Southern Pantanal
The Pantanal of the great fazendas, simpler and more affordable, a few hours from Bonito.
Region
Mato Grosso do Sul, Central West
Recommended stay
2 to 4 nights
Best time to go
June to October
Getting there
Flight to Campo Grande, then 3 to 4 hours by road
Fazenda life in the heart of the wetlands
In the south, in Mato Grosso do Sul, you explore the Pantanal from large cattle ranches (fazendas) that now welcome travelers, around Miranda, Aquidauana or the Estrada Parque. The wildlife is just as abundant: caimans by the hundreds, capybaras, hyacinth macaws, jabiru storks (tuiuiús), marsh deer and anteaters.
Lodgings are smaller and simpler than in the north, which makes a stay more affordable. And the Southern Pantanal is only a few hours’ drive from Bonito and its crystal-clear rivers: the two fit naturally into the same trip.
The one real difference: jaguar sightings are rarer here. If that is your priority, choose the Northern Pantanal.
When to go
From June to October, the dry season concentrates the animals around water holes and keeps the dirt roads passable: this is the best time to go. From December to March, the rains flood the plains; some activities are then done by boat or on horseback, and the landscape is lush and green. April–May and November are in-between periods.
- June to October: dry season, wildlife concentrated
- April-May, November: waters receding or first rains
- December to March: rainy season, flooded plains
Months
Legend
Things to do
4x4 safaris
At sunrise and sunset, along the fazenda tracks and the Estrada Parque, to spot caimans, capybaras and marsh deer.
The Pantanal on horseback
With the peões, the local cowboys, across flooded grasslands, as people here have done for generations.
Boat and canoe
On the Miranda or Abobral rivers, for birds, otters and traditional piranha fishing.
Hiking and birdwatching
Jabirus, hyacinth macaws, toucans and birds of prey: the Southern Pantanal is a paradise for birders.
Night outings
By flashlight, to see nocturnal animals, from anteaters to crab-eating foxes.
Where to stay
Fazendas and pousadas
For fazenda life. Working cattle ranches with a handful of rooms, shared meals and activities included. Lodging is simpler than in the north and more affordable.
Bonito
To combine the two. To continue on to the crystal-clear rivers and caves, about a three-hour drive from the fazendas.
Combine with
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Combine
Our tours
Tours
FAQ
Can you see jaguars in the Southern Pantanal?
It is possible, but rarer than in the north. To maximize your chances, choose the Northern Pantanal, around Porto Jofre.
Southern or Northern Pantanal?
The south suits travelers who want Pantanal wildlife, fazenda life and Bonito on the same trip, on a controlled budget. The north is the choice for jaguar enthusiasts.
How much time do I need with Bonito?
Plan on two to three nights in the Pantanal and three nights in Bonito, with a flight to Campo Grande (or to Bonito, depending on the season).
Are there a lot of mosquitoes?
Mostly during the rainy season. Bring insect repellent and light-colored, long-sleeved clothing.
Tempted by this trip?
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