Anyone done Brazil?

[Oopsydaisydo]

Hi, looking to do Brazil next year, not the beaches but a river cruise on the Amazon, and the Pantanal so very much a wildlife adventure although we’ll have a few days in Rio at start or end. Possibly Iguassu falls depending on time as it’s adding more flight days and I’m aware that distances are vast.

Anyone any suggestions as to what they enjoyed/didn’t enjoy/not worthwhile including who to use to organise the trip? There’s quite a few companies that say they specialise in S America but a personal recommendation is good.

Usually I book everything myself but there are too many internal flights, boats, connections so I want a tailored package.

We used Trailfinders. We told them what we wanted to do and see, and they put it all together. It was seamless.
Probably the most expensive holiday we’ve ever done but it was fabulous.

Only the Iguazu Falls on a day trip across the border from Argentina but well worth it - spectacular.

Sorry, can’t help with the Amazon/Pantanal part. But I have been to Iguazu Falls and it was one of the, or perhaps even the most impressive thing I’ve seen (and I’ve travelled a lot). So definitely try to add that in. A whole day is needed on the Argentinian side and half a day on the Brazilian side. Definitely do both sides if you do make it there as such different viewpoints from each. It was 8 years ago but crossing the border was effortless back then with a UK passport.

Also went to Isla Grande which was beautiful and relaxing with delicious food.

I agree that you shouldn’t miss Iguazu Falls. The most spectacular sight I’ve ever seen.

Thanks everyone, Trailfinders was on my list.
I’ve been lucky to see quite a few large falls so I’ve been undecided about putting in the extra travel to/from the Falls but consensus seems like it’s not to be missed!

Pantanal is amazing 100% not to miss and also iguazu. Full day for the Argentinian side and half for Brazilian.
Also loved ihla grande and paratay.
Can’t recommend companies as we did it all ourselves. Absolutely loved Brazil

We did Brazil, Bolivia, Peru and I DIYed it. I don't think it was too complicated but there were a lot of flights. I think it was GOL we used in Brazil.

Pantanal was 100% worth it. We stayed at Araras Eco Lodge and did an add on day trip deeper into jaguar territory. It was phenomenal. We didn't have time to go deeper into the Pantanal, but possibly would if we went again. Amazon we did in Peru and it was somewhat underwhelming compared to the Pantanal, where we had capybara trotting around outside the accommodation . We were in low river season. I would try the amazon in Brazil in high season, to compare, if I went back.

DO NOT SKIP IGUAZU.

I have been to Rio many times and absolutely love it! I’ve also seen iguazu which was awesome!
I'd love to take my daughter to see Rio and the pantanal but not really brave enough to be that far away from civilisation!

@Oopsydaisydo We use Wildlife Worldwide. We have found them excellent and you really do benefit from a company that knows where to stay for wildlife.

Getting to the Pantanal is time consuming. Plus the window for visiting is fairly small. Therefore do make sure you get the best options for the visit. We loved our Amazon basin stay in Ecuador too. (No jaguars though!)

We have also stayed in Rio. Obviously enough to see and do. Iguacu is fantastic. You must see both sides if you go. We also stayed at a small beach resort quite close to Salvador. It’s Praia Do Forte. Small and very Brazilian. Salvador is culturally significant. In addition we did some colonial towns in the Minas Gerais area. We used Audley Travel for this. I’m not sure I would put all this together myself!! If you want wildlife more than any other element, go with Wildlife Worldwide. Very knowledgable and friendly.