Getting To The Pantanal

Getting To Cuiabá

The northern Pantanal (best for jaguars) is accessed via Cuiabá, capital of Mato Grosso state. Daily flights from São Paulo (2h) and Rio de Janeiro (2.5h). From Cuiabá, the Transpantaneira dirt road (150km) leads to Porto Jofre — either driven or transferred by lodge transport (4h).

• São Paulo (GRU) → Cuiabá (CGB): 2h direct (LATAM, Azul, Gol)
• Cuiabá → Porto Jofre: 4h by road (Transpantaneira)
• Lodge transfers usually included in package rates

Getting To Campo Grande

The southern Pantanal is accessed via Campo Grande, capital of Mato Grosso do Sul. Daily flights from São Paulo (2h) and Rio. Fazenda lodges are 2–3h by road from Campo Grande, with most offering their own transfer vehicles.

• São Paulo → Campo Grande: 2h (LATAM, Azul)
• Campo Grande → fazenda: 2–3h by road (lodge transfer)
• Corumbá (western gateway): accessible by bus from Campo Grande (6h)

Health Requirements for the Pantanal

Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul states — carry your certificate. Malaria risk exists in the Pantanal but is low compared to the Amazon — consult your travel health clinic.

• Yellow fever: vaccination required, carry certificate
• Malaria: low risk but prophylaxis recommended — consult doctor
• DEET insect repellent (30–50%): essential at dawn and dusk
• Dengue: no vaccine, use repellent consistently