What to pack for a 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
Notes: You don't need to overpack. You'll probably end up wearing most of the same clothing. What I do is wear light clothing that is quick dry. That way, when I shower at night, I will wash my clothes, and then they are fresh and dry for the next day.
Lightweight, breathable clothing: The Pantanal can be hot and humid, especially during the day. Pack moisture-wicking shirts, long-sleeve shirts for sun protection, and lightweight pants. **We will provide you with a FREE Journey with Jaguars long sleeve SPF50+ shirt, and also a neck buff!
Rain gear: A compact waterproof jacket is essential, as rain can occur. It is unlikely during peak season, but there are around 1-3 days per month when it can be raining, so it is always better to be prepared!
Comfortable walking shoes: The only walking you we do is to and from the port and hotel. So, no hiking boots required, normal runners are more than okay, and prioritise comfort.
Sandals or flip-flops: Useful for relaxing at your lodge or on the boat.
Warm clothing! Please view the 14-day weather forecast for Porto Jofre before your trip. There are some mornings here and there that can be very cold! As you are on the river and the wind when moving, it intensifies the cold. This is maybe 1-2 mornings a month. But always best to be prepared. I'll let you know in advance as I will keep an eye on the forecast for your tour. I would say 97% of the time it won’t be cold at all!
Accessories and Personal Items
Travel Adaptor: The Brazilian power outlet is different from the USA and other countries. So to recharge your camera and phone etc, you will need an adaptor. They cost about US$15 at all airports if you don't already have one.
Wide-brimmed hat or cap: To shield you from the sun when on the river
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from glare and UV rays and also the wind when we are going fast!
High-SPF sunscreen: Essential for sun protection
Insect repellent: The Pantanal has mosquitoes and other insects, however this is more so the lodge, as on the river there no mosquitoes.
Photography Equipment
Note: You do not need to be a photographer or bring this equipment. Most of our guests don’t have cameras and just want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pantanal! So please don’t worry if you do not have any photography gear!
Camera with zoom lens: Anything between 200mm - 600mm will be perfect. I personally spent a whole season there with only a 70-200mm f2.8 and took amazing photos. However, you may find yourself too far away for a 200mm at a time. I exclusively use a 400mm prime and find it is perfect. I prefer it over a 600 prime, as with a 600mm prime, you may find yourself too close a lot of the time.
Laptop: You will want to back up all your photos from your camera to your external hard drive using your computer. You will also need the computer if you wish to view or edit your photos at the end of each day
External Hard Drive: SanDisk 1TB or 2TB. It doesn’t have to be SanDisk, but they are superior, and when it comes to having peace of mind with your photos, I have always trusted SanDisk
Extra batteries and memory cards: To ensure you don’t run out of power or storage. There is no way to charge your battery once we are on the river, so it is always a good idea to have a spare as we are on the river all day! A trusted brand like SanDisk is always good. How many SD cards and their size depend on how many photos you want to take and the megapixels of your camera. A couple of 128GB should be more than enough! It is always good to have spare memory cards just to be safe!
Binoculars: For spotting animals from a distance. These are not a must, if you have them, bring them, I wouldn't be without mine on the river! It is so amazing seeing the wildlife through the binoculars in such great detail!
Monopod: It is okay to bring a monopod. However, please refrain from bringing tripods. They take up too much room on the boat, and they don't actually serve a purpose other than holding the camera. The boat is on water, and there is always a bit of movement, so having a steady hand is the priority. I personally have never used a monopod; it gets in the way, and you have to rely on your hands being steady when taking the shot. i always value the freedom to move around the boat. A monopod restricts this movement.
Documents
Travel documents: Passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance, and copies of reservations.
Guidebook or wildlife references: There is no yellow fever, dengue or malaria where we are going. However, some airlines, depending on where you are flying in from and where you are flying out to, may ask for your yellow fever vaccination certificate.
VISA: As of April 2025, Brazil has introduced a visa for Australian, US and Canadian citizens. Please check if your nationality requires a Visa! You can get the e-visa here https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/
Optional Extras
Small backpack or daypack: To carry your daily essentials for when we are on the river
Notebook or journal: For documenting your sightings and experiences. We also find the experience is very inspiring so it is always handy to have a notepad and pen!
Snacks: Light snacks to keep energy levels up between meals. The jaguar safari is all-inclusive, so you wont go hungry. Lunch is delivered to us fresh on the river every day. However, the heat can be depleting, so protein bars or nuts are always a great idea.
Electrolytes: It can get hot on the river, and sometimes water doesn’t feel like it is hydrating enough. This is where electrolytes help pick you up. We highly recommend.
Health and Safety
Personal medications: Any prescriptions or health supplies you need.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your excursions. We have water on the boat in a cooler! However, it is always a good idea to also bring a water bottle and fill that up with the filtered water at the hotel in the morning.
Final Tips:
Pack light but comprehensive — you'll be more comfortable and mobile.
Remember, the Pantanal’s environment can be unpredictable, so layers and waterproof gear are always recommended.
Respect the wildlife and environment by following your guide’s instructions.
Have fun, be present and soak it all in!
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, witnessing the incredible jaguars and other spectacular wildlife of the Pantanal. Happy packing—and enjoy your jaguar safari with Journey with Jaguars!
