2027 Ultimate Pantanal Wildlife Workshop: Atlantic Rainforest, Pantanal & South Amazon

A photographic journey through Brazil’s richest ecosystems

 

This photographic expedition combines Brazil’s greatest ecosystems in one seamless itinerary—immersive, diverse, and unforgettable. Designed for serious photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike, this 19-day journey begins in the Atlantic Rainforest, continues to Bonito’s macaw sinkhole, then you’ll explore Pousada Aguapé—Brazil’s premier location for viewing both Giant and Southern Anteaters, and into the Pantanal at Porto Jofre for five days on the Cuiabá River tracking Jaguars and Giant Otters from private skiffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter Hyacinth Macaws, Toucans, Tapirs, Capybara, Caiman, and monkeys, and photograph the Pantaneiros and their horses that define the culture of the wetlands. The expedition concludes at Jardim da Amazônia, where spring-fed waters and primary forest reveal a quieter rhythm of life—all captured through your lens under Cindy’s expert guidance.

 

Tour Price Includes: 18 nights lodging as specified, internal flights and transfers, accommodations in double occupancy, all meals as listed, bottled water, guiding, and all photographic activities as described. It does not include international airfare, alcoholic beverages, items of a personal nature, or gratuities for guides. Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage are strongly recommended.

Daily Itinerary Summary:

August 18 — Arrive São Paulo (GRU). Overnight near airport. Hotel: Pullman Guarulhos.

August 19 — Van Transfer to Trilha dos Tucanos (Atlantic Rainforest). Afternoon Photography

August 20— Full day photographing rain forest birds and hummingbirds.

August 21— Morning photography, Return to São Paulo. Overnight near airport.

August 22— Transfer to GRU airport for commercial flight to Campo Grande and then onward to our next hotel (Cabanas), afternoon exploring gardens and forest edges. Birds, monkeys and other wildlife.  Target species include: Amazonian Motmot, Blue-crowned Trogon, Plush-crested Jay, Azara’s Agouti, and Azara’s Capuchin.

August 23— Full day at a huge natural sinkhole, photographing macaws in flight. Other species include Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, raptors and Plush-crested Jays.

August 24— Morning photographing around the lodge and then onward to Pousada Aguapé.  Here, we will have excellent bird opportunities and this is THE best place in Brazil for both Giant and Southern Anteaters.

August 25 — Full Day photographing at Pousada Aguapé with private safari vehicle.

August 26 — Morning photography and a before lunch flight to Porto Jofre region, North Pantanal (Porto Jofre). Afternoon river cruise looking for Jaguars, Giant Otter and other wildlife via our private boat. 

August 27-30 —Four full days of boat outings for Jaguar, Giant Otter, Capybaras, Tapir and wonderful birds. 

August 31 — Transfer to Piuval Lodge. Safari-based photography

September 1 — Full day at Piuval, in the afternoon we will do a very special and exclusive session to photograph the horses and pantaneiros (cowboys) of the Pantanal.

September 2 — Depart after Breakfast and transfer via van and air to Jardim da Amazônia

September 3 — Jardim da Amazônia. Canoe, forest hikes, natural springs, and Amazon wildlife. This extraordinary location serves as a refuge and feeding ground for over 30 species of medium and large mammals.

September 4 — Another full day exploring Jardim da Amazônia

September 5 — Drive to Cuiabá for return flight to São Paulo (GRU).

Delta has flights departing at 10:50 pm, so we do not need to book a hotel for this night, as we should be back in plenty of time to catch a red-eye home.

To reserve your spot please email Cindy.

Cancellation Policy: Due to the significant financial commitments required for private charter flights and exclusive lodges all payments (including deposits) are non-refundable unless your spot can be filled. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.  “Cancel for any reason” insurance generally must be purchased within 14 days of making your deposit. This site is a helpful resource for comparing Travel Insurance plans. 

Exclusive Post-Workshop Reunion
As an added bonus, every group photo workshop includes a private Zoom reunion. This is far more than a casual check-in—it’s a chance to reconnect with your fellow travelers, share your ten favorite images, and receive thoughtful critique. The deadline to select and present your images provides the perfect push to complete your editing workflow, while the process of narrowing down to ten becomes an invaluable editing exercise in itself. Participants often call these reunions a highlight—like reliving the best moments, only this time with friends for life.