Jaguars of Pantanal Photo Tour

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About the Tour

Welcome to Jaguars in the Pantanal, Brazil Photo Tour

From June to October, the Pantanal in Brazil—the world’s largest tropical wetland—becomes the ultimate destination for jaguar photography and wildlife tours. During the dry season, falling water levels attract jaguars, caimans, capybaras, and hundreds of bird species to the riverbanks, offering exceptional opportunities to photograph South America’s top predator in its natural habitat.

This period is considered the best time to visit the Pantanal for jaguar safaris and wildlife photography. Clear skies, warm light, and calm waters create perfect conditions for unforgettable images of Brazil’s rich biodiversity.

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Date

July 14th - 23th, 2026

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Activity level

Easy

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Available spaces

Sold out

Itinerary

Day 1 | July 14: Welcome in Cuiabá

  • Airport Reception: Our team will meet you at the arrival area of Marechal Rondon International Airport in Cuiabá. A representative will provide a warm welcome and coordinate your transfer to the hotel.
  • Hotel Transfer: Once all participants are gathered, we’ll head to your accommodation in Cuiabá, where you can settle in, rest, and get acquainted with your surroundings.
  • Welcome Dinner: In the evening, we’ll share a special welcome dinner—an excellent opportunity for all participants to meet. During this gathering, your guide will present the itinerary details and explain what to expect in the coming days of the expedition. This is the perfect time to address any questions and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 | July 15: Departure from Cuiabá to the Pantanal

  • Journey Cuiabá – Poconé (100 km): The day starts with a drive along a paved road from Cuiabá to Poconé, the gateway to the Pantanal.
  • Journey Poconé – Porto Jofre (150 km): From Poconé, we’ll continue along the famous Transpantaneira Road, a dirt path known for its incredible biodiversity. Along the way, we’ll make strategic stops to observe and photograph local wildlife, including caimans, capybaras, and exotic birds.
  • Estimated Arrival Time: Around midday, we’ll arrive at our accommodation in Porto Jofre and enjoy lunch before embarking on our first expedition.
  • Boat Expedition (2:00 PM): In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a boat to explore the Cuiabá River and its surroundings in search of jaguars and other wildlife. We’ll spend approximately three hours on the river, observing animals in their natural habitat.
  • Return to the Lodge (5:30 PM): At the end of the activity, we’ll return to the lodge to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 3, 4, 5, 6 y 7 | July 16 -20: Jaguars and River Expeditions

Each day begins with an early boat trip to explore the Cuiabá River and its tributaries—one of the best locations to observe jaguars in their natural habitat. These magnificent cats are most active during the early hours, and with some luck, we may see them hunting caimans or capybaras, resting on the riverbanks, or even swimming.

Throughout the journey, we’ll also encounter other fascinating species, such as giant otters, capybaras, and a wide variety of birds.

  • Midday: Lunch will be served on the boat as we continue searching for local wildlife.
  • Afternoon: We’ll head back to the river in the softer sunlight of the late afternoon, creating ideal conditions for photography and wildlife observation. During these hours, jaguars and other animals become active again, and with our expert guides’ deep regional knowledge, we’ll navigate the best spots to maximize sightings.
  • End of the Day (5:30 PM): We’ll return to the lodge to relax, have dinner, share the day’s experiences, and recharge for the next day.

Day 8 | July 21: Safari at Piuval

  • Breakfast and Check-Out: We’ll start the day with an early breakfast, followed by check-out from the lodge.
  • Transfer to Piuval: Enjoy a scenic journey through the Pantanal as we head to Piuval Lodge, arriving in time for lunch.
  • Afternoon Safari: We’ll embark on a safari in the area, searching for giant anteaters and other fascinating species, including birds, hawks, caimans, and mammals. After the expedition, we’ll return to the lodge for dinner and to share the day’s experiences.

Day 9 | July 22: From Piuval to Cuiabá

  • Morning Safari (5:00 AM): Begin the day with a vehicle safari around Piuval, searching for giant anteaters and other local wildlife.
  • Breakfast: After the safari, we’ll return to the lodge for breakfast.
  • Second Safari: Following breakfast, we’ll head out for another vehicle safari to further explore the area and observe more animals.
  • Lunch and Check-Out: Return to the lodge for lunch before checking out. We’ll then transfer back to Cuiabá, where we’ll spend the night before flying to São Paulo the following day to continue our respective journeys.

