Iguazú Falls

ARGENTINA/BRAZIL • IGUAZÚ FALLS

Walkway to a lookout point down into the Devil's Throat, Iguazú Falls © Shutterstock

IGUAZÚ FALLS ver 70m high with 275 cascades, Othe Iguazú Falls are amongst the 3 days/2 nights largest, most stunning waterfalls in the From $536 per person twin share world. Spread in a horseshoe shape over Departs daily ex Iguazú or Iguaçu 2.7km of the Iguazú River, which forms the Argentina/Brazil border, two thirds EX ARGENTINA Price per person from: Twin Single of the falls lie on the Argentine side, Gran Meliá Iguazú $958 $1774 while the most iconic view – the Devil’s (Melia Jungle View Rm) Throat – can be savoured from Brazil. Loi Suites (Studio Junior Room) $791 $1416 You can explore the Iguazú Falls from Mercure Iguazú Hotel Iru (Std Rm) $607 $1048 either country - both provide unique EX BRAZIL viewpoints of this natural wonder. Price per person from: Twin Single Belmond Hotel das Cataratas $1213 $2291 Another attraction of this landmark (Superior Room) is its unspoilt rainforest setting, which Wish Resort Foz do Iguaçu $680 $1152 teems with exotic birds and wildlife. (Premiere Room) Hotel Viale Cataratas (Luxury Room) $536 $884 Day 1 Iguazú Falls Arrival transfer from Iguazú (Argentina) or INCLUSIONS Iguaçu (Brazil) airports to your chosen hotel. Private airport transfers and tours as per itinerary, The remainder of the day is free to relax. Iguazú Falls lookout point © Shutterstock 2 nights accommodation with breakfast, naturalist guide, LAKE entrance fees to National Park. Day 2 Iguazú Falls ITAIPÚ Argentina: Experience a full day tour of the falls, IGUAÇU OPTIONAL TOURS where you can hike forested cliffside paths and PARAGUAY NATIONAL PARK Tour cost from: Per Person BRAZIL (BRAZIL) feel the tremendous spray. B Cuidad Foz do Iguaçu The Great Adventure (ex Arg) $137 del Este Cataratas IGUAÇU RIVERInternational Helicopter Tour (ex Brazil) $486 OR Airport Macuco Safari (ex Brazil) $269 Brazil: Enjoy a half-day walking tour with Bird Park (ex Brazil)^ $73 Puerto

spectacular vistas of Devil’s Throat. B P Iguazú Shared tours. Please contact us for details. A R A IGUAZÚ Day 3 Tour ends Iguazú N IGUAZÚ ^Bird Park includes entry fee to park only. Á FALLS

R NATIONAL PARK I Day at leisure or optional visit to Argentinean V (ARGENTINA) E or Brazilian side of the Falls (additional cost). R Iguazú Airport ARGENTINA Transfer to airport. Tour ends. B © Natural Focus

56 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES IGUAZÚ FALLS • ARGENTINA/BRAZIL

Iguazú Falls - 'The Great Adventure' © Shutterstock

ACCOMMODATION - ARGENTINA

Melia Iguazú © Melia Loi Suites © Loi Suites Mercure Iguazú Hotel Iru lobby © Mercure

GRAN MELIÁ IGUAZÚ LOI SUITES IGUAZÚ HOTEL MERCURE IGUAZÚ HOTEL IRU A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Formerly the Sheraton Iguazú, this renowned hotel Hidden in the jungle 15 minutes from Iguazú Falls, Situated in the heart of Iryapú Jungle just 5km has recently re-opened after a complete renovation the Loi Suites' 159 rooms have smooth timber from Puerto Iguazú, Mercure Iguazú Hotel Iru featuring modern, comfortable rooms with views of floors, sleek ensuite bathrooms and gorgeous offers 100 spacious and elegant air-conditioned famous Iguazú Falls. Located within Iguazú National views of their tropical surrounds. The hotel has a rooms. The hotel also features an outdoor Park, the hotel has a restaurant, 2 bars (one pool- restaurant, a pool bar, a fabulous outdoor pool, swimming pool, restaurant, fitness centre side), infinity pool, tennis court and day spa. day spa, gym and kids' playroom. including sauna and spa, as well as Wi-Fi.

ACCOMMODATION - BRAZIL

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas © Belmond Wish Resort Foz do Iguaçu © Wish Resort Foz do Iguaçu Hotel Viale Cataratas © Viale Hotels

BELMOND HOTEL DAS CATARATAS WISH RESORT FOZ DO IGUAÇU HOTEL VIALE CATARATAS A A A A A A A A A A A A The only hotel within the national park on the This family-friendly resort is located on an A cosy hotel in the heart of Foz do Iguaçu, the Brazilian side of the falls, this former Portuguese- 18-hole golf course in Foz do Iguaçu. It has 215 Viale Cataratas accommodates guests in 199 colonial summer residence is surrounded by verdant spacious, inviting guest apartments, 3 restaurants, non-smoking rooms with air-conditioning gardens and has 193 plush guest rooms, a pool, 2 an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, tennis court and timber floors. Facilities include an onsite restaurants, a bar, tennis court and day spa. and kids' club. restaurant, gym and an outdoor swimming pool.

