Caiman Ecological Refuge

Cordilheira Lodge

The Pantanal, Brazil

On the edge of the Cordilheira forest

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 and Blue-Fronted Parrot Project, all done through partnerships with researchers and universities.

Cordilheira Lodge is one of two lodges within the refuge. Located at the margins of a Cordilheira forest, it sits on stilts and is perfectly integrated with the surrounding natural scene. Its five suite guestrooms are stylish and contemporary and each offers a separate bedroom and living room, bathroom, powder room and balcony. A large lounge area and dining space for ten provides a casual area for relaxation and socializing whilst the pool and deck area is the perfect spot to unwind with a cool drink as you take in the expansive views of the Pantanal landscape.

There are a huge number of activities to be undertaken here including ecological tours, photographic safaris, canoe trips, night walks, astronomy workshops and insights into the jaguar programme. Biking, birdwatching and boat trips on the Aquidauana River can all also be arranged.

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 while also offering the perfect sanctuary for relaxing in the beauty and tranquility of nature.

You will love

  • Stilted lodge with forest views
  • Pioneering ecotourism
  • Expansive Pantanal views
  • Adventure and tranquility
  • In the world‘s largest wetlands

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

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.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

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.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

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!

Buckingham Family

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!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

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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Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

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Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

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

Annette Whiley

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.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

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

The McGowan Tribe

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

Judith & Roger Williams

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