Day 10 | July 23: Return Flight

Nine fascinating and fun-filled days captured in photographs and unforgettable moments, memories of our visit to a place where biodiversity knows no bounds.

It’s time to say “see you soon,” as we look forward to sharing a new adventure together.

After a comfortable rest and a delicious breakfast, we’re ready to head home.

Please confirm your flight schedules.

Extension option:

A representative from our team will greet you at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport.

Arrival in São Paulo and transfer to your accommodation.
Afternoon free to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

 

Extension: Day 11 | July 24: Transfer to Duko Birdwatching

Morning:
Breakfast in São Paulo.

Transfer:
4-hour drive to Duko Birdwatching.

Arrival:
Lunch at Duko Birdwatching.

Afternoon:
Hummingbird and local bird photography session.

Target species:

  • Red-necked Tanager
  • Green-headed Tanager
  • Blue Dacnis
  • Rufous-capped Motmot
  • Festive Coquette
  • Saw-billed Hermit
  • Pin-tailed Manakin
  • Golden-chevroned Tanager, and more.

Extension: Day 12 | July 25: Full Day at Duko and Surrounding Trails

Morning:
Photography session focused on hummingbirds.

Target species:

  • Festive Coquette
  • Saw-billed Hermit
  • Violet-capped Woodnymph
  • Versicolored Emerald
  • Glittering-throated Emerald
  • Spot white-bearded manakins in the area.

Afternoon:
Excursion to the Devil’s Cave.

Target species:

  • Spot-billed Toucanet
  • Pin-tailed Manakin
  • Swallow-tailed Manakin

Return to Duko for additional photography opportunities.

Extension: Day 13 | July 26: Transfer to Trilha dos Tucanos

Morning:
Early breakfast.
3.5-hour transfer to Trilha dos Tucanos, a site nestled in the Atlantic Forest, known for its feeders brimming with thrushes, tanagers, toucans, and hummingbirds.

Afternoon:
Photography session of local species.

Target species:

  • Saffron Toucanet
  • Green-headed Tanager
  • Olive-green Tanager
  • Red-breasted Toucanet
  • Spot-billed Toucanet
  • Plain Parakeet
  • Black-throated Grosbeak

Optional night activity:
Nocturnal observation at the feeders, which attract tapirs, crab-eating raccoons, and South American coatis.

Extension: Day 14 | July 27: Return to São Paulo

Morning:
Early breakfast.
Morning photography session.

Target species:

  • Magpie Tanager
  • Blond-crested Woodpecker
  • Yellow-fronted Woodpecker
  • Azure Jay
  • Crimson-crested Woodpecker

Afternoon:
After lunch, a 4-hour transfer to our hotel in São Paulo.

Extension: Day 15 | July 28: Return Home

Fourteen fascinating and enjoyable days captured in photographs and unforgettable memories of our visit to a place where biodiversity knows no bounds.

Time to say “see you soon,” as we look forward to sharing another adventure together.

After a comfortable rest and a delicious breakfast, we are ready to head back home.

Please verify your flight times.

Featured sightings

USD 5,250

Included

  • Double accommodation to share
  • Meals
  • Transportation from Cuiabá to Ciuaba
  • Water
  • Safari vehicle (Piuval)
  • Boat (Porto Jofre)
  • Expert photography guide
  • Local guide
  • Single room supplement: +USD 800
  • Extension + USD: 2600. Request this information

Not included

  • International and domestic flights and airport taxes
  • Souvenirs
  • Tours not mentioned above
  • Dinner night 1
  • Additional nights
  • Alcoholic beverages, snacks, and drinks not included with meals
  • Laundry service
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Tips
  • Any other services not specified in this document

General tips

To have a better experience, it is important to consider some key factors that will make your stay in Brazil more comfortable:

  • If you enjoy bringing souvenirs back home, we recommend bringing extra money to shop in the various localities we will visit (the local currency is the Brazilian Real). We suggest exchanging around 1,500 BRL (approximately equivalent to USD 300) at the airport. For any other expenses, we recommend using credit cards.
  • Insect repellent or anti-mosquito spray
  • Sunscreen
  • Long-sleeved clothing and a buff to protect yourself from the sun
  • Hat or cap
  • Flashlight (preferably head-mounted)
  • Fabric bag for wet clothes
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking shoes

