Fazenda Barranco Alto

Location: Fazenda Barranco Alto is situated on a large cattle ranch in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Located on the banks of Rio Negro, far away from everything, it offers a unique encounter with the landscape and wildlife of the Pantanal. With very little human influence, Fazenda Barranco Alto follows nature’s rhythm, which is defined by the seasonal flooding.

How to get here: Fly to Campo Grande (CGR) and take a road transfer of about 6 hours during the dry season or an 1-hour scenic flight. The farm is located 5 hours to the north of Miranda and 4 hours to the north of Aquidauana, along a single track going deep into the mashes, which is half paved and half unpaved. If you are coming from Bonito by land, it will take you around 6,5 hours (via Aquidauana). Not recommend driving alone, as the last 70 km of the route is an unmarked track, and it is very easy to get lost. There is no phone signal on the way.  

Structure: There are 6 simple en-suite rooms, each with air conditioning, hot water shower and WiFi. There is a living room, outdoor terraces and hammocks to chill and socialize. Three meals a day are served around a large, communal table. 

From December to March, access by land is difficult, the vegetation is in full growth,and animals stay hidden. The landscape is vividly-coloured. There are mango and bacupari juice. 

From April to July it is the dry season with colder days. The hyacinth macaw and other birds gather in large groups for socializing. The pink trumpet tree adorn the landscape flowers.

From August to November animals come out of the forests and it is easier to spot them. It is possible to see a lot of babies. 

What animals can you see: jaguars and pumas, capybaras and pampas deer, young jabirus and parakeets, giant anteater, armadillo and much more.

Why staying here: One of the most immersive Pantanal farms. Great choice for family holidays and those looking for privacy. The Brazilian wetlands of the Pantanal is where you need to be for up-close encounters with giant anteaters, big and little cats, armadillos and the most vibrant bird life. Life in the wild certainly isn’t quiet! Getting to spend time with the local cowboys is a real treat as their levels of horsemanship are astounding. And they know how to produce the most incredible barbeques.