Overview
A conservation adventure
This two-week Brazilian adventure visits three fantastic lodges working to restore and protect three incredible ecosystems. Along the way, immerse yourself in traditional culture, meeting pioneering conservationists and encountering some of South America’s most incredible species.
After two nights in São Paulo, head into the Pantanal wetlands to Caiman Ecological Refuge, which has worked to rewild the landscape, making this the best place to see jaguars in the wild, along with giant anteaters, capybaras and more.
Then head to the Cerrado savanna to track maned wolves and spot macaws in a much-threatened ecosystem. End at a historic ranch in the Atlantic forests close to Rio, learning about an ambitious rewilding project and its harmonious ethos of traditional, sustainable hospitality.
Highlights
Trip highlights
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Full day with a jaguar research team
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Safari and culture in the Patanal
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Maned wolf tracking in the Cerrado
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Waterfall wild swimming and delectable cuisine at Ibitipoca
Inclusions
What's included
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14 nights of luxury accommodation
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Tours, experiences and wildlife activities
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Internal flights and private transfers
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Price per person based on two adults sharing
An unforgettable trip with a positive impact
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Community & Culture
Properties and experiences that uplift and empower local communities.
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Conservation
Supports wildlife projects, protected areas and ecosystem regeneration.
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Footprint
Lodges and camps chosen for their sustainability credentials and initiatives.
Days 1 — 3
São Paulo to start
Begin your Brazilian journey in São Paulo, getting an introduction to the sprawling city on community tour with a private local guide and getting time to venture out on your own.
Days 3 — 7
Jaguar spotting in the Pantanal
Brazil’s Pantanal region is an immense mosaic of wetlands, grasslands and woodlands, and is home to many of South America’s most fascinating species. You’ll be staying at Caiman Ecological Refuge, a pioneering 53,000-hectare cattle ranch that works alongside conservationists to use ecotourism to protect them.
During your time here, spend a full day with the Jaguar Habituation Team – thanks to their work this is now the best place in the world to see the continent’s enigmatic apex predator. On drives, walks and canoe trips you can also spot giant anteaters, capybaras, caimans, tapirs and giant otters, while learning about the traditional ranching culture of the region.
Days 7 — 8
Overnight in Brasilia
Spend the night in Brazil’s federal capital, a fascinating city founded in 1960 in the centre of the country. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 due to its modernist architecture and uniquely artistic urban planning.
Days 8 — 12
Explore the Cerrado savannah
The Cerrado is one Brazil’s largest, most important yet least explored ecosystems. From Pousada Trijunção, an intimate lodge in an oasis of 33,000 protected hectares, explore the extraordinary biodiversity of this great savannah with passionate guides on game drives, bike rides and boating trips, getting an insight into conservation success stories and challenges faced here.
Of the 251 mammal, over 850 bird and 482 reptile and amphibian species here, stand-out stars include colourful macaws and the long-legged maned wolf which are studied by scientists who work with the lodge.
Days 12 — 16
Communal conservation in Ibitipoca
In the scenic green hills inland from Rio de Janeiro, Comuna de Ibitipoca is an inspiring conservation and sustainability initiative that's reforesting native flora species to recreate wildlife corridors, all with an overriding ethos of locality and harmony.
The results are impossible not to fall for. Indulge in regional cuisine and the freshest produce, wander the forests on foot to bathe in waterfalls, ride horses on the ranch, head out on wildlife expeditions, unwind in the spa or sit back and enjoy the fabulous service.
Start your adventure here
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
