Highlights
Highlights
Jaguar Photo Safari - Northern Pantanal
August 3 - 13, 2023
HIGHLIGHTS
The world-famous Pantanal offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. Photo Quest Adventures will take their photographers to the Jaguar Kingdom into the depths of Pantanal, in search of this elusive cat along the rivers.
We have timed this Quest for the dry season, so birds are concentrated in the areas where there is still standing water. The feeding frenzies of hundreds of herons, ibis, storks, terns, screamers, jacanas, vying with dozens of hungry caiman offer truly unforgettable spectacles and amazing photo-ops. Join our small group wildlife photography tour as we seek opportunities to photograph wild Jaguars, birds and other animals native to the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands.
Most of the jaguar photography will occur from our small, speedboats where we'll have only three photographers per boat to get us to the jaguar action quickly with space for gear and room to get great images.
We will be cruising the shorelines of the major rivers and the side channels, where jaguars may be resting, hunting, or lying about in the brush or under a tree. Boats are always out on the river searching and when a jaguar is spotted our boats will be alerted and we'll head to the jaguar.
You will have an amazing experience filling up your camera with breathtaking photographs of the wonders and abundant wildlife and scenics of the Pantanal.
explore
Tour timed for Pantanal dry season dates—and the best possibility for spectacular jaguar images
Our main focus is photographing Jaguars, but there is other amazing wildlife around these rivers, such as Spectacled Caimen, Hyacinth Macaws, Giant River Otter, Toco Toucans, Black-collared Hawks
discover
Our experience acquired during years tracking Jaguars in the Pantanal allows us to take you to the best areas of this huge Reserve to watch and photograph these elusive cats
Accommodation at simple hotels, chosen for their cleanliness, coziness and fantastic food
learn
Five full shooting days for jaguar photography with only 3 photographers per boat
Itinerary
Itinerary
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
August 3: Travel to Cuiaba, Brazil (CGB)
Board your overnight flight from the USA to Cuiaba, Brazil (CGB).
August 4: Arrival Intl. Airport of Cuiaba and transfer
Meet our guide upon arrival at the International Airport and transfer to Hotel in Cuiaba. Gran Odara or DeVille.
August 5: Early morning breakfast. Transfer to the Pantanal.
Drive to the Hotel Pantanal Norte Hotel, with possible stops to photograph along the route, such Marsh Deer and Anacondas crossing the road. We will do our best to arrive at the next location, still with chances to photograph a resident flock of Hyacinth Macaws. Possibly, the best flock of the entire Pantanal to be photographed, since they are used to the public, on a daily basis.
After lunch we will do our first boat ride on our Quest to photograph Jaguars.
Our location has a wonderful lake with giant water lilies and is also the best spot to photograph sunset. Overnight Hotel Pantanal Norte. (B,L,D)
August 6 - 9: Cuiabá River- Quest to photograph Jaguars
We will have four full days devoted to the boat safaris on the Cuiabá River and its tributaries, in order to maximize our chances of watching and photographing Jaguars, Giant River Otters and a realm of wildlife in the Meeting of the Waters State Park. Our outings will always be during the day, from sunrise to 11.30am and after a short lunch break in the afternoon until sunset. (B,L,D)
August 10: Morning boat ride. Lunch and transfer to Hotel Pantanal Mato Grosso. Overnight.
August 11: Morning boat ride. Lunch. Transfer to Piuval Lodge. Overnight Piuval Lodge.
August 12: Morning safari. Transfer to the airport in Cuiaba. Overnight Hotel Gran Odara or DeVille.
August 13: Fly back to the USA
Itinerary is subject to change.
Lodging
Lodging
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
Porto Jofre
Hotel Pantanal Norte
Cuiabá
Mato Grosso Palace
Quest Leaders
Quest Leaders
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
ADAM JONES
Adam has been photographing for over 30 years and has worked as a full time nature and travel photographer for the past 19 years. He travels extensively around the world leading his own photography tours and workshops. As a tour leader, he is widely known for his friendly practical nuts and bolts approach to solving problems in the field and sharing his enthusiasm and expertise with others.
