Caiman

The Pantanal, Brazil

Pioneering ecotourism

Brazil’s Pantanal is a region of extraordinary beauty, with vast seasonal wetlands and ancient woodlands. It is a completely unique biome, home to numerous wildlife species, including capybara, caiman, ocelot, the elusive jaguar, giant anteaters and the highest concentration of birds in South America.

Situated on a 53,000 hectare cattle ranch in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, the Caiman Ecological Refuge is a pioneer in ecotourism in the Southern Pantanal. It is actively involved with environmental research and conservation projects including the Hyacinth Macaw Project, the Blue-Fronted Parrot Project, and a pioneering jaguar habituation programme, all done through partnerships with researchers, universities and the highly regarded NGO0, Onçafari.

Casa Caiman features 18 luxurious, boutique suites, which range from a vast 80m² Master Suite to the equally beautiful ‘standard’ suites, which stand at 45m² with a king-size double bed (or two single beds), a spacious bathroom and an outdoor terrace. The main lodge features an outdoor terrace, swimming pool, deck overlooking the bay, living room, courtyard, hammock area, a restaurant, sauna and gym all surrounded by extensive gardens which teem with birdlife, and reaching views across the landscape.

In addition to Casa Caiman, the 6-bedroom Villa Baiazinha is located 9 kms away and is available for private rental for small groups seeking more privacy. It has its own swimming pool with deck, loungers and hammocks, living room and dining area.

During your stay, discover the spectacular surroundings and wildlife during guided daytime and nocturnal jeep safaris, nature walks and canoeing trips, while horse riding led by the local community of cowboys has been added to the experiences on offer. Caiman  is also home to a 5,600 hectare Private Reserve of Natural Patrimony (RPPN), legally protected in perpetuity, and a permanent residents’ community for both lodge and ranch employees with their families.

Staying at the Caiman Ecological Refuge is a fantastic opportunity to support a pioneering ecological cause whilst also enjoying the indulgence of a luxury lodge. It provides the perfect base for experiencing the adventure of the Brazilian wilderness and offers the perfect sanctuary for relaxing in the beauty and tranquility of nature.

You will love

  • Beautiful luxury lodge immersed in nature
  • Pioneering conservation projects
  • Adventure meets tranquility
  • Rich, diverse wetland wildlife
  • High likelihood of jaguar sightings
Capybaras wading in a shallow pond surrounded by lush vegetation at the Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal, Brazil, highlighting the rich wildlife and natural beauty of the area.
Giant anteater foraging in the grasslands of the Pantanal, showcasing the region's rich wildlife and ecological diversity.
Capybaras wading in water at Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing the diverse wetland wildlife of the Pantanal region.
Caiman resting on lush greenery at Caiman Ecological Refuge, highlighting the diverse wildlife of the Pantanal region.
Luxurious lounge area at Caiman Ecological Refuge featuring comfortable seating, rustic decor, and natural light, highlighting eco-friendly accommodation in the Pantanal region.
Luxury lodge room at Caiman Ecological Refuge, featuring a king-sized bed with decorative pillows, natural light from large windows, and a view of the Pantanal landscape, emphasizing eco-friendly accommodation and comfort.
Interior of Caiman Ecological Refuge lodge featuring a decorative leopard sculpture, comfortable seating, and views of the Pantanal landscape, promoting luxury ecotourism and wildlife experiences.
Monkey, deer, and coati in natural habitat, showcasing wildlife diversity at Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal.
Toucan perched on a branch amidst vibrant green leaves in the Pantanal region, highlighting the rich wildlife experience at Caiman Ecological Refuge.
Hyacinth macaw perched on a palm frond, showcasing vibrant blue feathers and a yellow eye patch, amidst lush green foliage of the Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal, Brazil.
Biking and horseback riding through the lush landscapes of the Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing diverse wildlife and ecotourism activities in the Pantanal region of Brazil.
Luxurious poolside area at Caiman Ecological Refuge featuring loungers, towels, and lush tropical landscaping, promoting relaxation in nature.
Caiman Ecological Refuge luxury lodge showcasing natural stone exterior and wooden sauna interior, surrounded by lush greenery in the Pantanal region.
Outdoor lounge area with a fireplace, surrounded by tropical plants and illuminated by soft lighting, creating a serene atmosphere at the Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal.
Group of people relaxing under a large tree at Caiman Ecological Refuge, with horses in the background and a hammock nearby, showcasing the tranquil atmosphere of the Pantanal's ecotourism experience.
Cowboys riding horses through the Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing traditional cattle ranching in the Pantanal region of Brazil.
Giant anteater walking through wetland vegetation in the Pantanal, showcasing the region's rich wildlife and ecological diversity.
Caiman resting in water, showcasing its open mouth and sharp teeth, highlighting the rich wildlife of the Caiman Ecological Refuge in Brazil's Pantanal region.
Group of wildlife enthusiasts observing nature in the lush environment of the Caiman Ecological Refuge, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.
Wildlife enthusiasts observing a jaguar near a camouflaged safari vehicle in the lush environment of the Caiman Ecological Refuge, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.
Jaguar hunting and consuming a caiman in the lush grasslands of the Pantanal, showcasing the region's rich wildlife and natural predator-prey dynamics.
Ocelot near water in the Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing the rich wildlife of the Pantanal region.
Hyacinth Macaw emerging from a tree hollow in the Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing vibrant blue plumage and natural habitat in the Pantanal.
Jaguar resting in tall grass at Caiman Ecological Refuge, showcasing the rich wildlife of the Pantanal region in Brazil.
Cozy interior of a luxury lodge at Caiman Ecological Refuge, featuring a leopard-print ottoman, wooden bookshelf filled with books, and inviting seating area with vibrant decor, emphasizing the blend of comfort and nature.
Luxury lodge bedroom at Caiman Ecological Refuge featuring a leopard print bedspread, red accent pillows, wooden furniture, and nature-themed artwork, showcasing a blend of comfort and natural aesthetics in the Pantanal.
Luxury lodge room at Caiman Ecological Refuge featuring a king-sized bed with leopard print bedding, red accent pillows, wooden furniture, and natural light enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Bartender preparing cocktails at the Caiman Ecological Refuge lodge, showcasing luxury hospitality in a nature-inspired setting with artistic decor and ambient lighting.
Person climbing a tall tree in the Caiman Ecological Refuge, Mato Grosso do Sul, highlighting adventure and conservation efforts in the Pantanal.
Luxury lodge at Caiman Ecological Refuge featuring illuminated architecture, palm trees, and outdoor seating area, showcasing a tranquil setting immersed in nature.
Luxurious interior of the Caiman Ecological Refuge lodge, featuring comfortable seating, natural decor, and large windows showcasing the surrounding nature in the Pantanal region.
Jaguar in the lush grasses of the Pantanal, showcasing the rich wildlife of the Caiman Ecological Refuge.

Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.

Jenny Kidd

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!

Mark Taylor

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

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Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

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Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

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The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

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If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

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The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

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It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

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Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

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An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

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