Self Drive Bonito and Pantanal
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The Pantanal is a vast wetland area in western Brazil formed by the Paraguay river, which cuts across the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul (as well as western Brazil and northeastern Paraguay). There are two distinct seasons: the dry season from July to October and the wet season from December to March, when seasonal rains swell the pantanals main arteries and marshlands, temporarily inundating the hardened landscape, transforming it into a lush wetland area mottled with pools and lagoons. Each year, a myriad of creatures eagerly await this life giving phenomina and emerge as the floodwaters soak into the crusted landscape. During this period, the pantanals surface area increases to a staggering 200,000 km. Quite appropriately therefore, in past times the pantanal was locally termed Xaraés, meaning inland sea.
The Pantanal is one of the world’s great wildlife reserves, providing habitat for over 650 species of birds, (among which, the stately tuiuiu or jabiru stork, ibis, the Hyacinth macaw, emu and Toucan), 250 species of fish and 80 species of mammals (Capibara, tapir, giant ant-eater, giant otter, howler monkey and Jaguar are all common resident species). Other species include anaconda and caiman.
Inclusions:
- 6 Days Car Rental with Avis Rent a Car
- All accommodation
- 5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners
- Activities as per itinerary
Departure available on a client request basis
Day 1 CAMPO GRANDE – BONITO
Pick-up the rental car at the Localiza counter upon arrival at Campo Grande airport and start the 4-5 hour ride over excellent and all but busy roads to the village of Bonito. A self drive information package gives you all the necessary route information, including accurate descriptions and maps. Overnight in Bonito.
Day 2 BONITO (B)
From the range of possible tours we have selected 2 very rewarding ones: the Gruta do Lago Azul and the snorkling adventure in the Rio Sucuri. At 7:00am the guide will arrive at the hotel to accompany the travelers in their own car to the Gruta do Lago Azul. After the visit they continue to the visitor’s centre of the Sucuri river where the tour starts with a short hike through a forest to the source of the stream. Further downstream, after some instructions, go for a remarkable 1-1.5 hour float downstream. Overnight in Bonito.
Day 3 BONITO – MIRANDA (PANTANAL) (B – L – D)
From Bonito head north on a good gravel road into the southern Pantanal. After crossing the Miranda River twice, a small dirt road through forests and meadows leads to the Refúgio da Ilha. This ride will take some 2 hours. On the way a visit can be made to the Boca da Onça private reserve with its worthwhile short hike along 14 different waterfalls (the highest being 156 metres). This visit (entrance fee not included), takes at least 3-4 hours. Overnight at selected lodge.
Day 4 MIRANDA (PANTANAL) (B – L – D)
Discover the beauty of this unique eco-system on foot, horseback and by motorized canoe, accompanied by an expert local guide observing flora, fauna and yet untouched landscapes. Overnight at selected lodge.
Day 5 MIRANDA (PANTANAL) (B – L – D)
Discover the beauty of this unique eco-system on foot, horseback and by motorized canoe, accompanied by an expert local guide observing flora, fauna and yet untouched landscapes. Overnight at selected lodge.
Day 6 MIRANDA (PANTANAL) – CAMPO GRANDE (B)
Return to Campo Grande by road in 3 to 4 hours. Drop-off the rental car at the airport in time for your flight to the next destination.
End of our services
Food Code = B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner.
LHIDCGR001 *Please note, prices based on twin share, per person low season, 3 star rates. Optional tours not included and are at extra cost. The itinerary & pricing can change at any time due to availability & of activities. Please check our website for full terms and conditions*
More Information About Brazil:
Brazil – Brazil is a huge country of the superlatives. Brazil, a country of immense proportions and contrasts, has a mysterious attraction for many people. With a surface of 8,5 million km², Brazil is approximately as large as Europe and covers half of the South American continent. The climate changes from the permanent warm, tropic north over all sub tropic variants to the moderate south. Since the 16th century – when the Portuguese began to settle in the country – Brazil has always had a magic attraction for foreigners. First there was the gold and then rubber and coffee and today it is above all the rhythm and the exotic that attracts tourists. The Brazilians show a lot of happiness, kindness and spontaneity. The largest country in South America is a mirror of fascinating pictures.
More about your tour destination:
The Pantanal is a vast wetland area in western Brazil formed by the Paraguay river, which cuts across the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul (as well as western Brazil and northeastern Paraguay). There are two distinct seasons: the dry season from July to October and the wet season from December to March, when seasonal rains swell the pantanal’s main arteries and marshlands, temporarily inundating the hardened landscape, transforming it into a lush wetland area mottled with pools and lagoons. Each year, a myriad of creatures eagerly await this life giving phenomenon and emerge as the floodwaters soak into the crusted landscape. During this period, the Pantanal’s surface area increases to a staggering 200,000 km. Quite appropriately therefore, in past times the pantanal was locally termed Xaraés, meaning inland sea.
The Pantanal is one of the world’s great wildlife reserves, providing habitat for over 650 species of birds, (among which, the stately tuiuiu or jabiru stork, ibis, the Hyacinth macaw, emu and toucan), 250 species of fish and 80 species of mammals (capibara, tapir, giant ant-eater, giant otter, howler monkey and Jaguar are all common resident species). Other species include anaconda and caiman.
Visa Requirements for Brazil:
Australians are required to pre-arrange a visa, that will normally give you the right to spend 90 days in the country. For complete information about how to organise your visa, visit: http://canberra.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/tourist_visa.xml
