo Grande / Ranch – 295 km / 5:30 h - US$480
Ranch / Campo Grande –6:00 h - US$530
Up to 6 passengers (+ 30%)
Option 2 – Combination Land + Air Transfers (via Aquidauana)
Campo Grande/ Aquidauana / Ranch
4 x 4 + Single engine aircraft (up to 3) US$1420 – 2,5 hour
4 x 4 + Twin engine aircraft (up to 5) - US$1980 - 2,5 hour
Option 3 – Direct Air Transfer- Campo Grande / Ranch / Campo Grande
Campo Grande / Ranch
Single engine (up to 3) US$1790 = 20 kg per pax
Twin engine (up to 5) US$2500 = 16 kg per pax
Notes:
*Prices are linked to the Brazilian Real, in case of strong exchange variation or increase in fuel prices beyond expectations, the price of the transfer can be readjusted up to 4 weeks before departure.
*The maximum weight allowed for your luggage may seem small, but from our experience, it is more than enough in a tropical climate.
*You can leave your additional luggage at your hotel in Campo Grande or with the airline staff who will deliver it to you on your way back.
FLIGHTS:
Flights to Brazil are not included, as it is more interesting to book flights separately instead of paying agency commission on a full package. We are however at your disposal to help you find the best rates.
LEVEL:
You must be a competent rider, comfortable at all gaits. There is a wide variety of terrain to ride across; from wide sandy trails to forests, you must be used to riding in open spaces.
CATTLE WORK:
You can accompany the cowboys in their routine of working with the cattle. Moving the cattle to other parts of the farm (cattle driving), taking care of the calves or seeing the cowboys working in the corral. (* this will be done according to their seasonal work with the cattle) It is also a good opportunity to learn a little more about the culture and habits of the people of the Pantanal.
GUIDES:
You will be accompanied by an English speaking guide and a local guide. Both guides have good knowledge of the local area.
GROUPS:
3 to 5 riders + the guide.
HORSES:
The Pantaneiro horses are well mannered, forward going, sure footed and very obedient. The horses respond to neck reining and are used to a loose rein wherever possible.
TACK:
Gaucho saddles with sheep skin.
ACCOMMOSATION:
Nights 1, 2 and 3: Fazenda Baia
The lodge is located next to a huge floodplain called Vazante do Castelo. The main house of the lodge is very charming and spacious. There are communal areas inside and outside - whether you choose to lie in a hammock under a mango tree or read one of the many interesting books in the lodge, there are several ways to relax in this beautiful and serene environment. There is a TV room and a small shop at the lodge. The guest rooms (5 rooms in total) are comfortable and all include air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Night 4: Primavera Refuge
This refuge is located in the heart of the Pantanal and offers very rustic accommodation. Guests sleep in hammocks* located inside the main lodge, which has screened windows. Toilets are shared and there is no internet or electricity. At night, candles illuminate the lodge, giving it a special charm.
* It is very pleasant to sleep in hammocks under a fixed roof. For those who do not like this, we can provide a mattress (let us know when booking)
Night 5: Fazenda Eldorado
Nights 6 and 7: Cattle Farm
MEALS:
All meals are included, from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 7. Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the accommodations and lunches are taken on the trail. Breakfasts usually include bread, yogurt, jams, cakes and other treats, most of them homemade. For lunch and dinner, typical Brazilian dishes (regional and national) will be served. Beef and some vegetables and fruits are produced in season on the farms. There is a lot of variety and we always include vegetarian dishes. Fish from the Pantanal, such as dourado (golden catfish) and others are cooked in stew or even fried and served with cassava. Some specialties include: porco monteiro (wild pig), fried pig intestines, rice with pequi (a local fruit of the Brazilian savannah), “chipa” - a kind of cheese bread and sopa paraguaia (a typical corn pie that uses white cheese). At dawn, you can participate in the milking of the cows and later taste the milk caramel (dolce de leite). In the morning, riders can watch the preparation of “Quebra-Torto”, the hearty local breakfast of the Pantaneiros cowboys consisting of macarrão tropeiro (noodles with dried beef). Alcoholic beverages are not included in this trip but participants are welcome to bring their own if they wish.
2025 PRICE / PER PERSON *:
4 to 6 riders: 5865 € in 2 person bedrooms
2 to 3 riders: 6250 € in a 2 person bedrooms
1 rider only: 7175 €
* The price is calculated on the basis of $, so it can vary up or down at the time of your reservation.
THE PRICE INCLUDES:
Horse rental, guide, accommodation, meals, financial guarantee of your payments by our travel agency deposit.
THE PRICE DOESN'T INCLUDE:
Individual insurance, tips, personal expenses, drinks, possible visits, return transfers from / to the airport, booking fees flights to Brazil, all that is not indicated in "the price includes".
INSURANCE:
A civil liability and travel insurance (assistance/repatriation) are compulsory. A cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
A payment by credit card can make you benefit from its possible insurance (check your contract).
We offer to Europe Union, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway residents: the Chapka insurances.
Cap Security: full insurance with cancellation. Cap Cancellation: cancellation only.
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ALL THE YEAR - FLEXIBLE ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE DAYS
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Everything was perfect:
Team, organization, horses, accommodation ... and Cap Rando services !
A video of my great experience worth more than written comments: