Hyacinth Macaw. Photo by Steven-Bobzien, Audubon Photography Awards
Brazil 2026 - The World-Class Pantanal: Jaguars to Jabiru
Two Trips
With Optional Extension: Endemics in a Globally Endangered Biome
Due to the popularity of the first Brazil Trip. We decided to offer a second trip immediately following the first trip. Itinerary, guides, and pricing are the same for both trips.
Trip One: Main tour: July 10 to 20, 2026
Extension (optional): July 21 to July 25, 2026
Trip Two: Main Tour: July 25 to August 4, 2026
Extension II (optional): August 5 to 9, 2026
Due to the popularity of the first Brazil Trip. We decided to offer a second trip immediately following the first trip. Itinerary, guides, and pricing are the same for both trips.
Trip One: Main tour: July 10 to 20, 2026
Extension (optional): July 21 to July 25, 2026
Trip Two: Main Tour: July 25 to August 4, 2026
Extension II (optional): August 5 to 9, 2026
Leaders: Adam Betuel (Birds Georgia Senior Director of Programs) and Xavier Muñoz (Neblina Forest)
Group Size: Main tours: 12 people (can be run with 10 or fewer at an elevated price)/ Extension: 11 people (can be run with 8 or fewer at an elevated price)
Fees:
Main tour
Member: $6,685*
Nonmember: $6,745* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia family membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $550/person
Extension
Member: $2,380*
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $150/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at [email protected]
As South Americas largest nation, Brazil is full of diverse habitats, cultures, and one of the worlds largest avian species list. One of Brazil’s most well-known regions from an ecological diversity perspective is the Texas-sized wetland complex known as the Pantanal. This ecosystem, roughly ten times larger than the Everglades, is the world’s largest freshwater wetland. It is comprised of a mix of savannas, woodlands, and various types of aquatic systems, all draining in to the Paraguay River. This mosaic provides a world-class backdrop for enjoying unfathomable bird life, South America’s “Big 5” of mammals, a sense of adventure as we venture down aquatic channels and into remote grasslands, and also connects us to the relaxed ranching communities that call the region home.
This trip is scheduled to occur during the dry season in the Pantanal, which should increase chances of wildlife viewing as concentrated water sources attract birds and mammals from the larger area. We will have great chances of seeing some of the regions most desired bird species including Toco Toucan, Hyacinth Macaw, Red-legged Seriema, Greater Rhea, and the Helmeted Manakin. Additionally, we expect a handful of kingfisher species, an abundance of wading species including Sunbittern, songbirds foreign to most North American birders such as Scarlet-headed Blackbird, Sayaca Tanager, Purplish Jays, and Orange-headed Tanager. These are just a few of the hundreds of species we expect to encounter.
While this tour is a birdwatchers dream, one cannot venture into the depths of the Pantanal and not commune with its breathtaking mammals and other non-avian wildlife. We will specifically target, and have a good chances at locating, the largest cat species in the Americas: The Jaguar! This region is a famous site to watch this species attempt to capture Yacare Caiman and other prey from the banks of the rivers and tributaries that drain through the Pantanal. While any Jaguar sighting will probably steal the show, we will also have chances to spot next-level wildlife including Giant Anteater, Giant Otter, Brazilian Tapir, multiple monkey species, Capybara, Red Brocket Deer, Crab-eating Fox, and if we are really lucky, Maned Wolf.
On this adventure, we will stay on a houseboat hotel, drive to the literal end of the pavement, eat the famous Brazilian Churrascaria cuisine, take small boat excursions and safari-like drives, and enjoy the southern constellations under clear skies. Cattle Ranches will serve as our lodging on multiple occasions and will allow for some restful afternoons, unless you are busy chasing down the stunning photo opportunities at the nearby feeders. This will be an outstanding visit to one of the world’s great wild places, in safe and comfortable surroundings, with experienced guides. Don’t miss this amazing chance.
For those who want another taste of Brazil before heading home, we are offering an extension to the endemic rich Atlantic Rainforest north of Sao Paolo. The Atlantic Rainforest is one of the most imperiled habitats in the world and within these increasingly smaller and smaller forest patches occur some truly outstanding birdlife. We will visit low, mid, and higher elevation forests, each harboring different vegetative communities and associated bird species. Imagine the colorful jewels and amazingly unfamiliar birds that have filled your dreams: Red-breasted Toucan, Brazilian Ruby, Green-headed Tanager, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Blue-backed Manakin, Golden-chevroned Tanager, and so many more. This short but full extension will provide a perfect complement to the main expedition into the Pantanal.
Group Size: Main tours: 12 people (can be run with 10 or fewer at an elevated price)/ Extension: 11 people (can be run with 8 or fewer at an elevated price)
Fees:
Main tour
Member: $6,685*
Nonmember: $6,745* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia family membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $550/person
Extension
Member: $2,380*
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $150/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at [email protected]
As South Americas largest nation, Brazil is full of diverse habitats, cultures, and one of the worlds largest avian species list. One of Brazil’s most well-known regions from an ecological diversity perspective is the Texas-sized wetland complex known as the Pantanal. This ecosystem, roughly ten times larger than the Everglades, is the world’s largest freshwater wetland. It is comprised of a mix of savannas, woodlands, and various types of aquatic systems, all draining in to the Paraguay River. This mosaic provides a world-class backdrop for enjoying unfathomable bird life, South America’s “Big 5” of mammals, a sense of adventure as we venture down aquatic channels and into remote grasslands, and also connects us to the relaxed ranching communities that call the region home.
This trip is scheduled to occur during the dry season in the Pantanal, which should increase chances of wildlife viewing as concentrated water sources attract birds and mammals from the larger area. We will have great chances of seeing some of the regions most desired bird species including Toco Toucan, Hyacinth Macaw, Red-legged Seriema, Greater Rhea, and the Helmeted Manakin. Additionally, we expect a handful of kingfisher species, an abundance of wading species including Sunbittern, songbirds foreign to most North American birders such as Scarlet-headed Blackbird, Sayaca Tanager, Purplish Jays, and Orange-headed Tanager. These are just a few of the hundreds of species we expect to encounter.
While this tour is a birdwatchers dream, one cannot venture into the depths of the Pantanal and not commune with its breathtaking mammals and other non-avian wildlife. We will specifically target, and have a good chances at locating, the largest cat species in the Americas: The Jaguar! This region is a famous site to watch this species attempt to capture Yacare Caiman and other prey from the banks of the rivers and tributaries that drain through the Pantanal. While any Jaguar sighting will probably steal the show, we will also have chances to spot next-level wildlife including Giant Anteater, Giant Otter, Brazilian Tapir, multiple monkey species, Capybara, Red Brocket Deer, Crab-eating Fox, and if we are really lucky, Maned Wolf.
On this adventure, we will stay on a houseboat hotel, drive to the literal end of the pavement, eat the famous Brazilian Churrascaria cuisine, take small boat excursions and safari-like drives, and enjoy the southern constellations under clear skies. Cattle Ranches will serve as our lodging on multiple occasions and will allow for some restful afternoons, unless you are busy chasing down the stunning photo opportunities at the nearby feeders. This will be an outstanding visit to one of the world’s great wild places, in safe and comfortable surroundings, with experienced guides. Don’t miss this amazing chance.
For those who want another taste of Brazil before heading home, we are offering an extension to the endemic rich Atlantic Rainforest north of Sao Paolo. The Atlantic Rainforest is one of the most imperiled habitats in the world and within these increasingly smaller and smaller forest patches occur some truly outstanding birdlife. We will visit low, mid, and higher elevation forests, each harboring different vegetative communities and associated bird species. Imagine the colorful jewels and amazingly unfamiliar birds that have filled your dreams: Red-breasted Toucan, Brazilian Ruby, Green-headed Tanager, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Blue-backed Manakin, Golden-chevroned Tanager, and so many more. This short but full extension will provide a perfect complement to the main expedition into the Pantanal.
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
Please complete the registration process if you would like to be added to the waiting list for either trip. No money will be collected when you join the waiting list. Should a space become available, will contact you and collect payment at that time should you choose to attend.
Please complete the registration process if you would like to be added to the waiting list for either trip. No money will be collected when you join the waiting list. Should a space become available, will contact you and collect payment at that time should you choose to attend.
Leadership Giving Circle members receive exclusive benefits, including early access to our travel program registration, discounts on store purchases, and access to special Leadership Circle trips.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
Guira-Cuckoo, by Theodore Fleming; Toco Toucan, by Deborah Albert; Purplish Jay, by Kyle Arpke. Audubon Photograph Awards.
Trip Overview
Click on each day for more information.
Day 1. : Arrival in Sao Paulo
Today you will need to arrive in São Paulo, Brazil, at Guarulhos International Airport (GRU). No activities are planned for today so you can rest up from your travels. The transfer to our hotel is included; our hotel is about twenty minutes away, and we can organize an early check-in as an option for those that need it. That evening we will have our first group dinner where we will meet Xavier, our experienced South American guide. Sit back, have a caipirinha, and get set for the upcoming adventure!
