One of the last great wildernesses, the Pantanal is a premier destination for observing the wildlife of South America. This complex of ecosystems with rich alluvial soils is influenced by the savannas of Bolivia (Chaco) and Brazil (Cerrado), the Amazon and Atlantic Rainforests and maintains an amazing concentration and diversity of wildlife.

Viewed on a map, showing the rivers and drainage systems, the Pantanal reminds one of a giant kidney. Surrounded by escarpments of pre Cambrian origin such as the Serra de Bodoquena (south), do Amolar (west), do Maracaju (east) Chapada dos Guimarães (north), the descent from the plateaus into the Pantanal is an impressive ride or flight.

The typical place to stay in the Pantanal is a farminn, which means that apart from observing nature, you will also have a chance of learning about the rural way of life in the Pantanal and enjoy old-style hospitality. Operators are also developing Pantanal discovery tours which will take you from farm to farm on a horse, regional boat cruises and overland expeditions so you can explore a much larger area.