Pantanal - Brazil

The Pantanal Complex, or simply Pantanal, is a biome, with 250 square kilometers in length, located in Brazil between the south of Mato Grosso and northwest of Mato Grosso do Sul, and also including the northern Paraguay and eastern Bolivia (which is called the Bolivian Chaco), considered as a "UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve."

Aerial view

Landscape observed by a student at sunset in Pantanal

Where to Go

There are several turistical attractions in the region, such as rivers with huge extensions and cities with charismatic and hospitable people. Bonito, is one of the nearest cities from Pantanal, where you can be amazed by the natural beauty from the place, and entertained as well by the touristic activities. To accommodate, there are some very good farms in the region thats works as resorts for turists (like "Pousada Aguapé") which are a importante source of income for many ranchers (the livestock is the main economic activity).

Pousada Aguapé

Entrance of Pousada Aguapé

Aricanduva river at Pantanal

      

Flotation at Rio Sucuri in Bonito city, one of the touristic activities.

What to Do

At Pantanal there are several interesting activities. At morning it's very nice to make a tour at the place, to see plants and animals typical of the region or go for a boat ride, but be prepared for the wind. After the lunch, you can go for a horse riding while enjoying the marvelous landscape and visual of the place. And there's nothing better than appreciate the sunset laying down on a hanging bed, taking tereré, a classic drink of Pantanal.

Horse riding in group

Horse riding

Boat ride at Aricanduva river

Safarí

What to Eat

The pantaneiro has the habit of waking up early, to read about his business in his food morning, has the habit of eating well. And at lunch, after the activities that use a lot of energy, and eat things like alligator meat, and piranha soup that is easily found at this region.

Alligator meat

What to Drink – Tereré

Tereré is a drink served in a gourd with yerba mate and iced water. It is very consumed by the pantaneiros, mainly before noon, after the completion of work morning. They also takes the tereré in the afternoon and before night, often on wheels conversations between families and friends.

Tereré being prepared

Tereré ready