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
Day 2: Fly to Campo Grande and the southern Pantanal
After an early morning flight to Camp Grande (arrive by 9:00 AM, 1:45 flight duration) we will pile in to our vehicle and head towards our lodging at Aguapé Lodge. The drive will take around 4 hrs and we will make a few short birding stops, attempting to get to lunch at a decent hour. After arrival, lunch, and check-in, we will spend the rest of the day birding the feeders and grounds of the lodge. Chaco Chachalaca, Hyacinth Macaw, Blue-fronted Parrot, Nanday Parakeet, Toco Toucan, Lineated and White Woodpeckers, Narrow-Billed Woodcreeper, Greater Thornbird, Giant Cowbird, Crested Oropendola, Purplish and Plush-crested Jays, and Red-crested Cardinal are few of the species we expect to see out of the gate.
Lodging: Aguapé Lodge
Lodging: Aguapé Lodge
Days 3-4: Pantanal Safari from Aguapé Lodge
Aguapé is in an excellent environment for birdwatching and hosts over 300 species of birds. We have two full days to explore this region of the Pantanal, using the lodge as our base, in addition to the roadways that cut through this habitat to and from Campo Grande. Interesting bird species we may encounter over these two days include Southern Screamer, Blaze-winged Parakeet, Gilded Hummingbird, Pale-crested and White-fronted Woodpecker, Red-billed Scythebill, Helmeted Manakin, and the Scarlet-headed Blackbird. Both days, after an early breakfast, we embark on a safari drive with good chances to see the Undulated Tinamou, Capped Heron, Jabiru, Savanna Hawk, Rufescent Tiger Heron, Buff-necked and Plumbeous Ibises, Roseate Spoonbill, Hyacinth and Yellow-collared Macaw, Orange-backed Troupial, and many others. After lunch back at the lodge, we plan on enjoying a siesta in the hot part of the day, and then we will make another safari drive until the end of the day, returning in the dark with chances to see mammals like the Crab-eating Fox, South American Coati, Capybara, Marsh Deer, Southern Tamandua, Crab-eating Raccoon, River Otter, and night birds such as Common and Great Potoo, Spectacled and Striped Owl, Pauraque and Scissor-tailed Nightjar.
This area is known to be one of the best places to spot Giant Anteater in the whole region and we will effort to find them, so keep your fingers crossed! Each day, we will have dinner upon return, and for those that wish, the checklist.
*Optional fishing with local guides and boats can be arranged while you are at this lodge (cost not included in tour fee*
Lodging: Aguapé Lodge
This area is known to be one of the best places to spot Giant Anteater in the whole region and we will effort to find them, so keep your fingers crossed! Each day, we will have dinner upon return, and for those that wish, the checklist.
*Optional fishing with local guides and boats can be arranged while you are at this lodge (cost not included in tour fee*
Lodging: Aguapé Lodge
Day 5: Aquidauana River and Campo Grande
After an early breakfast, we’ll take a final bird walk around Aguape for excellent chances to see Great Rufous Woodcreeper, Blaze-winged Parakeet, Black-crowned Tityra, Chestnut-eared Aracari, and Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, among the many more. This morning we also enjoy a motorboat excursion along the Aquidauana River. This river is full of life and provides good chances to see a family of Giant River Otters and special birds like Black-collared Hawk, five species of kingfisher, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Blue-throated Piping Guan, and many others. After an early lunch at the lodge, we’ll drive back to Campo Grande, check in to the hotel, and then enjoy a short visit to the “nesterar” a place where a nice concentration of macaws and herons nest near the city.
Lodging: Campo Grande
Lodging: Campo Grande
Day 6: The Northern Pantanal
After an early domestic flight to Cuiabá (1hr) we begin the second (northern) half of our Pantanal adventure!
Driving south, we reach the famed Pantanal via a paved road to Poconé. En route we will have lunch in a typical churrasqueria, and enjoy simple Brazilian-style cuisine. From here, we travel the dirt Transpantaneira Road, perhaps only rivaled by Tanzania’s Serengeti road for spotting wildlife.
Our destination tonight is Pousada Piuval. Along the way, we might see Ringed Kingfisher, Red-crested Cardinal, Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, Toco Toucan, Jabiru, Limpkin, our Capybaras (of course!), Yacaré Caiman, and more. Pousada Piuval is located just 10km from Poconé. This is the first lodge on the Transpantaneira. It is small, about twenty rooms, and part of a large (7,000ha), family-run ranch. After check in, we can stretch our legs on a short walk. There is a lovely pool if anyone wants to cool off with a swim.
Lodging: Pousada Piuval
Driving south, we reach the famed Pantanal via a paved road to Poconé. En route we will have lunch in a typical churrasqueria, and enjoy simple Brazilian-style cuisine. From here, we travel the dirt Transpantaneira Road, perhaps only rivaled by Tanzania’s Serengeti road for spotting wildlife.
