Award-winning eco-lodge on the Transpantaneira — the best-value all-inclusive Pantanal wildlife experience
Araras Eco Lodge sits at kilometre 32 of the Transpantaneira road — within the northern Pantanal but 120km short of the expensive jaguar safari lodges at Porto Jofre. The result is an all-inclusive wildlife experience of exceptional quality at significantly lower cost. The lodge maintains its own resident hyacinth macaw colony (the world's largest parrot, often visible from the breakfast table), a 50-metre observation tower, giant anteaters on the grounds, and expert guides for boat and walking safaris. Araras has won multiple sustainability awards and operates one of the most environmentally responsible lodge programmes in the Pantanal.
Comfortable standalone chalets with air conditioning, private bathroom, and screened windows overlooking the floodplain. Designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising comfort. 40 chalets arranged to avoid crowding.
Raised chalets with elevated views over the surrounding floodplain and better access to the observation tower. The preferred choice for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
Brazilian Pantaneiro cuisine — local fish, grilled meats, rice and beans, tropical fruits. All meals and non-alcoholic drinks included. The breakfast spread is generous and sets guests up for full days of wildlife activity.
Caipirinha and cold beer from the top of the 50-metre observation tower at sunset — the best sundowner location in the northern Pantanal.
The Araras Eco Lodge name (araras = macaws in Portuguese) reflects the property's most famous residents. The lodge has a hyacinth macaw nesting programme and the birds are habituated to the lodge grounds. Seeing the world's largest parrot at 5 metres from breakfast is an extraordinary experience.
Araras has been awarded multiple Brazilian ecotourism sustainability certificates. Solar power, water recycling, and local hiring programmes are all part of the lodge's long-term commitment. A portion of each booking funds the lodge's conservation research.
Jaguars are not reliable at Araras itself (km 32) — the primary jaguar territory is at Porto Jofre (km 145). However, Araras can arrange day trips to Porto Jofre, and jaguar sightings on the Transpantaneira drive between the two locations are possible.
Same conditions as all northern Pantanal lodges — 30–38°C in the dry season. Long sleeves, SPF 50+, and wide-brimmed hats are essential. The lodge is air-conditioned; the outdoor activities are hot.
📌 Transpantaneira km 32, Mato Grosso, Brazil
The dirt road in both directions from the lodge is rich in caimans, capybara, and hundreds of bird species.
The lodge can arrange day trips to Porto Jofre for guests who want to add a jaguar safari to their stay.
The nearest town for supplies and the start of the Transpantaneira. ATMs available here.
The lodge runs airport transfers on scheduled arrival and departure days.