Photographic equipment

As photographers, we know how challenging it can be to decide how much gear to bring, as we always want to pack everything to make the most of the experience. Below are our recommendations for the type of equipment to bring:

  • Wide-angle lens
  • Zoom lens, 200-600mm range
  • Rain cover for your equipment
  • Tripod
  • Flashes, if you enjoy night photography
  • Extra batteries and memory cards
  • Battery charger
  • Cleaning kit
  • Plug adapter if using international chargers

Clothing

In August, the Pantanal remains in its dry season, with hot days and relatively cool nights. Wear light, breathable clothing during the day, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, to protect yourself from the sun and insects. A hat, sunglasses, and trekking boots are essential.

For the cooler mornings and evenings, bring a light jacket or sweater. A lightweight raincoat is also helpful for unexpected weather changes. Opt for neutral-colored clothing to avoid disturbing wildlife and dress in layers to easily adapt to temperature changes.

Daniel Mideros

tour leader

He graduated in advertising career at the San Francisco de Quito University.

He worked on his career until 2017, since then he made the decision to live from his passion, nature photography. In the same year he started his own business, Photo Wildlife Tours, in which it is dedicated to wildlife photography tours, and conservation. In addition to other audiovisual projects.

In the year 2022 he became the first Ecuadorian to win a category of Wildlife Photographer of the Year, “Animals in their environment”.

Do you need more information?