Our destination tonight is Pousada Piuval. Along the way, we might see Ringed Kingfisher, Red-crested Cardinal, Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, Toco Toucan, Jabiru, Limpkin, our Capybaras (of course!), Yacaré Caiman, and more. Pousada Piuval is located just 10km from Poconé. This is the first lodge on the Transpantaneira. It is small, about twenty rooms, and part of a large (7,000ha), family-run ranch. After check in, we can stretch our legs on a short walk. There is a lovely pool if anyone wants to cool off with a swim.
Lodging: Pousada Piuval
Days 7: Transpantaneira and the drive to Porto Jofre
After some morning wildlife viewing at the ranch, we depart down the Transpantaneira, keeping an eye out for Red Brocket Deer, Marsh Deer, Crab-eating Fox, Greater Rhea, Chestnut-bellied Guan, Bare-faced Curassow, and a mix of wading birds. Bridges are hotspots from which we can view the presence of a huge food supply; Green Kingfisher, Great Egret, Cocoi Heron, both Bare-faced and Green Ibises, and White-lored Spinetail are just a few species we may see hunting along the water. We pass through scattered palm woodlands, cerrado scrub, and seasonally-flooded grasslands reminiscent of the Everglades. Roadside ponds and canals are filled with waders: Roseate Spoonbill, Plumbeous Ibis, Limpkin, cormorants, herons, kingfishers, and their predator, Yacaré Caiman. July water conditions concentrate the fish for foraging waders like Jabiru and Maguari Stork.
At Porto Joffe, the “end of the road,” palms attract several resident pairs of Hyacinth Macaw. From this little town on the Cuiabá River, we board a small boat to reach our lodgings — two days on a lovely houseboat. Rooms are air-conditioned, with private baths. This “floating hotel” allows us to stay close to where the wildlife has been spotted; we will explore from the houseboat each day on smaller boats. We’ll check into our boat cabins, have dinner, then have a briefing on safety and the wildlife we hope to see. If skies are clear, star viewing is impressive ― you can see the Southern Cross!
Lodging: Boat Panoramico (Transpantanal)
At Porto Joffe, the “end of the road,” palms attract several resident pairs of Hyacinth Macaw. From this little town on the Cuiabá River, we board a small boat to reach our lodgings — two days on a lovely houseboat. Rooms are air-conditioned, with private baths. This “floating hotel” allows us to stay close to where the wildlife has been spotted; we will explore from the houseboat each day on smaller boats. We’ll check into our boat cabins, have dinner, then have a briefing on safety and the wildlife we hope to see. If skies are clear, star viewing is impressive ― you can see the Southern Cross!
Lodging: Boat Panoramico (Transpantanal)
Day 8: Jaguars!!!
Today we awake on the river to a host of sounds and the sight of colorful macaws and more flying overhead. We will board smaller speedboats and will spend the day searching for the iconic Jaguar, known for their affinity to water. They are good swimmers, and often lay down along the shore after a swim. Chances are good that we see at least one individual, male or female ― perhaps even together! We will break for lunch on board, take a short siesta (yes, love that AC … ) and try for Jaguar again in the afternoon. Wildlife is plentiful in this remote part of the Pantanal, so once we accomplish the main task (a Jaguar, of course) we have time to admire other species like Giant Otter, Black Skimmer, Pied Plover, Southern Screamer, and Yacaré Caiman. We also visit little streams for skulkers like the American Pygmy Kingfisher and Sungrebe.
In the late afternoon we will return to our welcoming houseboat. Celebrations our sightings will be had, with caipirinhas before dinner or a tropical fruit juice for those who prefer.
Lodging: Boat Panoramico (Transpantanal)
In the late afternoon we will return to our welcoming houseboat. Celebrations our sightings will be had, with caipirinhas before dinner or a tropical fruit juice for those who prefer.
Lodging: Boat Panoramico (Transpantanal)
Day 9: Lower Transpantaneira
After two days immersed in the wildest part of the Pantanal, we return north, retracing our route. We are not in a hurry though, and will work some of the areas we previously traveled past but this time in more detail. Perhaps we find a troop of Black-and-Gold Howler Monkeys, Chestnut-eared Aracari, Snail Kite, Rusty-backed Antwren, Common Tody Flycatcher, White-browed Blackbird, and others species as we drive to our next lodge. We’ll watch for Cream-colored Woodpecker, Ashy-headed Greenlet, Short-crested Flycatcher, Mato Grosso Antbird, Great Antshrike, and Purple-throated Euphonia. Near water we hope to find Whistling and Capped Herons, Pygmy and Ringed Kingfishers, Sunbittern, Black-collared and Great Black Hawks, and Rusty-backed Spinetail. Once we arrive at the Mato Grosso Hotel on the Rio Pixium, we settle in and check the feeders for brilliant-colored troupials, Palm, Silver, and Sayaca Tanagers, and Red-crested Cardinals. At this point in our journey we hopefully have seen numerous mammals and birds, and we can base our efforts on finding anything missing from our list that we had hoped to see.