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 57 BRAZIL Vibrant and fascinating Brazil is home to a rich mosaic of peoples, cultures and landscapes. Beautiful Rio de Janeiro lies on a coastline famous for its beaches, chic resorts, unspoilt islands and picturesque colonial towns like Parati. Wildlife abounds in the lush immensity of the Amazon Rainforest and the seasonal wetlands of the Pantanal. Highlights Vibrant Rio de Janeiro; Ilha Grande - forests, islands and beaches; UNESCO World Heritage listed Parati; Iguazú Falls; eco-lodges showcasing Brazil's biodiversity; the exotic wildlife of the Northern Pantanal; the wildlife haven of the Southern Pantanal; cruises into remote areas of the Amazon. Climate The vast size of Brazil means that the climate varies greatly from region to region. The coastal cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buzios and Salvador are tropical for most of the year with a dry winter and a humid summer, whilst Brazil's north including the Amazon and Pantanal regions have rain from Dec-Jun and a dry season from Jul-Nov.

76 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES Beautiful Br azil As an avid wildlife photographer, the focus of my trip was to encounter and photograph a jaguar. Incredibly, I saw not just one, but six jaguar in our time there! The Pantanal is absolutely thrilling and is most definitely for the adventure lover. Ian Llewellyn

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 77 BRAZIL • RIO DE JANEIRO CITY STAYS & DAY TOURS

Rio de Janeiro © Shutterstock ‘Christ the Redeemer’, Rio de Janeiro © Shutterstock

RIO DE JANEIRO CITY STAY 3 days/2 nights From $760 per person twin share orgeous Rio nestles between Gdramatic mountains, tropical forest and an alluring Atlantic Ocean coastline. Its beaches have attracted visitors since the early 20th century and the city is presided over by an open-armed statue Fasano Hotel rooftop pool © Fasano Hotel Ocean View room © Hilton Rio De Janeiro of Jesus Christ, visible from almost FASANO HOTEL HILTON RIO DE JANEIRO every part of Rio. Music and soccer are (IPANEMA) (COPACABANA) virtually a way of life for locals, who are A A A A A A A A A A known as 'cariocas'. A member of the 'Leading Hotels of the World’ Located on the beachfront of Copacabana, this INCLUSIONS consortium, this stylish hotel is the ultimate in property offers 545 guest rooms and a plethora of Private return airport transfers, 2 nights accommodation vintage chic. The 89 rooms feature retro designer amenities including two swimming pools, full-service with breakfast, private full day tour to Christ the furniture by Philippe Starck and Sergio Rodrigues, spa, restaurants, bars and fitness centre. The Redeemer statue & Sugar Loaf. as well as private balconies. The rooftop pool rooms are all elegantly designed with large windows HIGHLIGHTS boasts sensational views over Ipanema Beach. providing sweeping beachfront and city views. • Photogenic Ipanema and Copacabana beaches • Iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and its cable cars • The statue of Christ the Redeemer • Vibrant nightlife and sultry samba music • Home of the world-famous 5-day Rio Carnival ACCOMMODATION Price per person from: Twin Single Fasano Hotel (Superior Rm) $1498 $2884 Belmond Copacabana Palace (City View) $1208 $2298 Hilton Rio de Janeiro (Ocean View) $978 $1782 Sol Ipanema (Standard Rm) $852 $1584 Miramar by Windsor (Superior Rm) $846 $1574 Arena Ipanema (Standard Rm) $784 $1452 Windsor Excelsior (Superior Rm) $772 $1426 Arena Leme Hotel (Standard Rm) $760 $1400 Belmond Copacabana Palace © Belmond Sol Ipanema rooftop © Sol Ipanema OPTIONAL RIO DAY TOURS Tour cost per person from: Twin Single BELMOND COPACABANA PALACE SOL IPANEMA Full Day Golden Lion Tamarin $570 $1078 (COPACABANA) (IPANEMA) w/Lunch* A A A A A A A A A Full Day Petropolis w/Lunch $422 $774 This beachfront hotel has 90 smart, ensuite Rio by Night with Rio Scenarium $295 $553 This landmark Art Deco hotel faces Rio's Scheduled Half Day Favela Tour $95 $191 celebrated Copacabana Beach. It offers 239 guest rooms with air conditioning, smooth rooms and suites in total, furnished with fine timber floors and Wi-Fi access. Selected rooms DAY TOUR INCLUSIONS period furniture and original works of art. also feature ocean views. Onsite amenities Private tours to/from hotel unless specified. *Operates selected days only. Facilities include three restaurants, a piano bar, include 24-hour room service, a restaurant, gym outdoor pool, tennis court and fitness centre. and rooftop outdoor pool.

