
The Pantanal is the largest tropical wetland in the world, spread across western Brazil. It is a giant marsh of rivers, ponds, and grassy fields that flood with water for part of the year.
It is the best place in Brazil to see wild animals up close, even better than the rainforest because the open land makes them easy to spot. Visitors come hoping to see jaguars, caimans, and giant birds.
The Pantanal is one of the only places on Earth where you have a real chance to see a wild jaguar. These big spotted cats rest along the riverbanks and swim to hunt.
Millions of birds live here, including tall pink roseate spoonbills and huge blue hyacinth macaws. Their calls fill the air from morning until night.
In the wet season the land floods and people travel by boat, while in the dry season the water shrinks and animals gather at the ponds. Both seasons offer amazing wildlife watching.