Lodging: Hotel Pantanal Mato Grosso
Lodging: Hotel Pantanal Mato Grosso
Day 10: Pixaim River
It’s another morning for gazing at the sunrise while sipping good Brazilian coffee. This morning, pending what we still need to see, we can do a safari drive, or we can take a small boat ride on the Pixaim River to spot secretive species like Agami and Zig-Zag Heron. This is a good spot for Giant Otters and, with luck and some searching, a Tapir. Driving back to Cuiabá, the landscapes are iconic and make for great pictures. We look for Black-capped Donacobious, Green-and-rufous Kingfisher, Little Blue Heron, and other species like some very impressive iguanas. We can break up our drive with a walk in gallery forest habitat looking for special birds like Helmeted Manakin, Mato Grosso Antbird, Band-tailed Antbird, Black-hooded Tanager, Blue-crowned Trogon, and more. Dinner finds us sampling authentic Grosso cuisine, including legendary piranha and local beef.
Lodging: Hotel Pantanal Mato Grosso
Lodging: Hotel Pantanal Mato Grosso
Day 11: Return to Cuiabá
Today, we make our way back to Cuiabá; the paved road is perhaps a welcome sight as we bid adieu to the marvelous but often dusty Pantanal. Our plan is to arrive in Cuiabá in time for connections to São Paolo for evening flights out (for those not opting for the extension). Plan on flights after 4:00PM. For those not finding a good match up, you can return to GRU and overnight, or simply overnight at a hotel we regularly use in Cuiabá and start fresh the following day. Speak with Adam before arranging these flights. He will want to make sure things are as seamless as possible for those departing Brazil.
For those of you continuing on to the extension, we will fly back to Sao Paola (1:45 hr) and have a relaxing evening back in the friendly confines of the Hampton Inn.
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
For those of you continuing on to the extension, we will fly back to Sao Paola (1:45 hr) and have a relaxing evening back in the friendly confines of the Hampton Inn.
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
EXTENSION Day 1: Itatiaia National Park
We will depart after an early breakfast so we can arrive at Itatiaia National Park (170 miles) before noon. Along the highway we will look keep our eyes open for Southern Crested Caracaras and both White-tailed and Crane Hawks. Stopping at the park’s entrance station provides us with our first opportunity to bird the Atlantic Forest. White-eyed Parakeets may put on a show as they jet overhead, while we look for Curl-crested Jay, Chalk-browed Mockingbird, Campo Flicker, Savannah Hawk, Ruby-crowned Tanager, Gray Monjita, and Crested Black-Tyrant. We will have lunch at the national park, check into our rooms, and then enjoy the stunning vista with an array of feeders and birds in the foreground. For birders and photographers alike, it is such a treat to see so many of the colorful birds of this place, and so close: Red-breasted Toucan, Dusky-legged Guan, Green Honeycreeper, White-throated Hummingbird, Brazilian Ruby, Chestnut-bellied Euphonia, Green-headed and other tanagers, Crested Oropendola, and Red-rumped Cacique all may be at close range. This is a fine introduction to some of the species of the Atlantic Forest and what the following days have in store.
Lodging: Hotel do Ype
Lodging: Hotel do Ype
Extension Day 2-3: Mid and High Elevation Forest Birding
These two days are dedicated to exploring the trails and roads of the central part of the park. We stop for flocks as we climb the road to the higher elevations of the park where we should find Maroon-bellied Parakeet, Planalto Hermit, Surucua Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Rufous-capped Motmot, Tufted Antshrike, White-bearded Antshrike, Variable Antshrike, Spot-breasted Antvireo, Plain Antvireo, Star-throated Antwren, White-shouldered Fire-eye, Ferruginous Antbird, Ochre-rumped Antbird, White-bibbed Antbird, Rufous Gnateater, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Blue-backed Manakin, Gray-capped Tyrannulet, Bay-chested Warbling-Finch, Buff-throated Warbling-Finch, Diademed Tanager, Olivaceous Woodcreeper, White-throated Woodcreeper, and Scaled Woodcreeper. We drive through the area, making “specialty stops” to areas that have Violet-capped Woodnymph, Black Hawk-Eagle, and Collared Forest-Falcon. Higher elevation stops allow us to look for Araucaria Tit-Spinetail, Itatiaia Spinetail, and Rufous-capped Antshrike. A number of different species occur along the transition zones of the various elevation-dependent habitats as we climb the road to the top. These include a long list: White-barred Piculet, Yellow-eared Woodpecker, Plain-winged Woodcreeper, Black-billed Scythebill, Rufous-capped Spinetail, Pallid Spinetail, White-collared Foliage-gleaner, Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner, Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner, White-browed Foliage-gleaner, Yellow Tyrannulet, Gray-hooded Flycatcher, Cliff Flycatcher, Black-tailed Flycatcher, White-throated Spadebill, Velvety Black-Tyrant, Long-tailed Tyrant, White-browed Warbler, Golden-crowned Warbler, Rufous-crowned Greenlet, Golden-winged Cacique, Black-goggled Tanager, Rufous-headed Tanager, Golden-chevroned Tanager, and Ruby-crowned Tanager. We should also find monkeys: Black Capuchin along with Black-striped Capuchin. One of the fascinating aspects of climbing this road is the different plant communities and species. We bird in Araucaria forest, a unique, high-elevation conifer of the park; the tundra-like plants found in the shrubby lands at the top of the park; and lower elevation cloud forest, complete with salvias, bromeliads, and orchids. Lower elevations have intermittent forests embedded with grasslands and streams. All of these habitats provide ample opportunity to experience this well-known and diversity-rich part of Brazil.
