South America is home to some of the most remarkable landscapes and ecological systems in the world. One of these places is the Pantanal wetland, a vast expanse of wetlands located in Brazil’s Mato Grosso region. Rich in wildlife and natural beauty, this incredible ecosystem attracts thousands of visitors each year, largely due to the variety of wildlife that calls it home.
Photo: Roberto Tetsuo Okamura/Shutterstock
All of the Incredible Animals You Can See at the World's Largest Tropical Wetland
The Pantanal wetland covers more than 77,000 square miles across Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia – making it one of the largest freshwater wetlands in the world. This place is teeming with life, from aquatic creatures such as piraputangas (giant otters) and peixes-boi (manatees) to colorful toucans, macaws, and hawks soaring through the sky. It’s also home to endangered species such as jaguars, giant otters, maned wolves, and capybaras, as well as other species like pumas, ocelots, and tapirs. It’s not uncommon to spot a few caimans (a type of crocodile) lounging along the riverbanks or a troop of capuchin monkeys hooting and chattering in the tree canopy above you.
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In addition to its abundance of wildlife, there are also plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in this incredible place. From fishing trips to horseback riding tours along winding trails, everyone can find something that suits their interests. For those who prefer more relaxed activities, you can go bird watching or camp under starry skies.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during dry season (July-November), you’ll have a chance to witness spectacular sunsets over its vast horizon – a sight that will stay with you a long time. Besides its obvious beauty, the Pantanal is also a great place for learning about conservation efforts in action; here you’ll find several organizations dedicated to protecting this precious ecosystem and its wildlife. 