Three nights with canoeing, horse riding, trails and observation towers
Araras’ classic four-day programme combines wildlife drives along the Transpantaneira with canoeing, horse riding, trails and a night safari.
The programme follows the lodge’s official four-day itinerary and provides an unusually varied introduction to the northern Pantanal.
The observation towers and extensive trail network make Araras particularly strong for birdlife and nature experiences across several habitats.
Day 1
Meet in Cuiabá and travel via Poconé to the Transpantaneira. The final 32 kilometres double as the trip’s first wildlife drive, with stops when animals and birds are spotted.
After check-in, take an introductory walk to the Garça observation tower, about twelve metres high, and learn about the lodge’s conservation work.
After dinner, take an evening walk beneath the southern stars.
Day 2
After breakfast, travel by safari vehicle towards the Clarinho River. Paddle gently downstream through riverine forest, with the possibility of seeing giant otters and many bird species.
After lunch, walk along the Bugio trail to the lodge’s highest observation tower, 25 metres above the ground, for sunset views.
After dinner, head out on a safari in search of nocturnal wildlife.
Day 3
In the morning, take a gentle horse ride through open fields, woodland and, depending on the season, shallow wetlands. The horses are accustomed to the environment and the ride is adapted to the group.
After lunch, walk along the Rondon trail towards the approximately 13-metre-high Tuiuiú tower, known for views over a jabiru nesting area.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 4
The final morning begins with a walk to experience the Pantanal waking up.
After breakfast, or after lunch depending on the confirmed transfer time, return to Cuiabá.
Araras has 19 rustic-style suites with a veranda and hammock. Facilities include a pool, restaurant, bar, reading room and three observation towers.
The lodge has worked with ecotourism in the Pantanal since 1991 and has a strong nature-guiding and birdwatching profile.
Moderate
The programme includes several walks, horse riding and canoeing. The pace is relaxed, but the ground can be uneven and conditions hot.
Guests who prefer not to ride should mention this before booking so that an alternative can be discussed.
Araras is about 132 kilometres from Cuiabá and is reached via the Transpantaneira. The lodge’s regular transfers may run at fixed times that need to be coordinated with flights and the rest of the itinerary.
The order of activities may change according to weather, terrain, water levels and the lodge’s overall planning.
Horse riding can be replaced or adapted for guests who prefer not to take part when the lodge programme and capacity allow.
Jaguar Express is normally offered in the dry season, approximately June to November, and must be booked in advance. It is a long full-day excursion with a road transfer to Porto Jofre and around six hours of boat safari.
Wild animals roam freely and sightings can never be guaranteed.
The programme can be booked on its own or combined with flights, hotels, Chapada dos Guimarães and other parts of a tailor-made trip. The exact inclusions and price are specified in SambaTravel’s proposal.
The Pantanal is warm for much of the year, but early mornings and winter days can be cool. Dress in layers and choose lightweight clothing in muted colours for excursions.
Long trousers, long sleeves and closed shoes provide protection from sun, branches and insects. Cameras and binoculars should be protected from dust, rain and spray during boat and canoe trips.
We help you choose the right length of stay and combine the programme with transfers, flights, hotels and other parts of your journey.