In mid July 2012 a small group of Londolozi staff members embarked on the trip of a lifetime. A seven night expedition into the heart of South America. Coming from Londolozi, one of the most majestic wildernesses on earth we were bubbling at the prospect of seeing ‘the other’ ecological haven. Enthused at the opportunity to witness first hand the flora and fauna that we had all heard so much about. Entranced at entering the land of the other spotted cat: the Jaguar.
It’s not only the Jaguar which captures the attention of wildlife enthusiasts. The Giant Anteater is one of the more extraordinary animals I have ever seen.
The destination was the exquisite Caiman Ecological Refuge in the southern regions of the Pantanal. The Pantanal is one of the most immense and biologically rich environments on the planet. Often referred to as the world’s largest freshwater wetland system, it extends through millions of hectares of central-western Brazil, eastern Bolivia and eastern Paraguay. In 2000, the Pantanal was designated a World Natural Heritage and World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Eye level with a Caiman. These reptiles are not nearly as intimidating as the much larger crocodiles and alligators. There are literally thousands of these creatures in the Pantanal
The imposing and magnificent scenery is the habitat of the largest concentration of wildlife in the Americas. It shelters over 650 species of birds, 400 species of fish and 80 species of mammals, many threatened with extinction.
A young Ocelot takes a break from hunting fish on the rocks near to a little stream
In the Pantanal I got to realise my childhood dream. Seeing a Toco Toucan in the wild. It is even more beautiful than even this picture shows. It has to be seen to be believed
Caiman Lodge was established in 1985 as the first ecotourism operation in the Southern Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul. Since then, it has aimed at creating and offering visitors a means of getting close to the Pantanal’s nature and culture, while pursuing excellence in hospitality services and gastronomy. It is a 53 000 hectare ranch that seeks ways to pioneer wild animals living in harmony with the cattle in a working ranch.
The main house at Caiman Ecological Refuge
View of the deck and swimming pool at one of the two lodges at Caiman.
Cattle ranching, introduced into the region more than two hundred years ago, is the main economic activity in the Pantanal, facilitated by the vast natural grasslands and slightly salty water, ideal for these animals.
A typical view of the area in the Pantanal. A wonderful mixture of cattle, horses, indigenous animals and a plethora of spectacular birdlife.
This activity has profoundly marked the landscape, customs and Pantanal soul, creating a rich regional culture, a blend of the Portuguese, indigenous and Paraguayan. The result is an experiecnce so multi faceted that the actual wildlife viewing is just one aspect. It is a unique cultural and sensory overdose.
A cowboy practicing chasing down a Brahman cow. The cowboys add hugely to the dynamic of the Pantanal.
The Caiman Ecological Refuge houses an interpretive center that allows the visitor to learn more about this fascinating landscape
Join us as we review our trip and experiences at the Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Brazillian Pantanal. Through the use of video, photography and writing we hope to paint a picture of what is truly one of the world’s great wonders. The Pantanal Series will explore various aspects, in a series of posts, that will mention how this is a key player in a mentality and approach known as ‘Restoring Eden‘… making giant leaps towards restoring the wild lands on planet earth, expanding protected areas, creating connectivity corridors and ensuring that animals are provided with SPACE to live and thrive. An approach solidly supported and endorsed by all at Londolozi.
Even in the dry season water is everywhere. An aerial view gives you some perspective as to the sheer size of this ranch
The group from top left to right. Bernado (Jaguar Project), Sean Carter, Adam Bannister, Dani Kane-Berman, Erin Puckett, Trisha Siegel, James Crookes
Keep a watch out for the next post in The Pantanal Series where we take a bird’s eye view of the Caiman Ecological Refuge (http://en.caiman.com.br)
Written and photographed by Adam Bannister
Hi Adam,
You lucky fellolw, I am envious!
Kind regards,
Ted.
what an incredible experience for you all…the photos are fantastic!
So fascinating Adam. Thank you for sharing yet another part of the world with us and especially a place like the Caiman Refuge … in alignment with Londolozi’s commitment to “Restoring Eden.” Looking forward to following The Pantanal Series!
Thanks for sharing Adam.
Love the Toucan, what a wonderful bird!
How very exciting for all of you. So looking forward to the rest of the Pantanal Series. The toucan picture was stellar! Thanks as always for sharing your adventures.
very cool ! another “must see” added to the ever growing “bucket list” !
actually a very good problem to have . . .
I look forward to your upcoming posts, Adam. Thank you. It’s great to learn about all of this earth’s wonderful creatures.
Great shots Ad! Love the Toucan.
Would you like me to send you some of my shots of the jaguars we saw?
Wait for post three bud 🙂
Wow Incredibile Pictures….The Toucan is a Stunning Shot!!!…..also I loved the Picture of the Ocelot…well done & it seems like you all had an Amazing time…..:)
Thank You for Sharing,
why almost as facinating as Africa, but not quite.. thank you for sharing. glad you all had a marvelous time..
Hey Adam,
Thank you for visiting us here at the Pantanal and for all the fun.
Great pictures!!
I hope you all had a good time here.
I hope to see you back at the Caiman Ecological Refuge to see more jaguars.
Best wishes.
Helder