Floating hotel and pampering: Luxury tourism in Brazil’s Pantanal

How about sailing through the tributaries of the Pantanal aboard a cruise ship with a Jacuzzi, panoramic view, and a gym?

A safari through the region in a 4×4 vehicle includes, among other treats, snacks, coconut water, ponchos, and hot water bags to escape the morning cold.

Traveling to the Pantanal can go far beyond animal sightings and contact with nature.

Amid the richness of the biome, Brazilian tourists have been seeking post-luxury experiences, experiences that combine comfort, sophistication, and immersion in the local culture.

BRAZILIAN POST-LUXURY INVASION

The Caiman Ecological Refuge in Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul, has recently seen its guest statistics change.

Before, it was primarily frequented by foreigners (85%); the post-pandemic occupation is 91.6% Brazilians.

Upon arrival at the centennial farm, the guest is introduced to its concierge and exclusive services.

The employee is responsible for showing each day’s schedule, providing guidance on meal times, and taking possible requests.

The activities include a night focus – a tour where the animals are more active -hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, picnics, and safaris in the company of a biologist specialized in the Pantanal and a native who explains the traditions of the region- the Refuge works in partnership with NGOs such as Onçafari and the Instituto Arara Azul (Blue Macaw Institute).

THE TREATS

Some details make the Pantanal experience even more special: Stanley stainless steel thermos bottles, flashlight, blankets, ponchos, hot water pouch, repellent, and even acrylic glasses – which protect the eyes against the impact of particles and liquids – are made available to tourists during the animal sighting tours.

The safaris, by the way, are done in adapted pickup trucks, which follow the model of the cars used in Africa.

In between tours, guests take the opportunity to throw themselves into the hammocks spread around the garden, have a drink by the pool (there is a wine list with labels from South America and caipirinhas with local fruit), and relax on the cushions on the terrace.

At night, as the temperature drops, the outdoor area with a fire pit is the best place to warm up and enjoy the starry Pantanal sky.

GOURMET CUISINE

There are snacks during the tours with sandwiches, fruits, snacks, coconut water, and natural juices.

The visitor is invited to dive into the regional cuisine, rich in freshwater fish and meat, at the main meals, already included in the daily rate.

All dishes are prepared with select ingredients from local communities and projects harvested from the farm’s plantations – a 53,000-hectare oasis.

There are also options for vegetarians, vegans, and people with other dietary restrictions.

HARVESTING AGRO-FORESTRY

One of the stars of the experience is the Pantanal barbecue. Local cowboys run the event to the sound of “moda de viola” (a type of fiddle) and a lot of typical food.

The prices at the Caiman Ecological Refuge start from R$3,800 (US$728 – daily rate). It is necessary to stay at least three nights.

FLOATING HOTEL, HANDICRAFTS, AND MASTERCHEF

Some prefer to see the region from the box seat, literally. Some cruises go around the North and South Pantanal. The Peralta Cruise boat is one of them.

The boat has been operating since the 1980s, but it was completely renovated in 2017 and received a high-standard structure.

The boat has only ten suites. Decorated with works that portray the Brazilian biome, the rooms have panoramic views, a safe, air conditioning, a private bathroom, treated water, and a minibar.

The cruise has a gym, restaurant, bar and lounge, swimming pool, whirlpool, air-conditioned areas, and internet.

With the idea of immersing the tourist in the Pantanal culture, a team formed by locals performs regional dances and gives handicraft classes.

In gastronomy, more immersion: although contemporary, the menu, signed by chef Daniel Barbosa, a participant in the MasterChef Profissionais 2018, explores typical Pantanal delicacies in a modern and authentic way.

The broth, sashimi, and piranha ceviche are usually a hit among guests, as is the pacu rib.

Visitors can also try the “petisco de jacaré” (breaded alligator cubes served with jelly), the traditional barbecue, and craft beers.

Tourists can do activities off the ship, including hiking, safari, motorboat, and kayak rides. The complete package of the trip, which lasts five days, costs around R$8,800 per person.

With information from UOL