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Explore the wild soul of the Pantanal on this incredible photography journey in Brazil. A full immersion in Porto Jofre in search of the majestic jaguar and the most significant fauna of Mato Grosso.
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€ 1.000,00
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In the heart of Brazil, hidden between flooded savannahs And floating forests, it extends the Pantanal: the largest alluvial ecosystem on the planet and one of the places with the largest concentration of wildlife in the world. In this natural paradise, shaped by the seasons and the slow movements of the water, life moves according to ancient rhythms, and every encounter can turn into a documentary scene.
Here, along the meanders of the Cuiabá River and near the iconic Port Jofre, lives the highest density of jaguars in the world. There is no other place on Earth where it is so likely to be observed and photographed while hunting, swimming, moving elegantly along the banks of the river or interacting with other specimens. Our latest trips have given us over 35 jaguar sightings, some at such close range that they take your breath away.
But the Pantanal is much more than jaguars. It is the kingdom of giant otters, of the capybara, of the alligators, of the tapirs and an extraordinary variety of tropical birds. Toucans, ibis, jabiru, owls, blue macaws and dozens of other species fill the sky with colors and songs, creating a scene that seems unreal.
This is one of the few remaining areas where the nature is still master, where the night silence it is interrupted only by the wild calls of the forest, and where every moment seems to carry with it the promise of something extraordinary.
A trip to the Pantanal is atotal immersion: not only in photography, but in a living, powerful and fragile ecosystem.
Michele Bavassano
Sharon Vanadia
A trip designed to maximize sightings of South America's big cats, while fully respecting the environment and the rhythms of nature.
For five full days we will explore the Pantanal's richest wildlife areas by private boat, moving at dawn and in the late afternoon, the moments in which jaguars and other predators They are more active along the banks of rivers.
Thanks to the experience of our local guides and the constant presence of a professional photographer, we will be able to read the forest's signals, anticipate predators' movements, and position ourselves precisely to capture authentic behaviors: hunting, swimming, patrolling territories, and interactions between individuals.
Our boats are for exclusive use, with a maximum of 5 photographers on board, ensuring freedom of movement, silence, and optimal shooting angles in every situation. We'll experience the Pantanal from a privileged perspective, away from the most crowded areas, with the option of staying in camp all day when conditions are favorable.
In addition to the jaguar, we will have excellent opportunities to observe capybaras, caimans, tapirs, coatis, giant anteaters, howler and capuchin monkeys, anacondas, and one of the richest avifaunas on the continent, including toucans, herons, ibises, hyacinth macaws, and the spectacled owl.
A unique water safari, designed to offer total immersion in the wild nature of the Pantanal.
No problem: this trip is also perfect for those who simply want to immerse yourself in the most authentic nature of Brazil, enjoying the experience on board, far from the frenetic pace of the world. No professional equipment is needed, just passion, respect, and wonder.
During the six days on the river, we will live a complete photographic experience, with full-day sessions on private boat, taking advantage of every moment of the day to search for and photograph jaguars during their hours of activity.
Thanks to the total itinerary flexibility, it will also be possible to organize short mid-day returns, to relax on board, review the shots, or simply enjoy the peace of the river in the company of a coffee and the sounds of nature.
Our boats are designed for photographers: wide, stable and low profile, allow for perfect framing and an ideal perspective on the water level. Each boat hosts maximum 6 photographers, so as to guarantee everyone operating space and total freedom of movement.
On board, we will be accompanied by Highly qualified local guides, with years of experience in nature photography and collaborations with documentaries for Netflix, National Geographic And BBC. No one knows the Pantanal and its creatures better: their ability to read tracks and predict animal behavior will be essential to optimize each outing.
Photography will be the protagonist, but always in balance with the environment and the well-being of animals. Our goal is to experience nature in an authentic, respectful and profound way.
Late August is considered the best time of year to photograph the jaguarWater is scarce, the climate is stable, and visibility is exceptional. A perfect combination for close-up encounters and optimal photographic conditions.
Sharing a safari makes the experience even more special.
