Pousada Araras Pantanal Ecolodge

We spotted loads of animals and birds during outings and around the lodge, and the pool came in handy in the heat. Araras eco Lodge is in a beautiful part of the Pantanal, with a couple of lakes where you can watch wildlife. The activities were well organized, from canoeing and hiking to horse riding and day and night safaris. The food was lovely. Such a wonderful, almost magical place.

We only stayed two nights, but it was excellent. There were some good activities and sightings, and the location was wonderful. The rooms were good, the food was great, and the staff were professional.

There’s a good schedule of activities, with plenty of time to rest between them. The staff were attentive without hovering, and the guides were friendly, polite, professional, and very knowledgeable. The nature and range of wildlife here are brilliant, with an incredibly diverse habitat. Meals were plentiful and good quality, with set times for coffee and snacks between them. The rooms aren’t five-star resort luxury, but given where you are, the overall experience still feels five star. I’ve stayed at top-rated lodges in Africa and the USA, and this is one of the best I’ve experienced. A real bucket-list destination.

The wildlife outings were astonishing, and the birds and animals around the lodge were a thrill to see. We still talk about what we saw and did there now that we’re home. Fires meant we were moved here from a lodge much farther south, and we feel fortunate that it happened. Alex was a great guide, knowledgeable and helpful. The food was lovely, tasty homestyle cooking, and a welcome change after all the restaurant meals we’d had. We were truly lucky to spend a few days in such a special place.