78 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES RIO DE JANEIRO CITY STAYS & DAY TOURS • BRAZIL

Rio de Janeiro mountainside favela © Shutterstock Rio Carnival parade © Riotur

RIO CARNIVAL 5 days/4 nights From $2072 per person twin share* ex Rio de Janeiro 21-26 Feb 2020 he Rio Carnival is the biggest party Tin the world. Held in February at the peak of the Brazilian summer, it is a fantastic spectacle of colour, music,

Miramar Hotel by Windsor © Windsor Hotels Arena Leme Rooftop © Arena Leme and the spirit of the Brazilian people. Attracting visitors from all over the globe, MIRAMAR HOTEL BY WINDSOR ARENA LEME HOTEL the main carnival parade takes place in (COPACABANA) (COPACABANA) the Sambadrome, with colourful floats, A A A A A A A A A costumes and hot samba rhythms, whilst At the southern end of Copacabana Beach, this Located at the far end of Copacabana Beach, all of Rio comes alive with street parties. upmarket hotel enjoys an idyllic seaside setting. the hotel offers contemporary beachfront INCLUSIONS The property has 200 elegant guest rooms with accommodation in one of Rio de Janeiro’s most Private return airport transfers, 4 nights accommodation on-call butler service, a Euro-Brazilian fusion relaxed neighbourhoods. The property has 164 with breakfast, 1 ticket to carnival parade sitting in the restaurant and a stunning infinity pool flanked by rooms and suites, restaurant, bar and rooftop grandstand at the Sambadrome including transfers (SIB). comfortable sunloungers. pool with breathtaking views. *Rates are provisional and subject to change. Single travellers on request.

GOLDEN LION TAMARIN TOUR

The striking squirrel-sized Golden Lion Arena Ipanema Hotel © Arena Ipanema Windsor Excelsior Hotel Superior Room © Windsor Hotels Tamarin is one of the most endangered primates on earth, with just 1,600 ARENA IPANEMA WINDSOR EXCELSIOR HOTEL individuals left in the wild. You can (IPANEMA) (COPACABANA) support the Golden Lion Tamarin A A A A A A A A Conservation Program (GLTCP) by This chic small hotel is located opposite a large Centrally located on world-renowned visiting their educational centre and leafy park, just a short stroll from Rio’s famous Copacabana Beach, the upscale Windsor forest trails a mere 2-hour drive from Ipanema Beach. The 136 well-appointed guest Excelsior Hotel has 233 comfortable, air- Rio de Janeiro. On this full day tour, you will explore the tamarins' natural rooms are light, bright and very modern, whilst conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi connectivity and habitat of lowland Atlantic rainforest shared spaces include a restaurant, gym, rooftop cable TV. Guests enjoy convenient access to a and enjoy a Brazilian regional meal. pool, bar and sundeck. restaurant, outdoor pool, gym and sauna.