This itinerary is perfect even for those who don't take photographs and simply want to experience an authentic safari In Brazil. The activities follow the same pace as traditional tourist safaris, but with more relaxed schedules, longer stops, and a special focus on wildlife observation.
Anyone accompanying a photographer will never feel out of place: the beauty of the tropical landscapes, the close encounters with the fauna, and the thrills of the Pantanal are experiences that captivate everyone.
For the double bookings (couples or friends sharing a room) are available dedicated discounts.
Contact us to receive the offer reserved for your travel dates.
We will live immersed in the heart of the Pantanal, sleeping directly on our private ship: a fascinating and unforgettable experience, which will allow us to wake up in the perfect position to leave at dawn, without long transfers.
The ship was designed to unite comfort and immersion in nature: each cabin is equipped with air conditioning, private bathroom And large windows overlooking the river. Common areas include a Panoramic lounge area, one small swimming pool on the bridge and a excellent cuisine, where hot, tasty and carefully prepared dishes will be served every day.
At night, lulled by the sounds of the forest, we will experience the emotion of a silent Pantanal, illuminated only by the moon and stars. An intimate and authentic connection with this extraordinary ecosystem, far from any interference.
The on-board experience is also perfect for those who wish relax between one outing and another, enjoying quiet spaces, reading in a hammock, and moments of sharing with other travellers.
It is possible to request accommodation in single cabin (subject to availability).
Find out how the days will unfold and which activities make up the experience
Arrival in Sao Paulo (GRU) and transfer to the hotel
Arrival at the airport according to your flight schedule and transfer to the hotel.
Free afternoon to rest after the long journey and prepare for the next trip. Dinner on your own and overnight stay. double room with private bathroom.
Transfer to the heart of the Pantanal
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport for the domestic flight from São Paulo to Cuiabá.
Upon arrival, we will meet our local team and set off towards the Pantanal along one of Brazil's most iconic nature routes.
The first ones 100 km they will take us to the town of Poconé, the gateway to the Pantanal.
From here begins the famous Transpantaneira, a 150km dirt track and 122 bridges which crosses swamps, savannas and forests rich in fauna.
Along the way we will already have excellent sighting opportunities: swamp deer, coatis, tapirs, anacondas, anteaters, armadillos, maikongs, as well as numerous birds including toucans and hyacinth macaws.
Arrival in Porto Jofre in the late afternoon, settling into our lodge-boat, dinner, and a briefing on the program.
Overnight stay in double room with private bathroom.
Breakfast at dawn and departure by private boat for five days entirely dedicated to exploring the Pantanal's waterways richest in jaguars.
One of the great advantages of this trip is the possibility of adapt the rhythm of the days Depending on the conditions, the group's energy levels, and sightings, we may choose to stay on the river for full day of 10–12 hours, when conditions are particularly promising, or divide the day into two separate sessions, returning to the accommodations in the central hours for a hot lunch and a moment of rest.
Sleeping on the lodge boats docked directly on the river, we are located just a few minutes from the best sighting points: this means that it is not necessary to stay out all day for fear of missing opportunities, and that returning at mid-day It does not affect photographic possibilities in the slightest. Unlike other, more distant lodges, where each journey requires a long time, here we can manage our trips with great flexibility, always maintaining maximum efficiency.
During these days, we'll follow the Cuiabá, Três Irmãos, and Piquiri rivers, observing signs, fresh tracks, and typical predator behavior. Local guides, among the most experienced in the area, will work closely with the tour leader to anticipate animal movements and position the boat optimally for photography.
In addition to the jaguars, we will have excellent opportunities to meet giant otters, capybara, alligators, tapirs, howler and capuchin monkeys, anteaters, anacondas and an incredible variety of tropical birdlife.
Return is expected by 6:00 PM, followed by dinner, relaxation, and, for those who wish, an evening photo review.
Overnight stay in double room with private bathroom.
Breakfast and last boat trip to once again search for jaguars and other iconic species of the Pantanal.
Return to Porto Jofre and transfer along the Transpantaneira to Cuiabá.
Arrival at the hotel, accommodation and free dinner.
Overnight stay in double room with private bathroom.
Breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport and domestic flight Cuiabá – São Paulo.
