What to pack for your Jaguar Safari in the Pantanal!

Embarking on a jaguar safari in the lush and expansive Pantanal with Journey with Jaguars is an extraordinary adventure that promises unforgettable wildlife encounters. Packaging thoughtfully is essential to ensure you’re well-prepared for this unique experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to bring for your jaguar safari!

Clothing and Footwear

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: The Pantanal can be hot and humid, especially during the day. Bring moisture-wicking shirts, lightweight long sleeves for sun protection, and breathable pants.
  You’ll receive a FREE Journey with Jaguars long-sleeve SPF50+ shirt to keep you protected and comfortable out on the water.

• Rain gear: While rain is rare during peak season, it’s not impossible—expect 1–3 rainy days per month. A compact waterproof jacket is a smart addition to your bag. Better to have it and not need it!

• Comfortable walking shoes: No hiking boots necessary. The only walking we do is between the port and the lodge. A pair of comfortable runners or sneakers is perfect—prioritize comfort over ruggedness.

• Sandals or flip-flops: Ideal for relaxing around the lodge or on the boat.

• Warm clothing! While it’s warm most of the time, there are occasional chilly mornings—especially on the river where windchill can bite. This might happen 1–2 days a month, and I’ll monitor the forecast and let you know if it’s expected. If you're curious about seasonal weather patterns, check out our Best Time to Go guide.

• Notes: You don’t need to overpack. In fact, you’ll probably end up rotating through the same few outfits. What works best for me—and what I recommend—is packing lightweight, quick-dry clothing.

Accessories and Personal Items

• Travel Adaptor: Brazil uses a different power outlet than the US and many other countries. To charge your camera, phone, and other gear, you’ll need a plug adaptor. If you don’t have one already, you can pick one up at most airports for around US$15.

• Wide-brimmed hat or cap: Crucial for sun protection while we’re out on the river. A hat with a wide brim gives the best coverage.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from glare, UV rays, and the wind—especially when we’re cruising at speed on the boat.

• High-SPF sunscreen: A must. Bring a strong, water-resistant sunscreen to protect your skin throughout the day.

• Insect repellent: There are mosquitoes and other insects in the Pantanal, but mostly around the lodge area—not out on the river. Still, it’s worth having a good repellent for early mornings and evenings.

📄 Essential Documents

Make sure you have the following ready before your trip:

✅ Travel Documents

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Visa (if required – see below)

• Travel insurance

• Copies of flight reservations, lodge booking, and other key documents (digital + printed backups recommended)

• 💉 Yellow Fever Vaccination

  There is no yellow fever, dengue, or malaria in the area we’ll be visiting. However, some airlines (depending on your travel route) may require proof of yellow fever vaccination for boarding or onward travel. It’s wise to carry your vaccination certificate just in case.

  🛂 Visa Requirements (Important!)

  As of April 2025, Australia, USA, and Canada citizens must obtain a visa to enter Brazil.
  Check your nationality’s requirements and apply for the e-visa at:
  👉 https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/

Tip: Apply early to avoid any last-minute stress. (At least 4 weeks prior to arrival)

Photography Equipment

• Note: You do not need to be a photographer to enjoy this trip. In fact, most of our guests don’t bring cameras—they simply come to soak in the beauty of the Pantanal. So if you don’t have any photography equipment, don’t worry at all! But if you’re into wildlife photography (or want to try), here’s what I recommend:

📸 Camera with Zoom Lens

A lens in the 200–600mm range is ideal. I personally spent a whole season with just a 70–200mm f/2.8 and got amazing results.
These days, I use a 400mm prime, which I find perfect—unlike a 600mm prime, which can be too close in certain situations.

TL;DR: If you have a zoom in the 100–500mm or 200–600mm range, you’re golden.

💻 Laptop

Useful for backing up and editing photos at the end of each day. You’ll need this to transfer images from your camera to an external hard drive.

• 💾 External Hard Drive

  I recommend SanDisk 1TB or 2TB drives—they’ve always been reliable for me, and peace of mind is key when storing irreplaceable wildlife shots.

  🔋 Extra Batteries + Memory Cards

  We’re out on the river all day, with no way to recharge. Bring at least one spare battery.
  As for memory cards: a couple of 128GB cards should be more than enough. Trusted brands like SanDisk are a safe bet.

🔭 Binoculars

Not essential—but if you have a pair, bring them! Seeing a jaguar or giant otter in crisp detail is unforgettable. I never go out without mine.

⚠️ Monopods & Tripods

Tripods are a no-go—they take up too much space on the boat and don’t help on water due to natural movement.
Monopods are allowed, but honestly, I don’t use one myself. I prefer the freedom to move around the boat, and a monopod can get in the way. A steady hand and good technique will serve you better out here.

🎒 Optional Extras

These aren’t essential, but they can make your experience even more enjoyable:

Small Backpack or Daypack

Perfect for carrying your daily essentials while we’re out on the river.

Notebook or Journal

Many guests find this trip deeply inspiring. A small notebook is great for recording wildlife sightings, thoughts, or reflections from the day.

Snacks

The jaguar safari is all-inclusive, and you’ll be well fed—fresh lunches are delivered to the boat daily.
Still, the heat can drain energy. Bringing a few protein bars, trail mix, or nuts is always a smart idea.

Electrolytes

It gets hot out there, and sometimes water alone doesn’t cut it. Electrolyte tablets or powders can help keep your energy and hydration levels up.

Water Bottle

We provide water on the boat in a cooler, but it’s still a good idea to bring your own refillable water bottle. You can fill it with filtered water at the hotel each morning before heading out.

• 🩺 Health & Safety

  Personal Medications

  Bring any prescription medications or personal health supplies you need.
  If you have allergies, asthma, or other conditions, pack what you may require in remote areas—just in case.

  🧳 Final Tips for Packing

  • Pack light, but cover the essentials — you’ll feel more comfortable and flexible throughout the trip.

  • The Pantanal’s weather can be unpredictable, so layers and light waterproof gear are always a good idea.

  • Respect the wildlife and natural environment by listening to your guide and keeping a safe distance from all animals.

  • Be present. Soak it all in.

    This is one of the most beautiful, wild places on Earth—and you’re about to experience it up close.