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 79 BRAZIL • BUZIOS, ILHA GRANDE & PARATI PARATI 3 days/2 nights From $586 per person twin share Departs daily ex Rio de Janeiro urrounded by magnificent mountains Sand tropical coast, the picturesque town of Parati is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with some of the finest 18th century colonial architecture in Brazil. All motor traffic is forbidden inside the city to preserve its tranquil ambience. INCLUSIONS Scheduled return airport transfers Rio/Parati/Rio, 2 nights accommodation with breakfast, schooner excursion to islands near Parati including lunch. ACCOMMODATION Price per person from: Twin Single Pousada Literaria (Apartment) $954 $1550 Pousada do Sandi (Standard Rm) $610 $866 Porto Imperial Pousada (Standard Rm) $586 $782 Picturesque Parati Bay © Shutterstock POUSADA LITERARIA Tucked inside an immaculately restored colonial BUZIOS ILHA GRANDE townhouse, this boutique hotel offers 23 stunning 3 days/2 nights 3 days/2 nights suites, individually styled and full of character. All-day breakfast is available, while staff will happily assist From $488 per person twin share From $657 per person twin share with arranging spa treatments or optional tours. Departs daily ex Rio de Janeiro Departs daily ex Rio de Janeiro PORTO IMPERIAL POUSADA ust 2.5 hours' drive north of Rio, Buzios lha Grande is an unspoilt island paradise Set in a former merchant's mansion, Porto Imperial Jis renowned for its idyllic beauty, Iapproximately 150km from Rio. With Pousada is located in the historical heart of Parati. unspoilt beaches, sophisticated boutique protected Atlantic forest, beautiful All 43 air-conditioned suites at this charming hotel hotels and chic restaurants and bars. Relax beaches and small fishing villages, it is have access to a shared lounge area, outdoor pool, by the emerald waters, take a schooner perfect for hiking, diving, snorkelling or Jacuzzi, sauna and peaceful manicured grounds. cruise or explore the area by jeep. just relaxing at one of the intimate hotels. POUSADA DO SANDI INCLUSIONS INCLUSIONS Nestled within a building that once housed the Parati Scheduled return airport transfers Rio/Buzios/Rio with Scheduled return road and ferry transfers Rio to Ilha Mint, this hotel has 28 colourful rooms, a restaurant, driver guide, 2 nights accommodation with breakfast and Grande, luggage handling, 2 nights accommodation with English pub, day spa, gym and large garden. HD schooner excursion. breakfast, boat tour to Blue Lagoon and beaches or regular taxi boat to Lopes Mendes Beach. OPTIONAL PARATI DAY TOURS ACCOMMODATION Tour cost per person from: Twin Single Price per person from: Twin Single ACCOMMODATION Guided Walking City Tour (2hrs) $75 $151 Casas Brancas Pousada (Std Rm) $864 $1566 Price per person from: Twin Single Half Day Waterfall & Cachaca Tour $70 $70 Pousada Byblos (Std Rm) $488 $816 Pousada Asalém (Std Rm) $979 $1851 Pousada Naturalia (Std Rm) $657 $1153 DAY TOUR INCLUSIONS Private (city tour) or scheduled (waterfall and POUSADA ASALÉM Cachaca tour) to/from hotels. Located on the spectacular Bay of Abraão, Pousada Asalém features 6 airy rooms and a hilltop chalet with magnificent bay views. All feature comfortable lounge areas, hammocks and large floor-to-ceiling doors that open out onto a furnished outdoor terrace. POUSADA NATURALIA Designed to relax both body and mind, Pousada Naturalia offers 12 rustic suites with no technological distractions, close to Abraão village. The property is a mere 60 metres from the beach Seaside cobblestone street, Buzios © Shutterstock and a short walk into town, with the dense Mata Colonial architecture, Parati © Shutterstock Atlântica rainforest in its backyard.

Saaor

orto BRAZIL Sero

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN eo oronte tora arapar

RIO DE JANEIRO o arat Pristine coastline of Ilha Grande © Shutterstock ha rane © atra o

80 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES SALVADOR CITY STAYS & DAY TOURS • BRAZIL

Blue and Yellow Macaw © Shutterstock Pelourinho district, Salvador © Shutterstock

VILLA BAHIA OPTIONAL SALVADOR DAY TOURS SALVADOR DE This chic, boutique hotel consists of two adjoining Tour cost per person from: Twin Single 17th and 18th-century colonial homes located in Santana Show^ (Daily except Tue & Sun) $155 $261 Capoeira Traditional Experience^ $153 $252 BAHIA CITY STAY the centre of Salvador's quaint Pelourinho district. 3 days/2 nights Half day African Heritage Upper $126 $232 There are 17 quiet, elegant rooms with Wi-Fi City Tour^ (Mon-Fri) From $428 per person twin share access, a restaurant, bar, pool and a roof terrace. Full day Schooner Cruise* $240 $388 Departs daily ex Salvador PESTANA CONVENTO DO CARMO ^Private tour. *Shared tour. UNESCO World Heritage Site, In the historic Santo Antonio neighbourhood, Salvador is affectionately known as this luxury hotel occupies a former 16th century MIGUEL SANTANA SHOW A convent. It offers 79 guest rooms furnished with the cultural centre of Brazil. Its pretty Experience an incredible display of Afro-Brazilian antiques and 21st century amenities, an cobblestone streets will lead you past traditions through the language of music and acclaimed restaurant, a fitness centre, sauna, historic churches and brightly painted dance as performed by the Bahia Folklore pool and library. Company, one of the most respected folklore buildings to the picturesque beaches dance troupes in the world. that dot the edge of the bay. Local POUSADA DO PILAR This atmospheric hotel overlooks the Bay of All culture is evident in the many displays of Saints. Décor is colourful, with all 12 guest rooms dance, music and the Brazilian martial featuring spacious ensuite bathrooms and private art of Capoeira that can be seen around balconies or patios. The onsite café has a large the city. Passionate and fun, Salvador terrace with splendid views. has strong African influences illustrated by the many vibrant festivals that occur here throughout the year. INCLUSIONS Private return transfer from airport to hotel, 2 nights accommodation on a B&B basis, private half day historic city tour. ACCOMMODATION Price per person from: Twin Single Villa Bahia (Deluxe Room) $660 $1337 Pestana Convento do Carmo (Dlx Rm) $434 $883 Pestana Convento do Carmo © Pestana Convento do Carmo Pousada do Pilar (Standard Rm) $428 $785