Lodging: Hotel do Ype
Lodging: Hotel do Ype
EXTENSION Days 4: A final morning in the forest
This morning we enjoy an early breakfast, and then drive to the Agulhas Negras road into the highlands on the far side of the park. This road gives us access to higher elevation habitat where some specialty birds are found. Notable among these are White-rumped Hawk, Rufous-thighed Hawk, Araucaria Tit-Spinetail, Itatiaia Thistletail, Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner, Rufous-tailed Antbird, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Black-capped Piprites, Brown-breasted Bamboo Tyrant, Shear-tailed Gray Tyrant, Diademed Tanager, Gray-throated Warbling-Finch, and Bay-chested Warbling-Finch.
After we finish birding here, we will drive back to São Paulo. There will be one final group dinner and a recap of our favorite birds of the trip.
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
After we finish birding here, we will drive back to São Paulo. There will be one final group dinner and a recap of our favorite birds of the trip.
Lodging: Matiz Guarulhos (Hampton)
EXTENSION Day 5: Departure
There are no activities today beyond us providing you a transfer to the airport. Safe travels and we hoped you enjoyed this taste of what Brazil has to offer!
Number of bird species expected: 200-250 (main tour and extension combined). Plus many mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Additional Details
Greater Rhea. Photo by Jean Hall, Audubon Photography Awards.
Services Included:
Price does not include
Payments:
1. $500.00 due to reserve spot on trip. ($560 for non-members, includes one-year family membership)
2. Half of cost (less $500) due by November 15, 2025
3. Full payment must be made by March 15, 2026
*The final payment would include your single supplement payments and extension if selected.
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by November 15, 2025, a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card processing fees incurred by Birds Georgia). If notice of cancellation is received between November 16, 2025 and March 1, 2026, a 50% refund of the fees paid to date will be given, unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card processing fees incurred by Birds Georgia). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a refund will be given, less any non-refundable payments made to tour partners or incurred by Birds Georgia. Birds Georgia and its tour partners reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary that we think will improve the trip and/or due to local conditions, both before the trip and during. If changes are made prior to the trip, participants will be notified, but changes made to the itinerary do not change the terms of our cancellation policy. If it is necessary to change hotels or other accommodations, comparable accommodations will be substituted wherever possible. Please contact Adam Betuel if you have any questions regarding the non-refundable payment schedule.
Travel Insurance:
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in case you must make an unforeseen trip cancellation past our refund period. Check with your own insurance carrier or consider a travel insurance specialist. Travel insurance is generally inexpensive, but must be purchased within a few days of registering for the trip.
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
- A Birds Georgia (Adam Betuel) and Neblina Forest (Xavier Muñoz) guide as well as local driver(s)
- All meals (including soft drinks and water), from dinner on Day 1 to dinner on Day 11 (main trip)
- All meals on extension included as well, from breakfast on Day 1 through dinner on Day 4. Water will be available at all times on both the main tour and extension
- All transportation including transfers from airports, domestic flights (3), private safari truck, boat trips, and group bus
- All accommodations during the trip
- All entrance fees
- Taxes
- eBird checklists and trip report
- Bound checklist for recapping each days activities
Price does not include
- Tips for Neblina guide, drivers, and other local day guides
- Costs of obtaining passports/visas
- All international airfare and any accompanying baggage fees
- Snacks, beverages, room service, or sightseeing not specified in itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs
- Laundry
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Medical costs and any testing should it be required
- Gratuities for birding guides (Red Hill and local guide - optional)
- Phone/Personal communications
- Any other incidentals that participants may wish to purchase
Payments:
1. $500.00 due to reserve spot on trip. ($560 for non-members, includes one-year family membership)
2. Half of cost (less $500) due by November 15, 2025
3. Full payment must be made by March 15, 2026
*The final payment would include your single supplement payments and extension if selected.
