Price: US $4,500
Group size: 6 guests
Embark on the an amazing jaguar safari in Porto Jofre, the world’s best location for observing wild jaguars in their natural habitat. This adventure is designed to maximize your chances of seeing these magnificent cats while offering a unique experience staying in one of the boat hotels in the Cuiaba River, right in the heart of the ultimate Jaguarland. Over 7 days, you will explore the Pantanal’s remote rivers for extraordinary wildlife encounters with not only jaguars but also giant otters, tapirs, capybaras, and a stunning variety of bird species.
Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Porto Jofre (August 21, 2025)
Pickup in Cuiabá: At 10:00 AM you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred directly to Porto Jofre. The scenic 5-hour drive takes us along the Transpantaneira Road, a wildlife-rich stretch where you’ll see caimans, capybaras, and various species of birds along the way. We will stop for lunch on the way.
Check-In at the hotel: Our home for the tour will be a boat hotel, located right Cuiabá River. This accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms, WiFi, cozy communal areas, and the advantage of being in the best possible strategic location.
Evening Briefing: After settling in, your guide will walk you through the upcoming days and explain the plans for our river expeditions.
Day 2–6: Full day river safaris in search of Jaguars (August 22–26, 2025)
Morning Safaris: We’ll set out early each morning, navigating the Cuiabá River and its tributaries, including the Tres Irmãos River, where jaguars frequently patrol the banks.
We will search for jaguars hunting caimans or capybaras, swimming across the river, or resting on the banks. Porto Jofre is world-renowned for its frequent and often close encounters with these big cats. We’ll also have opportunities to observe other wildlife, such as giant otters, capybaras, and an abundance of birdlife, including kingfishers, herons, and Jabiru storks.
Afternoon Safaris: The late afternoon light is perfect for photography, a prime time for wildlife activity. Our guides are experts in spotting jaguars and know the best spots to increase our chances of sightings. Each day, we’ll explore different areas of the river system to find new opportunities and maximize our wildlife encounters.
Day 7: Departure (August 27, 2025)
Return to Cuiabá: Breakfast on the hotel and after we start making our way back to Cuiabá for your onward journey home.
Why join this tour?
North Pantanal is known as the jaguar capital of the world, with the highest density of jaguars anywhere on the planet. The big cats here are often seen along the riverbanks, sometimes within just a few meters of our boat, giving you unparalleled opportunities for close encounters and incredible photography. In addition to jaguars, this place is home to a variety of other incredible wildlife. Giant otters are frequently seen playing and hunting in the water, while tapirs, capybaras, and a dazzling array of bird species ensure that there is always something to see on the river.
Unmatched Jaguar Sightings
You’ll spend most of the time each day on the river, tracking them at peak activity times. Past guests have witnessed everything from stealthy riverbank hunts to intimate moments between mother and cub.
Boat-Based Safaris in Prime Territory
We operate directly from the heart of jaguar territory, giving you more time on the water and less time commuting. Our boat safaris are led by expert local guides who know exactly where and how to find the cats.
Comfortable Stay in a Floating Lodge
Enjoy air-conditioned rooms aboard a floating hotel, anchored in one of the best wildlife hotspots in the region. Wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys, spot capybaras from your deck, and relax in comfort after a full day of action.
Guided by a Wildlife Photography Expert
Your trip will be led by a professional wildlife photographer with deep experience in the Pantanal. You’ll get personalized photo coaching, composition tips, and real-time help to make every encounter count.
Inclusions
Boat Safaris: Spend most of your time on the water, with expert local guides leading the way.
Accommodation: Boat Hotel stay with air-conditioned rooms.
All Meals Included: Enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals on board the boat.
Transportation: Ground transportation from Cuiabá to Porto Jofre and back is included.
Expert Photography Guides: Led by highly experienced guides with extensive knowledge of jaguar behavior and Pantanal wildlife.
Accommodations:
The boat hotels on the Cuiabá River offer the best possible access to jaguar habitats, allowing us to get out on the water earlier than other tours and stay longer. This flexibility means we are in the perfect position to observe jaguars during their peak activity periods in the early morning and late afternoon.
Interested in this amazing wildlife experience? Get in touch!
If you’re passionate about big cats, thrive on close wildlife encounters, and want to elevate your photography in one of the world’s top jaguar hotspots, this expedition is for you. With exclusive boat-based access, expert guidance, and front-row seats to daily jaguar action, it’s a dream experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
Spaces are limited to just 6 guests. Secure yours now and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of the Pantanal.