Miguel Santana Show © Bahia Folklore Company

CAPOEIRA EXPERIENCE Take part in a 1 hour Capoeira lesson and learn some of the history behind the Afro-Brazilian martial art that incorporates acrobatics and dance. HALF DAY AFRICAN HERITAGE UPPER CITY TOUR Visit Pelourinho, the African centre of Bahia. Includes the Afro-Brazilian Museum and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black People. FULL DAY SCHOONER CRUISE Board a schooner for a sightseeing cruise of the Bay of All Saints. This scheduled departure includes Beautiful beaches in the Salvador area © Shutterstock a swim at Itaparica, the bay's biggest island.

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 81 BRAZIL • MANAUS & THE THREE ECOSYSTEMS

Pantanal water lillies © Shutterstock Amazon toucan © Shutterstock

MANAUS CITY STAY THE THREE 2 days/1 night ECOSYSTEMS From $411 per person twin share 9 days/8 nights Departs daily ex Manaus From $6060 per person twin share* n the northern bank of the Rio Departs daily ex Cuiabá Negro, Manaus is a cosmopolitan O *Based on two people sharing, singles on request. city at the edge of the Amazonian jungle. Founded in 1669 by the Portuguese, the INCLUSIONS Shared transfers and activities with bilingual guides, city still bears testaments of its colonial full board accommodation in eco-lodges with private past including the Amazonas Opera facilities: 2 nights Park Ecolodge, 3 nights Cristalino Giant anteater © Shutterstock House. The town is 10km from the Lodge and 3 nights Araras Lodge, conservation fees. extraordinary “Meeting of the Rivers”, razil is renowned for its biodiversity Days 6-8 North Pantanal where the black waters of the Rio Negro Band has three major biomes all with Return flight to Cuiabá (not incl.) and drive to meet the clear waters of The Rio Solimoes distinctive landscapes home to a diverse Araras Eco-Lodge in the Pantanal wetlands, but never mix. Manaus is the perfect range of animals and plants; the Amazon home to 154 mammal, 98 reptile and 656 bird starting point for an Amazon River cruise Rainforest with its famous parrot-filled species. Choose from a range of wildlife viewing activities on foot, by horseback, canoe or safari or for a rainforest ecolodge adventure. clay licks, the Cerrado’s tropical savannas truck. BLD INCLUSIONS and the Pantanal – a massive wetland Private airport/hotel arrival and departure transfer, home to the world’s highest density of Day 9 Tour ends Cuiabá Travel the famous Transpantaneira Road back to 1 night accommodation on B&B basis and half day city jaguars. Stay at three unique and remote tour including opera house (not available Sundays). Cuiabá Airport where the tour ends. B properties in each of these pristine HIGHLIGHTS ecosystems and discover the wonders of • Gateway to the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest Brazil for yourself. • Home to fascinating relics of the “Rubber Boom” • Upriver of the “Meeting of the Waters” phenomenon Days 1/2 Chapada dos Guimaraes Depart Cuiabá and drive 60km to Park Eco ACCOMMODATION Lodge in the Chapada dos Guimaraes NP. Price per person from: Twin Single Explore the mystical "Stone City" and hike to Hotel Villa Amazonia (Standard Rm) $435 $753 Holiday Inn Manaus (Classic Rm) $411 $689 the Veu de Noiva Falls. D/BLD HOTEL VILLA AMAZONIA Days 3-5 Southern Amazon Steps from the iconic Opera House, this Return to Cuiabá, fly to Alta Floresta (not incl.) exclusive boutique hotel has a stylish bistro and and transfer to riverside Cristalino Lodge. Take 30 beautiful guest apartments which face the guided walks and river excursions in search of courtyard garden and gorgeous central pool. birds, saki and spider monkeys. Climb the two 50m-tall canopy towers, swim in the river, go HOLIDAY INN MANAUS rappelling and night caiman spotting. BLD A block from the Amazon River, the Holiday VENEZUELA Inn has 238 comfortable guest rooms with free Wi-Fi. There is also an onsite restaurant, a NEGRO R. Tapir reflection time © Marcelo Ísola fitness centre and swimming pool with city views. AMAZON R. ana ortaea AMAZON R. BRAZIL ata ta STAY LONGER Cristalino Lodge oreta SAO Complement your exploration of Brazil's TOCANTINS R. XINGU R. FRANCISCO R. ARAGUAIA R. wilderness with an Amazon river cruise or a visit Park Eco Lodge Caa to Iguazú Falls. Enjoy some beach time in Rio Araras Eco-Lodge BRASILIA de Janeiro or combine Brazil with neighbouring BOLIVIA Campo Argentina. Contact one of our Brazil specialists rane GRANDE R. ha rane PARANA R. to start planning your journey today. Sao ao o e anero arat Manaus © Embratur T: 1300 363 302 PARAGUAY © atra o