"One amazing experience, Jaime and Daniel are exceptional teachers, they take care of all details and make the time so enjoyable. 
I was travel from another country and even when was my responsibility before the workshop all the logistic, Daniel took care of recommendations and all information worthy for the staying. 
They create this immediate atmosphere of friendship that I appreciate a lot. 
The places they choose where to show us, are awesome, the people they work with stick to their mission of conservation, teaching and sustainable development. 
I can’t wait to take another adventure with them."
Ana Loáiciga Costa Rica
"I first met Jaime when he guided my group in the Amazon in 2015. The experience and the amount we learned was phenomenal. Jaime’s knowledge and enthusiasm when it comes to conservation shows in every part of the experience. He is able to display the perfect balance between education and adventure. I would recommend his services and I hope to be able to experience his unique way of showing you South America again."
Blake Freeman Canada
"While co-leading a personalized trip to Yasuni, Jaime was extremely friendly and enthusiastic, enhancing the trip with his attitude almost as much as by all the snakes (and occasional caimans) he found for me, despite less than ideal weather. We’ve remained friends for the three years, and I’m keen to join Jaime on future adventures and take even more advantage of his knowledge of Ecuador’s species and his skills as a photography teacher, as the Yasuni trip allowed me to take some of the best reptile and amphibian photos I’d obtained in over a decade as both a herpetologist and a photographer."
Phil Bowles England
"Jaime you were the best field guide we could ever have asked for and you made the experience very memorable, comedic and insightful. We learned many things about the reptiles and amphibians of the jungle. You were great!!
"
Gioby Suero USA
"Photo wildlife tours transformed my trip to Ecuador from a cool trip to an unforgettable photography experience. I spent my first few days in Ecuador with various other tour guides and companies, and while I got good pictures with them, it was not until meant Daniel for my photo wildlife tour that I realized how incredible his tours were. I was able to get up close and personal with birds and other animals in ways that I could have only dreamed of previously. I was no longer shooting through tree canopy’s for washed out pictures of birds, instead I was taking the most gorgeous pictures I have taken in my entire life! The accommodations were well above my expectations, and the food was fantastic! I do not think I will ever book a photography trip with any other company if possible. Daniel not only helped me improve my wildlife photography technique, but he spotted for me so I never missed a shot, and helped me gain a better understanding of how to capture the best pictures possible. I cannot recommend his tours enough. He was able to tailor my experience to exactly what I wanted out of my time in Ecuador."
David Baydush USA
"Daniel from Photo Wildlife Tours plans the perfect trips, with incredible attention to detail offering the best services available. Searching for the top local guides for maximizing the opportunities of great photos, as well as offering the best lodging and meal options. The trip couldn’t have been better, if you’re an avid photographer searching for intense days packed with activity this is your best choice (bring plenty of storage 😂)"
Lior Berman Costa Rica
"Amazing with amazing people. I love this trip, everything was wonderful."
Sebastian Valverde Ecuador
"Very enjoyable trip photographing stunning birds in Colombia. Our guide Daniel was superb. He made great efforts to get me in the right place to get the pictures I wanted. He 'focussed' on me, not his own photography.He was also very helpful with my wife who is not a photographer. I am sure that I will travel with him again. 5star!"
Philip Marazzi UK
"This trip was amazing. So much wildlife and a extremely knowledgeable and fun loving guide! Can't wait to book our next tour with Jaime!"
Matthew Kirby USA
"I had a good time. The lodging was great as well as all of the food provided. Javier was knowledgeable and very helpful. He was able to provide us with plenty of locations to photograph a great number of birds. I would recommend this trip for anyone interested in bird photography."
Ona G USA
"We were very happy to work with Carlos as our guide. He is a highly competent guide and adapted to our needs, helping us get the best possible photos. We truly appreciate his willingness to adjust the plan to suit us, and I would certainly be happy to work with him again. The driver, Louis, is excellent — he prioritizes safety and drives very carefully on difficult roads. We never had any incidents. Carlos and Louis make a great team, and we had a lot of fun at the end of the day."
Teng Ma China
"Overall it was a great trip and we all got some great photos at the end and also learnt a lot from the trip, that will make our next trip better."
Junan Chen USA
"Very knowledgeable tour guide and great driver too. We saw everything we wanted including watching the condors from above which was awesome."
Xu Liqing USA
"Overall, the tour met the stated goals of finding and photographing birds, reptiles, and mammals in Ecuador. Our guide, Daniel, is an expert on Ecuadorian wildlife and knew the answers to any questions we asked. He is also very knowledgeable about the photographic aspect of the tour, including equipment, setup, and preparing guests for animal behavior, angles, and settings to achieve the best shots. My main desire was to create beautiful images, not just documentary photos, and Daniel proved to be an excellent teacher with great personal talent. He is also a very nice person with a great personality, sense of humor, and deep knowledge of his subjects. Safety was always paramount throughout the tour, whether photographing a viper or standing on a cliff to photograph the condor. Daniel did an excellent job tying together all the elements of a great photographic wildlife tour, and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a wildlife photography adventure in Ecuador."
Carl Waxman USA
"If it is a very memorable trip to shoot birds in Ecuador, I hope the next arrangement will be better! The bird guide Carlos is very professional and patient, thank you very much!"
Yuying Zhu China
"Very knowledgeable tour guide and great driver too. We saw everything we wanted including watching the condors from above which was awesome."
Wang Jun China
"Sebas really taught me a lot about photographing animals. It was very obvious from the beginning that he knew he wanted me to get better at shooting in full manual mode and he was very good at explaining the different aspects of photography. As a teacher myself I was very impressed with how he didn’t just tell me what to do to improve my photos, he guided me to figure it out for myself how to get more impressive photos."
Bert Austin UK
"I was on a 12 nights herping tour with herpetologist Jaime Culebras. I enjoyed every single part of the trip. Ecuador is an amazing biodiverse country. Jaime was a very respectful guide for both me and all the reptiles and amphibians we found. The food was so tasty. I visited Yasuni NP, Mindo and Canandé Reserve - all of this places were beyond my expectations. After that tour I can highly recommend Photo Wildlife Tours. I booked a new tour already. Can‘t wait to go…"
Daniel Doll Germany
"I traveled to Ecuador and saw more birds than I expected with photowildlifetours and Diche Mideros. Highly recommended."
Lenny Ferguson USA
"I had a wonderful photography tour to Chile and Brazil organized by Photo Wildlife Tours, led by Daniel Mideros. Every aspect of the trip was very thoughtfully planned and executed to optimize my time there. Daniel worked extra hard to ensure that I got the best sighting and great photographic opportunities. He also gives immense support on the field on both technical side of photography as well as post processing and presentation. I got a lot out of this tour, which will help me in my own journey of photography."
Kriti Waila Dubái