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by November 15, 2025, a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card processing fees incurred by Birds Georgia). If notice of cancellation is received between November 16, 2025 and March 1, 2026, a 50% refund of the fees paid to date will be given, unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card fees). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee and all credit card processing fees incurred by Birds Georgia). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a refund will be given, less any non-refundable payments made to tour partners or incurred by Birds Georgia. Birds Georgia and its tour partners reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary that we think will improve the trip and/or due to local conditions, both before the trip and during. If changes are made prior to the trip, participants will be notified, but changes made to the itinerary do not change the terms of our cancellation policy. If it is necessary to change hotels or other accommodations, comparable accommodations will be substituted wherever possible. Please contact Adam Betuel if you have any questions regarding the non-refundable payment schedule.
Travel Insurance:
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in case you must make an unforeseen trip cancellation past our refund period. Check with your own insurance carrier or consider a travel insurance specialist. Travel insurance is generally inexpensive, but must be purchased within a few days of registering for the trip.
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
Important Information
Jabiru White-eyed Parakeet. Photo by Melody Lytle, Audubon Photography Awards.
Passport and visa information
It is always best to check on the latest visa and passport information before you travel. Please contact us if you have any concerns. As of this writing, Americans need a visa in advance of travel to Brazil. It will be beneficial to get this visa ahead of time. As of summer 2025, the visa costs $80.90, including the service fee. https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/
Physical difficulty
This trip is physically easy to moderate. Most of our walking will be on flat trails or on roads, and while we may be on our feet for extensive periods, we will be walking at a “birding pace.” Much of our birding will be done along roads, driving and stopping frequently. We will also be birding from boats, which often requires twisting and turning and a bit of patience! There will be stepping in and out of boats, balancing on watercraft, stepping into a bus that may require a stepstool, and walking on occasionally uneven surfaces. We will stop at real bathrooms as frequently as possible, but at times only bushes will be available.
Pace
The pace of the trip is easy to moderate. A typical day will have us up early to catch the peak early morning bird activity. Some days will have us returning for breakfast at the lodge where we are staying; some breakfasts will be in the field. Lunches may be picnics on occasion but most will be at restaurants or lodge dining areas. Some days we will be in the field all day, other days will afford us the opportunity for an afternoon siesta. There are a few long drives (a few in the 3-4 hour range) on this trip, which we will break up with birding and/or bathroom stops. There will be some nights where we have the option of making short excursions to look for owls, nightjars, and nocturnal animals. We will compile our daily checklist, which your guide will provide at the beginning of the tour, at or near dinner.
Hotels
The hotels/lodges on our route are generally comfortable to very comfortable. Lodging is listed under the day’s description above. We will be using a mix of chain hotels (around airports) and ecolodges out in the field. Most/all hotels should have free wireless internet (occasionally only available in common areas). Electrical outlets are “Type N” or “Type C”, with two round prongs or two round prongs with a middle round grounding plug.
Money
The Brazilian currency is the Brazilian Real Dollar, with an exchange rate of 5.48:1 (as of 6/27/25). Most major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments. Dollars are not generally accepted so we will want to exchange currency.
Photography/Birding Effort
The photographic opportunities and general bird finding on this tour is excellent. This is primarily a birdwatching tour, so while there will be many excellent opportunities for photography along the way, we will not be making special considerations for photographers. With great feeder setups, open grassland habitat, and aquatic habitats, birds will often be out in the open, visible and ready for optics.
Weather
This trip is scheduled to coincide with the region’s dry season. Rain is not likely, especially to a detrimental level. We will be visiting in the southern winter but will be in a tropical zone. The weather will generally be warm but can be quite chilly in the morning and may reach very hot temperatures in the afternoon. Typical early morning temperatures will be comfortable to cool. The roads are good but some are dusty, primarily in the Pantanal.
Food
The food is generally of a high standard on this tour. This region is often meat heavy but churrascarias have vast vegetable-based dishes. Vegetarian and other dietary restrictions should easily be accommodated; Please contact Adam Betuel by email to discuss your needs before registering if you think there could be an issue. Snacks can be easily purchased at gas stations and elsewhere, but if there’s a particular birding snack you like at home, feel free to bring some along.
Seating
A seating rotation will be implemented to make sure people have an opportunity to sit in various spots in the vehicle. If you struggle with sitting in the back or get motion sickness, come prepared. If you cannot abide by the seat rotation, please do not register.