82 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES THE AMAZON • BRAZIL

THE AMAZON RAINFOREST 4 days/3 nights Venture deep into the heart of the largest rainforest on earth, a mosaic of different vegetation types including seasonally flooded forests known as varzea and savanna plains. On this page, we’ve featured 3 authentic eco-lodges that offer a range of activities to uncover some of the thousands of fish, bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species which inhabit this incredibly diverse ecosystem. These include capybara, anaconda, giant river otter, tapir, macaw and capuchin monkey. Enjoy eye-opening nature walks by day or by night, view birds and primates that live in the tree canopy at eye-level from lofty observation towers, cruise life-filled lagoons by canoe and visit indigenous communities that call this vast wilderness home. INCLUSIONS Return transfers to and from lodge, 3 nights full board accommodation (beverages excluded), activities with local guide and conservation fees where applicable. *Prices are based on two people sharing, singles on request. CRISTALINO LODGE 4 days/3 nights from $3084 per person twin share* Departs daily ex Alta Floresta Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge nahana Selected by National Geographic Traveller NEGRO R. rhpeao Uakari Lodge AMAZON R. as one of the world’s best eco lodges, ana Cristalino Lodge is nestled in a reserve orena AMAZON R. enna around 1.5 hours by 4WD and boat BRAZIL from Alt Floresta. Accommodation is in airy rooms and bungalows, with access to a central restaurant, bar and deck. Cristalino Lodge ARAGUAIA R. ta oreta Excursions include guided walks through TOCANTINS R. XINGU R. unspoilt rainforest, boat excursions down BOLIVIA Caa BRASILIA the Cristalino River to spot kingfishers © atra o and monkeys or climb the lodges two 50m-high observation towers.

ANAVILHANAS JUNGLE LODGE UAKARI LODGE 4 days/3 nights from $1857 per person twin share*^ 4 days/3 nights from $1186 per person twin share*^ Departs daily ex Manaus Departs Tuesdays ex Téfé This small, exclusive eco-lodge is Built entirely upon floating wooden located in dense rainforest 2.5hrs platforms, the isolated community-run from Manaus and close to the world's Uakari Lodge is 2hrs by speedboat largest freshwater archipelago - the from Téfé in the vast Mamiraua Anavilhanas. There are 16 standard Reserve. There are 10 simple but chalets and 6 larger bungalows with comfortable thatched chalets with balconies, air conditioning and hot hot running water, main lodge and running water. Facilities include a dining observation tower. Bilingual naturalist room, bar, pool and floating deck, guides lead activities including jungle while activities include encounters with walks, canoe and boat excursions and pink river dolphin and piranha fishing. local village visits. ^3, 5 and 6 day packages also available. ^5 and 8 day packages also available.

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 83 BRAZIL • AMAZON CRUISING

THE AMAZON RIVER From 4 days/3 nights Departs selected days ex Manaus he lifeline of the Amazon Rainforest is the river which Tshares its name. Largest in the world by discharge and one of the planet's longest waterways, the Amazon River has over 1,100 tributaries including the black-water Rio Negro that runs through the World Heritage-listed Anavilhanas Archipelago, eventually joining the clear, sandy Rio Solimoes, at the "Meeting of Waters", close to the city of Manaus. The best way to explore the Amazon River and its surrounds is by riverboat. On this page are a selection of premium vessels that offer personalised explorations of the jungle and its wild waterways by canoe or on foot. All visit local caboclo communities, navigate the wildlife-rich Anavilhanas Archipelago and explore the 6km-long confluence of the Negro and Solimoes where the two rivers run M/V DESAFIO side-by-side, their contrasting waters never mixing. 4 days/3 nights from $2128 per person twin share*^ INCLUSIONS Accommodation on board cruise boat, all meals (excluding drinks), services of an English Departs selected Thursdays speaking guide, selected activities. The Desafio is a magnificent masted *Prices are based on two people sharing, singles on request. sailing ship which carries a maximum of just 24 passengers in 12 comfortable BRAZIL ensuite cabins. Feast on delicious nahana meals in the dining room which offers rhpeao fantastic views. Motorised boats take visitors to forested islands in the Anavilhanas on daily excursions. You NEGRO R. MANAUS also have the opportunity to interact ao anaar with local communities, search for orena enna pink dolphins, spotlight for caiman and eetn AMAZON R. o the ater admire gigantic Amazon water lilies. © atra o ^3 and 6 day cruises also available.