From here, connection with the return intercontinental flight.
For those who wish to make the experience in the Pantanal even more complete, a 5-night extension departing August 30th accompanied by specialized local guides, without the presence of tour leader Just Explorers.
The itinerary combines two extraordinary and very different areas:
North Pantanal – 2 nights
After the main tour concludes, you'll move to a more remote area of the northern Pantanal, accessible by boat. Here you'll stay in a lodge immersed in pristine nature, a short distance from an area where the Chrysocyon It is observed regularly, especially at sunset. In this region there are also frequent sightings of giant otter, hyacinth macaw, toucans, kingfishers and numerous colourful birds of prey and passerines.
South Pantanal – 3 nights
Next you will fly to the South Pantanal, one of the best areas in Brazil to photograph the giant anteater. The itinerary also includes a visit to the famous colony of red macaw, a breathtaking natural spectacle. Other commonly observed species include tamanduas, peccaries, pampas deer, rheas, coatis, and a wide variety of birdlife.
Logistics and costs
The extension is organized entirely by our local team, including transfers, guides and activities. final cost varies based on the number of participants. Upon request, it is possible to include a private charter flight between North and South Pantanal to avoid long land transfers.
For more information, updated prices or to express your interest, contact us directly: we will be happy to send you all the details.
Participants must arrive August 22nd at the international airport São Paulo – Guarulhos (GRU).
It is possible to land at any time of the day, as the first night will be spent in a hotel in Sao Paulo.
Depending on your arrival time, a shuttle will be available to take you to the hotel, or you can easily get around on your own.
If you prefer travel together with other participants or coordinate with the tour leader, you can contact us and we will help you check for any coincidences between the different arrival times.
The morning of August 3rd we will fly from Cuiabá to São Paulo.
For this reason, any international flight departing from late afternoon to evening will be compatible with the return.
Before purchasing tickets, it is obligatory send to Just Explorers:
flight number,
departure and arrival time,
flight date.
This allows us to verify the accuracy of connections and prevent logistical problems.
We advise against buying flights more than 6 months in advance, as airlines may change schedules and operations.
The ideal is to buy tickets 3–4 months before departure, or even closer if you can find good rates.
For the internal flight São Paulo ↔ Cuiabá we recommend you to contact us directlyWe will guide you in choosing the right route and ideal times.

Passionate about nature, he travels in search of the perfect shot, exploring pristine areas around the world. Through his camera he tries to share moments and emotions. Michele defines his photography as “A search for art in nature”. He works as a professional photographer and proposes events in the most interesting and important destinations in Italy and abroad. His images have been used by Discovery, BBC, ENEL and have been published in numerous magazines around the world.

Born in Rome in 1994, she has always shown a great passion for nature and photography. After obtaining a degree in Biological Sciences with a specialization in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, she decided to dedicate herself completely to her passion, becoming a professional photographer. He organizes nature workshops and tours around the world, combining his scientific knowledge with his artistic ability. Thanks to her experience in the field, she has become a leading figure in the industry, actively contributing to raising awareness of nature conservation through her art."














Discover all the places and views that you can admire during this trip. All the material shown here comes from our trips














Absolutely not. The trip is open to everyone, and no photography experience is necessary. You can participate as a simple nature lover and experience a complete and well-organized safari, identical to a’traditional tourist experience but with a more leisurely pace and greater attention to animal observation.
If you want, this tour It can also be an opportunity to get closer to nature photography: You'll have a professional photographer by your side, ready to explain techniques and tips in a simple and natural way. Upon request, you can also rent a complete photography kit directly through Just Explorers, so you can enjoy your first experience with the right equipment.
And if you prefer not to take pictures, no problem: The Pantanal, the light, the animals, and the tropical atmosphere are emotions that can be experienced intensely even just with your eyes… or with your cell phone.
Signing up will be very simple.
Just follow the booking procedure by clicking on “Book Now”. After entering your personal information, you will only be asked to pay a deposit, not the full cost of the trip. Once completed, you will receive a confirmation email and your registration will be officially registered. The balance will be due according to the terms indicated at the top of the page, generally 60 days before departure.