Packing considerations
You will generally want to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, with layers for the possible changes of temperature as the day progresses. The dress for the tour is entirely casual. Long pants and long sleeved shirts are recommended for protection from the sun and to be prepared for various weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and one should consider hiking boots and/or shoes that can get wet on the boats. Some lodges having swimming pools, so a bathing suit is recommended if you think you might take advantage. There will be opportunities to do laundry along the way.
In terms of gear, apart from the usual binoculars, hat, field guide, etc., a flashlight or head lamp is very useful. Most people appreciate having a camera along. Sunscreen and bug repellant are useful, although mosquitoes and other biting insects are not a problem on this dry season tour.
It is always best to check on the latest visa and passport information before you travel. Please contact us if you have any concerns. As of this writing, Americans need a visa in advance of travel to Brazil. It will be beneficial to get this visa ahead of time. As of summer 2025, the visa costs $80.90, including the service fee. https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/
Physical difficulty
This trip is physically easy to moderate. Most of our walking will be on flat trails or on roads, and while we may be on our feet for extensive periods, we will be walking at a “birding pace.” Much of our birding will be done along roads, driving and stopping frequently. We will also be birding from boats, which often requires twisting and turning and a bit of patience! There will be stepping in and out of boats, balancing on watercraft, stepping into a bus that may require a stepstool, and walking on occasionally uneven surfaces. We will stop at real bathrooms as frequently as possible, but at times only bushes will be available.
Pace
The pace of the trip is easy to moderate. A typical day will have us up early to catch the peak early morning bird activity. Some days will have us returning for breakfast at the lodge where we are staying; some breakfasts will be in the field. Lunches may be picnics on occasion but most will be at restaurants or lodge dining areas. Some days we will be in the field all day, other days will afford us the opportunity for an afternoon siesta. There are a few long drives (a few in the 3-4 hour range) on this trip, which we will break up with birding and/or bathroom stops. There will be some nights where we have the option of making short excursions to look for owls, nightjars, and nocturnal animals. We will compile our daily checklist, which your guide will provide at the beginning of the tour, at or near dinner.
Hotels
The hotels/lodges on our route are generally comfortable to very comfortable. Lodging is listed under the day’s description above. We will be using a mix of chain hotels (around airports) and ecolodges out in the field. Most/all hotels should have free wireless internet (occasionally only available in common areas). Electrical outlets are “Type N” or “Type C”, with two round prongs or two round prongs with a middle round grounding plug.
Money
The Brazilian currency is the Brazilian Real Dollar, with an exchange rate of 5.48:1 (as of 6/27/25). Most major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments. Dollars are not generally accepted so we will want to exchange currency.
Photography/Birding Effort
The photographic opportunities and general bird finding on this tour is excellent. This is primarily a birdwatching tour, so while there will be many excellent opportunities for photography along the way, we will not be making special considerations for photographers. With great feeder setups, open grassland habitat, and aquatic habitats, birds will often be out in the open, visible and ready for optics.
Weather
This trip is scheduled to coincide with the region’s dry season. Rain is not likely, especially to a detrimental level. We will be visiting in the southern winter but will be in a tropical zone. The weather will generally be warm but can be quite chilly in the morning and may reach very hot temperatures in the afternoon. Typical early morning temperatures will be comfortable to cool. The roads are good but some are dusty, primarily in the Pantanal.
Food
The food is generally of a high standard on this tour. This region is often meat heavy but churrascarias have vast vegetable-based dishes. Vegetarian and other dietary restrictions should easily be accommodated; Please contact Adam Betuel by email to discuss your needs before registering if you think there could be an issue. Snacks can be easily purchased at gas stations and elsewhere, but if there’s a particular birding snack you like at home, feel free to bring some along.
Seating
A seating rotation will be implemented to make sure people have an opportunity to sit in various spots in the vehicle. If you struggle with sitting in the back or get motion sickness, come prepared. If you cannot abide by the seat rotation, please do not register.
Packing considerations
You will generally want to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, with layers for the possible changes of temperature as the day progresses. The dress for the tour is entirely casual. Long pants and long sleeved shirts are recommended for protection from the sun and to be prepared for various weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and one should consider hiking boots and/or shoes that can get wet on the boats. Some lodges having swimming pools, so a bathing suit is recommended if you think you might take advantage. There will be opportunities to do laundry along the way.
In terms of gear, apart from the usual binoculars, hat, field guide, etc., a flashlight or head lamp is very useful. Most people appreciate having a camera along. Sunscreen and bug repellant are useful, although mosquitoes and other biting insects are not a problem on this dry season tour.