M/V PREMIUM M/V TUCANO 6 days/5 nights from $3024 per person twin share*^ 5 days/4 nights from $2599 per person twin share*^ Departs Mondays Departs selected Mondays This upscale riverboat has 16 outside- This traditional flat-bottomed boat is facing ensuite cabins, a dining room designed to navigate shallow channels and rooftop sundecks with panoramic inaccessible to modern vessels. Its forest views. Aside from day and night 9 ensuite cabins have large opening canoe safaris within the Anavilhanas, windows so guests can immerse travellers have the opportunity to themselves in the surrounding swim and sunbathe on the white sand environment. Take nocturnal excursions beach at Praia Grande, fish for piranha to spot caiman and sloths, cruise to the and visit a local community and see Xiborena Peninsula, which divides the how these traditional families live in Rio Negro from the Amazon and look this tranquil freshwater archipelago. for collared anteaters in the amazing ^3 and 4 day cruises also available. Lago Janauari Ecological Park. ^7 day cruise also available.

84 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES NORTHERN PANTANAL • BRAZIL

Days 1/2 Araras Eco-Lodge JAGUAR Depart Cuiabá along the fauna-rich JAGUAR EXPRESS ENCOUNTERS Transpantaneira Highway to Araras Eco-Lodge. 5 days/4 nights Built in harmony with its surrounds, this rustic From $4087 per person twin share 6 days/5 nights property offers a range of activities including Lodge From $4672 per person twin share trekking, horseback rides and canoeing. On Day 2 Lodge enjoy a safari to discover the northern Pantanal’s Departs ex Cuiabá Jul-Oct many endemic species. D/BLD Departs ex Cuiabá pend 5 days at Araras Eco-Lodge Sand enjoy a full day tour searching Price per person from:*^ Twin for jaguars and other creatures along Araras Eco-Lodge/Baiazinha Lodge $4672 the Cuiabá River's banks. Jaguar *Minimum 2 people. Based on two people sharing, Express is the perfect option for those singles on request. who would love to encounter a jaguar ^Baiazinha Lodge programs depart Mon only, and in the wild, but prefer to overnight at operate Jul-Oct. Please contact us for details. a lodge. See page 86 for more INCLUSIONS information on Araras Eco-Lodge. Scheduled transfers from/to Cuiabá, 2 nights full board Please contact us for details. accommodation at Araras Eco-Lodge (beverages excluded), 3 nights full board accommodation at Baiazanha Lodge, activities with bilingual guide and conservation fees. BAIAZINHA LODGE On the banks of the Paraguay River, this isolated ncounter the most powerful predator Baiazinha Lodge © Baiazinha Lodge lodge is reached by road transfer (5hrs) followed Ein the Americas – the jaguar. The by a scenic boat ride downriver from Araras 195,000km2 Pantanal is home to an Lodge. There are only 6 air-conditioned rooms estimated 4,000-6,000 jaguars. The Days 3-5 Baiazinha Lodge equipped with private hot water showers. Depart early for the drive to Caceres to reach Pantanal jaguars are known to be some Facilities include a dining and lounge room, the riverside Baiazinha Lodge. On the afternoon of the largest in the world, many weighing swimming pool and Wi-Fi. Children 8+. of your arrival, and for two further days, enjoy much more than a male leopard. The best river safaris in skiffs from your hotel base, way to search for these jaguars is from travelling along the river and its tributaries in a comfortable base at the edge of the search of the elusive jaguar and other wildlife remote Pantanal wilderness. Baiazinha such as giant river otters. Excursions and wildlife Lodge offers daily skiff excursions with tracking will take place in motorised skiffs. BLD excellent bilingual naturalists so you Day 6 Tour ends Cuiabá can navigate the waterways in search of After breakfast return to Cuiabá. Tour ends. B jaguar and other wildlife.

“The jaguar sightings were the highlight. We saw nine jaguar in five days, but the sheer diversity of wildlife was extraordinary”. - Geoff Putland Thrilling jaguar sighting © Jacare Houseboat

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 85 BRAZIL • NORTHERN PANTANAL

NORTHERN PANTANAL STAY LONGER 4 days/3 nights We recommend adding a Jaguar Encounter Departs ex Cuiabá (p85) for the best chance to view these big cats. You could also visit the Amazon INCLUSIONS Rainforest or Southern Pantanal. Contact our Scheduled return transfers to and from lodge, 3 nights full board accommodation (beverages excluded), activities with Brazil travel specialists for more information. bilingual guide and conservation fees where applicable. *All prices based on two people sharing, singles on request. T:VENEZUELA 1300 363 302 hilst the Amazon Rainforest is better known to most travellers, the Pantanal NEGRO R. is a far easier place to observe wildlife. A vast area of open wetlands covering AMAZON R. W ana some 195,000km² of central South America, the Pantanal’s fantastic array of wildlife ortaea AMAZON R. simply don’t have thick foliage to hide behind. The northern section of the Pantanal BRAZIL ata ta is accessible from Cuiabá, capital of the state of Mato Grosso, driving along the oreta SAO TOCANTINS R. XINGU R. FRANCISCO R. scenic Transpantaneira Park Road. Home to some 698 bird, 80 mammal and 50 ARAGUAIA R.