Adam's award-winning images are widely published in magazines, posters, calendars, books, and in national advertising campaigns around the world for clients such as Canon, Ford, Eddie Bauer, Miller Beer and Honda.
Adam is recognized world wide as an outstanding stock photographer with his images represented by Getty Images, Corbis, Visuals Unlimited, Photo Researchers, and Danita Delimont Stock Photography. His work sells for editorial and commercial uses in over 50 countries. Adam's images are also featured in seven coffee table books.
Adam teaches photography workshops around the world helping students reach their full potential in the exciting world of digital photography. Considered to be one of the elite photographers in the world, Adam is proud to be sponsored by Canon as an "Explorer of Light." Adam is noted for his enthusiastic down to earth approach and his ability to communicate effectively with all skill levels.
MIRJAM EVERS
Mirjam is a New York City based travel photographer specializing in international environmental portraiture, landscape photography and adventure images. Born and raised in the Netherlands, she has photographed in more than 75 countries, including many of the most exotic places in the world. Mirjam's photographs are indicative of her unique capacity to personally connect with diverse cultures and communities. Her eye for location lighting is highly stylized and works to illustrate and heighten the unique characteristics of each international locale. She is able to transcend cultural and language barriers with an intangible spirit that is conveyed in every image. Her work has appeared in AFAR, The New York Times, AARP, Outdoor Photographer, PDN, American Photo, Popular Photography, Digital Photo, Departures, MSN Travel.
Facts
Facts
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
About PANTANAL
Stretching across the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul (also spilling into Bolivia and Paraguay) the Pantanal is the world's largest inland wetland area. The Pantanal's open spaces offer the best opportunities for spotting animals in their natural habitats in Brazil.
It contains the headwaters of the region’s two major river systems, the Cuiabá and the Paraguay rivers. The Pantanal offers a glorious abundance and diversity of vegetation and animal life, in particular the jaguar, draw visitors from all over the world.
The Pantanal UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the world’s largest freshwater wetland and is the best place in South America for spotting wild animals and one of the best places in the world to see birds. In June, at the end of the wet season, when sheets of water have reduced, wildlife concentrates around the small lakes or canals and there is nowhere else on earth where you will see such vast numbers of birds or caimans. Only the plains of Africa can compete for mammals, and chances of seeing jaguar or one of Brazil’s seven other species of wild cats are greater here than anywhere in the continent.
Besides Jaguars, the Pantanal attracts dense populations of animals that feed and breed along its waterways, including: giant anteaters, blue-and-gold hyacinth macaws, capybaras and tapirs, giant river otters, the rare and endangered maned wolf, massive anacondas and the ubiquitous caiman.
The wetland also provides habitat for more than 650 bird species, including cormorants, egrets, herons, hyacinth macaws, ibis, jabiru storks and roseate spoonbills.
About the Jaguar
The jaguar is the strongest and biggest cat species of America. it has a solid build, mostly yellow or tan with black spots and has strong characteristics such as big head and strong jaws. Its paws are relatively short but powerful. It uses its tail for balance when jumping. With some individuals the mid section of the back has black spots or a solid black line. 6% of the jaguar has a colour differentiation, also called melanistic jaguar. The melanistic jaguar seems all black but in bright sunlight you sometimes still see some spots.
Their eyes have round pupils and they are very capable of seeing in low light conditions. they can reach up to 30 inches in height at the shoulders and approximately 75 inches in length. The weight differs from male and female and varies between 75-200 lbs. In the wild they can become between 12- 20 years of age.
Bird Watching
The Pantanal is one of the best places on Earth for bird watching. What makes this place especially attractive for birding is the high visibility and easy observations. All sorts of exotic birds display in an extraordinary natural environment replete with rich wildlife and fabulous landscapes. Brazil Nature Tours offers amazing trips providing customized attendance for birders, supported by specialized leaders and experienced native guides, but also comfortable accommodations, well-coordinated operations and excellent food to complement a terrific birding tour in Pantanal.
