While most Pantanal lodges promise wildlife encounters, Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge delivers them with the kind of consistency that has guests returning time and time again. The famous ‘Jaguar Express’ day trips down the Transpantaneira to Porto Jofre offer fabulous big cat viewing - and the guides will turn every excursion into a wildlife masterclass. The lodge itself is set in 3,000 hectares of private land in the heart of the world's largest wetland, and owners Andre and Jerneja have created something that feels more like staying with naturalist friends than checking into a commercial lodge. Highlights include farm-to-table dining with honey, milk, cheese and meat, all sourced on-site, and unparalleled wildlife viewing from the three iconic observation towers.
/-56.711477982234776,-16.512109585558534,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
Araras' sustainable design philosophy extends beyond eco-friendly buzzwords into genuine environmental integration. We're talking solar power systems, rainwater harvesting and an ingenious waste management system. What's more, 20 kilometres of suspended walkways protect the sensitive wetland areas beneath and the farm-to-table restaurant emphasises regional cuisine made from (mostly) on-site ingredients. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant and bar, and the three crown jewels: the 11, 13, and 25-metre-high observation towers. There are also after-dinner lectures for those that want to join, providing educational context for the day's wildlife encounters.
The rooms are all designed for maximum comfort without competing with the natural environment. All have air con, screened windows and ceiling fans – essential when you return after a long day exploring - and shared balconies with hammocks. Inside, the rustic décor is all about dark timber furniture and beautiful local textile that complement rather than contrast with the greenery outside. There are double, twin, and family options, with triple and quadruple rooms available for larger groups, plus three premium rooms for up to five people.
The twice-daily excursions, all led by expert naturalist guides, are comprehensive and fantastic! Horseback rides on docile Pantaneiro horses provide access to areas unreachable by vehicle, while canoe trips along the Clarinho River offer the chance to spot giant river otters and rare Agami herons. The famous Jaguar Express excursion is the ultimate Pantanal experience – a full day journey to Porto Jofre on boats specifically designed for jaguar viewing in the Cuiabá River system. Night drives reveal nocturnal species rarely seen during daylight hours, while forest treks offer close encounters with the incredible biodiversity that makes the Pantanal so special.
Climbing the 25-metre-high Howler Monkey Tower at sunset for panoramic views across the Pantanal, while birds fly in formation to roost in the nearby ‘tree of life’.
The 'Jaguar Express' offers some of the best jaguar viewing opportunities in South America and sightings of 5-6 cats just metres away from your boat are completely normal.
You're 132 kilometres from Cuiabá via the dirt Transpantaneira road, so the lodge and surrounding area will become your whole world for the duration of your stay.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Pousada Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Brazil trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Brazil trips featuring Pousada Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Brazil specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Pousada Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge start from around $380, or US$380, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Relish in the wildlife of the Pantanal’s remotest corners where jaguars rule & every turn reveals something new.
