The pantanal of Southern Mato Grosso, approximately 140 miles west of Campo Grande, has a diverse landscape of savana lowlands, seasonal wetlands and rich forested areas. The annual rains and flooding cause constant variations in the habits, travel routes and interplay of the abundant wildlife, providing a fascinating pageant for those interested in one of the world's richest natural reserve.
           The Caiman Ecological Refuge is located within this paradise and offers the adventure of face-to-face encounters with a magnificent array of fauna, including: Caiman (native alligator species),Anaconda, American Rhea (three-toed American Ostriches), Hyacinth Macaw, Capybara (Capybara - large river rodent), and Deer.
          The annual convergence of Ibis, Ducks, Storks, Spoonbills, Egrets, Cormorants, Herons and many other species, on their migratory stopovers, is specially interesting. Situated on 53,000 hectare farm, which 7.000 constitute an isolated reserve with a very rich flora and fauna. These areas, together, successfully provide for self sustained development, while at the same time respecting and preserving Nature's species, habitats and cycles.
The Caiman Ecological Refuge is comprised of one main lodge and four additional Lodges situated at strategics points of the ranch, each with its own infrastructure and architectural style, blending in with its distinctive surroundings. The great adventure of discovery begins either at the traditional Caiman and Piúva Lodges (located on the main grounds of the ranch), or on the walking tours to the Baiazinha and Cordilheira Lodges, each about 10 miles from the other. A little further away is the Sao Domingos Lodge, overlooking the Aquidauana River. While traveling through forest and paths, new animals, and new sensations are discovered. Upon arrival at the next destination, the comfort and originality of another Lodge and another view are found. Each Lodge has different program of activities.
 Horseback riding, nocturnal outings, trekking, boat trips and launch, truck and pickup rides. Each activity is accompanied by ecological guides, graduates in Animal Husbandry, Agronomy, Veterinary Medicine and Biology. They are the "Caimaners" who take the guests safely on their Caiman adventures, generously sharing their knowledge, step by step, along the discovery trail. The guests are also accompanied by expert native trail guides who know the land like the back of their hands.
          You will see, close up, in the freedom of their natural habitats, the lazy lolling of the Caimans, the doe-eyed glances of the Pampas Deer, the haughty strut of the American Rhea, the noisy clamor of the Hyacinth Macaws, the privacy of the Capybara families, the sovereignty of the tuiuiús (Jabiru Stork), the rascality of the Toucans, the wadding gait of the Anteater and elegant flight of the Egrets. You will watch Fire Flies creating living Christmas trees and decorating the darkened forest.
You will have the night-time experience of observing and photographing the Caimans, facing upstream with their mouths open, waiting for fish in the darkness. The beautiful, unrivalled Pantanal sunset will thrill you each evening. If you wish to be at peace with yourself, participate in the adventure of discovery at the Caiman of the Pantanal. Here, nature always gets along very well with life.