In the days leading up to the trip you will be placed in a dedicated WhatsApp group, useful for receiving quick communications, staying in touch with the support team and interacting directly with your tour leader. You will also be sent a PDF with all the final instructions, including practical information on what to bring, logistical details, and helpful tips to help you prepare for the experience.
For this experience we recommend using cameras reflex, mirrorless or bridge matched with objectives between 200 mm and 600 mmThis focal length range allows you to obtain sharp, well-proportioned images with an excellent level of detail.
During the safaris we will mainly shoot from the low profile open boat, which will allow us to be close to the water surface for shots with the right shooting point; no tripod is needed. It is instead very useful a monopod, ideal for resting the telephoto lens during shots (you can ask us for all the necessary information).
Throughout the journey you will be accompanied by a professional photographer specializing in wildlife and nature photography, always available to help you optimize the use of your equipment. You will receive personalized advice on technique, composition, light management, camera settings and much more, so you can make the most of every photographic opportunity.
No problem! We still recommend that you bring with you a pair of binoculars, ideal for wildlife observation. You can also record videos or take suggestive images with your smartphone: Brazilian nature will give you unforgettable moments, even without a telephoto lens.
In the Pantanal temperatures can vary significantly between the early hours of the morning and the rest of the day, so it is useful to wear layered clothing that allows for rapid adaptation to climate change. lightweight, breathable and comfortable are ideal, preferably long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to ensure protection from the sun and insects. sweatshirt or light jacket It's perfect for morning outings, while during the hottest hours summer clothes will suffice.
A hat, sunglasses and a good sunscreen They are essential during boat safaris, where the light can be intense, as are comfortable footwear suitable for humid environments.
After registration you will receive a Detailed PDF with all the final advice on clothing, useful accessories, and recommended equipment, so you can best prepare yourself for your Pantanal experience.
By booking by paying the deposit to the organizers you accept the following clauses:
1. Since this is a pre-registration, the organizer will endeavor to promptly communicate any possible change in the price of the tour, characterized by cost fluctuations. An annual price fluctuation of around 5% is highly likely if booking is made more than one year in advance. in relation to potential changes in prices of ground services (for example changes influenced by fluctuating costs of electricity, fuel and more).
2. The price of the entire workshop will be paid via the payment methods offered by the organizer, such as bank transfer, PayPal, credit card or cash according to the procedures and deadlines established by the organizers, taking charge of the transaction costs.
3. In the event that the tour does not take place due to the organiser, the entire amount paid will be refunded.
4. In case of cancellation for personal reasons of any kind and in any case not dependent on the organizer, the deposit and any other registration fees will be retained as a reimbursement of expenses.
5. In case of cancellation for personal reasons within 60 days of departure, the entire balance of the tour will be required.
By registering, paying the deposit and sending your personal data you again accept clauses 1,2,3,4,5.