THE CUISINE
The richness of the Brazilian Culture is often shown on its traditional cuisine. The passion for flavor and the ingredients brought from immigrants add up to recipes that show how passionate and intense the Brazilian people are.
In the remote region of Mato Grosso, the traditional cuisine has a combination of the colors and flavors of the Cerrado. The Pantanal Matogrossense plays an important part, as the fish found in the area are used in most dishes.
The most common side dishes include: rice, beans and ‘Farofa de Banana’ (made of plantains and mush of manioc flour). ‘Caldo de Piranha’ (piranha broth) is also a mandatory dish, along with ‘Mojica’ (fish stew), ‘Filé de Pintado’ (catfish filets), ‘Moqueca de Pintado’ (spicy piranha soup),and ‘Ventrecha de Pacu’ (fried ribs of ‘Pacu’ fish).
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
Easy. The Pantanal is totally flat. Some photography will be done by foot, some by boat, and a bit by vehicle.
Unlimited drinking water is available from large water coolers. Please bring permanent drinking bottle to refill at no cost, thus eliminating plastic waste!
CLIMATE
The Pantanal averages annual rainfall of 1,000-1,400 mm (39-55 inches). The average temperature in the Pantanal is 77 degrees. Visitors need to be aware that the temperatures may fluctuate from 45 to 104 F. The best time of year to visit is during dry season.
This tour takes place in the dry season, which is also winter in Brazil. It is usually very sunny. However, cold fronts are not unusual in the Pantanal this time of year, and the temperature can sometimes drop to around 45°F (7°C) in the early morning. Since part of the time in the Pantanal is spent on fast boats, it is important to bring cold weather gear just in case.
ACCOMMODATION
Very good to excellent, all have private, en-suite bathrooms, full-time hot water, fans, and air conditioning. Electricity is available everywhere 24 hours a day. Wi-fi is usually available but it is often slow and usually only works in certain areas of the lodge.
Currency
The currency in Brazil is the Real(R$. Carr some US cash, and the rest in ATM or credit cards. Travelers checks are not recommended as they can be difficult and time- consuming to cash. Make sure your US bills are crisp and clean. Worn, tattered, or torn bills may not be accepted.
Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and shops, and ATMs are widely available. To use an ATM internationally, you must have a four-digit PIN. If you plan to use your credit cards, inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card abroad.
Wifi
Email access is available at all of our hotels.
STAYING HEALTHY
Don’t brush your teeth with tap water; use bottled water, and don’t use ice in your drinks unless you are sure it was made with treated water. When in doubt, ask your guide for instruction.
GEAR
A long telephoto lens (500 or 600mm) or a good 300 or 400mm with a teleconverter is recommended for smaller birds, but is usually overkill for Jaguars, where a 300mm (with full-frame DSLR) or a high-end zoom is ideal. There is usually so much light that tripods are rarely essential for sharpness, but of course can be helpful to hold your heavy gear so you don’t have to. Lighting is harsh towards the middle of the day, so fill flash can help mitigate strong shadows.
Passports/VISA
A valid passport is required for your trip. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Brazil. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say “Visas” at the top. It is a good idea to carry photocopies of your passport for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.
US citizens do not need a visa for Brazil.
Northern Pantanal
To get to northern Pantanal, you will fly to Cuiaba, the capital of Mato Grosso.
From Cuiaba you will transfer about 60 miles to Pocone. From there, we will have to take the Transpantaneira highway into northern Pantanal. Keep in mind that most of the Pantanal is inaccessible by road, and the Transpantaneira is actually one of your best options, even though it is narrow and dusty. However, you get to be immersed in the wildlife from the get-go, with many animals and birds along the Transpantaneira.
When we go down the Cuiaba River, you will enter the region with the largest jaguar population in the world. There is no better place to watch for jaguars, as they are used to boat sounds here and they completely ignore you as they hunt or relax in the sun.
Telephone
The international dialing code for Brazil is 55. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use.
PACKING SUGGESTIONS
CLOTHING
2-3 pairs of light colored field pants (think REI, Columbia, Patagonia or like).