reptile species, the Pantanal is also one of the best places on earth to see jaguar Pouso Alegre Caa BRASILIA Araras Eco-Lodge in their natural habitat. The lodges on this page have been handpicked for their BOLIVIA biodiversity, sustainable design and environmental projects. They offer a wide range Campo GRANDE R. ha rane rane PARANA R. of explorations led by local guides. Sao ao o e anero © atra o

ARARAS ECO-LODGE POUSO ALEGRE LODGE 4 days/3 nights from $1711 per person twin share* 4 days/3 nights from $1625 per person twin share* Departs daily Departs daily Situated on a private 28,000 hectare reserve around 2.5hrs from Cuiabá Set on 8,000 hectares of private land 2 hours’ drive from Cuiabá, Pouso along Transpantaneira Park Road, Alegre is both a working ranch and a Araras Eco-Lodge is renowned for its haven for some of the Pantanal’s most conservation projects involving the celebrated wildlife. Accommodation is Hyacinth Macaw and giant river otter. in 13 basic but comfortable rooms There are 19 air-conditioned ensuite with screened windows, fans and rooms with solar heated showers, ensuite bathrooms. Surrounding a central swimming pool, large verandas the property is a mosaic of savanna, with hammocks, a bar, restaurant and wetland and rainforest, home to over 20km of trails. The lodge offers a monkeys, anacondas, deer and the range of guided activities including hikes, magnificent Hyacinth Macaw. Enjoy day or night jeep safaris, horseback nature walks, horseback safaris, riding and canoeing. canoeing and fishing.

86 NATURAL FOCUS – TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES SOUTHERN PANTANAL • BRAZIL

SOUTHERN PANTANAL STAY LONGER 4 days/3 nights For a comprehensive Brazil wilderness Departs ex Campo Grande experience, combine lodge stays in both the Northern and Southern Pantanal, as well as INCLUSIONS in the Amazon. Contact our Brazil travel Return transfers to and from lodge, 3 nights full board accommodation, non-alcoholic drinks (Caiman Ecological specialists to start planning your journey today. Refuge only), activities with bilingual guide and conservation fees where applicable. *All prices based on two people sharing, singles on request. T:VENEZUELA 1300 363 302 xperience Brazil’s best kept secret from Campo Grande, capital of Mato Grosso NEGRO R. do Sul, a cosmopolitan city far larger than Cuiabá up north. This part of the AMAZON R. E ana Pantanal is where wide grassy plains are left behind at the end of the rainy season, ortaea AMAZON R. whereupon rice and cattle farmers move in. Discover ‘campeiro’ (cowboy) culture BRAZIL ata ta which has thrived in the area for 200 years, and learn how agriculture and livestock oreta SAO TOCANTINS R. XINGU R. FRANCISCO R. coexist with nature in this beautiful part of the world. Guided excursions include ARAGUAIA R. treks through wetlands and forests, photographic safaris, barge and canoe rides along BOLIVIA Caa BRASILIA the many waterways and piranha fishing. Birding is exceptional, with species such as Caiman Refuge & Pousada Aguape aracari and Hyacinth Macaw common, while elusive creatures such as giant anteater, Campo GRANDE R. ha rane rane PARANA R. armadillo, ocelot, and jaguar may also be seen. Sao ao o e anero © atra o

CAIMAN ECOLOGICAL REFUGE POUSADA AGUAPE 4 days/3 nights from $2782 per person twin share*^ 4 days/3 nights from $1563 per person twin share* Departs daily (9 Jun - 8 Sep departs Thursdays only) Departs daily A scenic 4hrs by road from Campo Grande, this working cattle ranch of 53,000 Located 195km from Campo Grande, this birdwatcher's paradise is home hectares doubles as a sanctuary for the to over 300 recorded species plus Hyacinth Macaw, giant anteater, ocelot capybara, armadillo and anteater. and jaguar. On this property are four Accommodation is in 15 apartments individual lodges featuring a combined fitted with hot water showers, total of 26 comfortable rooms. Activities ceiling fans and air-conditioners, available here are diverse, including whilst recreational facilities include a spotlighting, horseback riding, jeep and swimming pool and volleyball court. A canoe safaris. Learn about “campeiro” central restaurant serves traditional (cowboy) culture, participate in ongoing meals prepared with ingredients grown research projects, look for caiman in on the surrounding farm. Activities and around waterways and stargaze. here include horseback riding, boating, ^5 day packages also available. trekking, nocturnal tours and fishing.

WWW.NATURALFOCUSSAFARIS.COM.AU | E: [email protected] | T: 1300 363 302 87