We will reply to you by email as soon as possible
Sabina Capoferri16/04/2024Mio marito ed io abbiamo partecipato al viaggio in Costa Rica organizzato da Just Explorers con Michele Bavassano e Sharon Vanadia. Esperienza fotografica fantastica, ottima organizzazione e professionalità. Un viaggio completo che comprende i Lowlands e Highlands per poter vedere e fotografare un'enorme varietà di specie diverse. Consigliamo vivamente di fare quest'esperienza. Conserveremo un ottimo ricordo e sicuramente faremo altri viaggi con loro!wouter faasse08/04/2024We hebben genoten van de workshop in Costa Rica. Alles was goed geregeld van de lodges en het eten tot aan de foto sessies. Dit was onze 4e reis met Sharon en Michele en zeker niet de laatste!ANDREA MAZZOLI04/04/2024Costa Rica Tropical Wildlife - Just Explorer con Michele BAVASSANO e Sharon VANADIA. Un viaggio fotografico nell’entroterra del Costa Rica appagante e appassionante, che consiglio a tutti i fotografi, perché in grado di regalare momenti e scatti esaltanti !!gian luca Toncelli03/04/2024che dire …. è stata per me la quinta esperienza Wild Life con Michele e Sharon, ed e’ proprio grazie a loro ed alla loro straordinaria professionalità che ogni volta imparo sempre di più….. ma soprattutto sono persone fantastiche disponibili ed estremamente preparate. grazie davvero !!!! non vedo l’ora di ripartire con loro !!! una nuova avventura mi aspetta !!! l’ho gia’ prenotata!!! e sarà l’ennesima nuova meravigliosa esperienza Wild life pura !!!!! grazie ragazzi 💪💪💪marcondes pereira03/03/2024WE HAD A DREAM TRIP. ALL PLANNING AND LOGISTICS CARRIED OUT VERY WELL, INCLUDING THE CHOICE OF THE SUITABLE LOCATION AND TIME OF YEAR TO COME INTO CONTACT WITH INCREDIBLE ANIMALS AND STUPENDOUS LANDSCAPE, ALL IN COMPLETE SAFETY AND WITH THE COMPANY OF EXPERIENCED GUIDES. PERFECT FOR ENJOYING NATURE AND MAKING NEW FRIENDS. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.TIVEMOS UMA VIAGEM DOS SONHOS. TODO PLANEJAMENTO E LOGÍSTICA MUITO BEM REALIZADO, INCLUINDO A ESCOLHA DO LOCAL E ÉPOCA DO ANO ADEQUADOS PARA ENTRAR EM CONTATO COM INCRÍVEIS ANIMAIS E ESTUPENDAS PAISAGENS, TUDO COM TOTAL SEGURAÇA E CONTANDO COM A COMPANHIA DE EXPERIENTES GUIAS. PERFEITO PARA APRECIAR A NATUREZA E FAZER NOVOS AMIGOS. ALTAMENTE RECOMENDÁVEL.Virginio Passera26/02/2024Mi è stato regalato il workshop "Winter gran paradiso" dai miei familiari, regalo azzeccatissimo,sono stati 4 giorni intensi e meravigliosi nella splendida Valsavarenche.I nostri accompagnatori Sharon e Jonathan sono stati splendidi,sempre disponibili per consigli e suggerimenti su come scattare e avvicinare gli animali presenti.consigliatissimoWanda Serrao25/02/2024Gran Paradiso, 4 giorni meravigliosi, Sharon e Jonathan bravissimi, molto competenti e professionali, oltre che simpaticissimi. Posti meravigliosi dove è stato possibile fotografare stambecchi, camosci, volpi avvicinandoci con rispetto ma garantendo ottime posizioni per lo scatto. Consiglierei a chiunque di fare workshop con loro.JOAQUIN FUENTES05/02/2024Michele and Sharon were the best hosts a photographer could ask for. They are two of my heroes and are some of the best wildlife photographers in the world. This was the trip of a lifetime! We had luxury accommodations and 5 star meals daily. Each photographer had our own row in the vehicles. Highly recommend booking with Michele through his official website if you’re interested in any type of wildlife photography tour. We had all advanced photographers on our trip, but I understand that all levels are welcome to join. What a fun group and experience! Note that the all inclusive photography experience actually cost much less than what you would have to pay on your own! It would have cost around twice as much to reserve the rooms, transfers and private vehicle for a week. I’m really looking forward to my next tour with Michele and Sharon!Josef Gelernter04/02/2024It was truly an amazing and unforgettable experience ! Extremely well organized and managed ! I have to thank Sharon and Michele for their wonderful support and guidance ! They both are not only fantastic photographers, but also wonderful tour leaders ! I would go on any tour with them as it is well worth every single penny spent ! Thank you for everything from the bottom of my heart Sharon and Michele and see you very soon on another of your tours ! All the best ! JoeFrancesca Baravelli02/12/2023Ho partecipato al workshop Winter sibillini con Jonathan e Michele, è stato tutto emozionante, divertente e professionale. Due giorni fuori dalla realtà immersi in un contesto paesaggistico unico nel suo genere. Assolutamente da consigliare a tutti gli amanti della natura e della fotografia naturalistica!Valutazione complessiva Google 5.0 su 5, in base a 148 recensioni
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