2-3 long sleeve field shirts as sun protection during daytime and as mosquito protection in early morning, late afternoon and after dark (like brands above).
1-2 cotton t-shirts or polo shirts per day
2 pairs of white cotton socks tall enough to tuck pants into (most useful during forest walks)
1 pair of sneaker/walking shoes (lightweight and dry fast)
1 pair waterproof sandals, flip-flops or Crocs (to take on boat rides if it rains)
Windbreaker for cutting the cool wind during early morning and evening boat rides
Rain poncho/loose-fitting rain suit, as serious rain occurs in any month
bring med down coat, mittens, winter hat for rare cold fronts
Bathing suit
Sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hat with stiff front brim (hat must not fly off in the wind)
MISC
Water bottle to refill (Nalgene or metal)
Day pack/small backpack to hold cameras water bottle, etc.
Insect repellent containing DEET
Personal toiletries and medications
Small flashlight
3 Large plastic bags
$100-$500 U.S. per person to pay bar bills etc.
Time Zone
Brazil is 5 hours ahead of California and 2 hours ahead of New York.
ELECTRICITY
Brazil uses 110/127-volt and 220-volt current. Bring a converter and plug adaptor kit for appliance use.
Quest Gear
Quest Gear
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
Recommended gear
Computer / Digital Accessories
Portable hard drives
Card reader
All cables for drives, computer, card readers, storage devices, etc.
Power converters/adapters for all international quests
Other
Cover or large zip-lock bag for camera for shooting in the desert
Sturdy tripod (carbon fiber)
Cable release (for night shots)
Small headlamp and flashlight
Your camera’s manual
Camera Gear
2 DSLR bodies (that you know well and work)
Monopod for support on and off the boat
Polarizer filter(s)
Batteries and charger, memory cards, USB drive/stick to transfer image to free up memory cards.
Flash (optional)
Binoculars
Waterproof bag to cover camera & bodies when it rains
Lenses
Telephoto 400-600mm lens
Zoom in the 100-400mm range
16-35mm wide angle lens
Lens hoods for all lenses
Lint-free cloth to clean lenses and blower ball for dust
Pricing
Pricing
JAGUAR PHOTO SAFARI - NORTHERN PANTANAL
August 3 - 13, 2023
Cost per person
$8,995 from from Cuiabá, Brazil based on double occupancy.
Limited to 8 participants.
Not included
Flights
Extra accommodation and meals
Travel insurance
Extras in hotels such as laundry service, minibar, room service, telephone calls, and personal items
Optional tips to the tour leader
Excess luggage charges
Additional drinks apart from those included
Alcoholic beverages
Excursions not included in the tour itinerary
Other items or services not specifically mentioned as being included
Included
All transfers
English-speaking wildlife guide
Accommodation based on double occupancy
Three meals per day
Excursions (boat safaris, overland safaris, walking safaris, night safaris)
Wi-fi where present
We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
For the health and safety of our travelers, proof of vaccination or a negative PCR viral COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of departure is required. We urge everybody to get vaccinated asap. It is mandatory to have "Cancel for Any Reason" travel insurance on all of our trips.
COVID-19 Update: February 2, 2022 - Proof of Vaccination is required for Travel with Photo Quest Adventures.
As worldwide travel has resumed (albeit not in all destinations), our intention is to operate different photography tours throughout 2022, as conditions permit. At all times, however, the well-being of our guests and staff will continue to be our highest priority. For all of our photo tours and workshops, CDC-approved vaccinations are required. (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson and Johnson vaccines). If you are medically unable to be vaccinated, you must bring a negative PCR COVID test with you taken not more than 72 hours from the start of the workshop. At PQA, we operate our photography workshops and tours with the safety of our participants and guides as our highest priority. Our staff, leaders and local guides are all vaccinated and boosted. Our PQA Staff members are also certified Covid Compliance Officers and will travel on each Quest to make sure safety protocols are implemented. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are taking extra precautions to protect our Questers, guides, and the communities we visit. We are closely following new developments and will adjust our response accordingly. Please read more here.