Pantanal · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Pantanal: Bolivia's Wetland Wonderland

Explore the untamed beauty of Bolivia's Pantanal, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife and offering unforgettable adventures in nature's paradise.

The Pantanal, located in Bolivia, is one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world. This vast, unspoiled wilderness is a haven for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike. Stretching across the borders of Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia, the Bolivian Pantanal is less frequented by tourists, offering a more serene and intimate experience with nature. The Pantanal is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, including jaguars, capybaras, giant otters, and hundreds of bird species. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when animals gather around the shrinking water sources, making wildlife spotting easier. For bird watchers, the Pantanal is a paradise, with species such as the Hyacinth Macaw and Jabiru Stork gracing the skies. Aside from wildlife viewing, the Pantanal offers a range of activities, including boat safaris, horseback riding, and guided nature walks. These excursions provide a unique way to explore the wetland's diverse ecosystems, from flooded marshes to dense forests. Staying in eco-lodges or traditional pousadas allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings while enjoying comfortable accommodations and local hospitality.

When is the best time to go to Pantanal?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsOct–Mar
Longest daylightSep–Apr
Driest periodJun–Aug

Explore places in Pantanal

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Pantanal sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Amazon Rainforest

    Explore the Amazon Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to unparalleled biodiversity and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Brazil.

    Amazon Rainforest

    The Witches Market

    Explore The Witches Market in La Paz for a cultural experience filled with unique handicrafts, mystical traditions, and local Bolivian treasures.

    The Witches Market

    Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra Hotel

    Discover unparalleled comfort and luxury at the Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra, your gateway to Bolivia's vibrant capital.

    Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra Hotel

    Mirador Killi Killi

    Discover the stunning vistas of La Paz at Mirador Killi Killi, an unforgettable viewpoint that captures the beauty of Bolivia's capital.

    Mirador Killi Killi

    Biocentro Guembe Mariposario

    Discover the enchanting world of butterflies and lush gardens at Biocentro Guembe Mariposario in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a perfect nature escape.

    Biocentro Guembe Mariposario

    La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante

    Experience the serene beauty and culinary delights at La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante, the perfect retreat near Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

    La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante

    Fazenda San Francisco Agro Ecoturismo Safari e Passeio de Chalana

    Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of the Pantanal at Fazenda San Francisco Agro Ecoturismo, your eco-tourism escape in Brazil.

    Fazenda San Francisco Agro Ecoturismo Safari e Passeio de Chalana

    Parque Nacional Amboró

    Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Parque Nacional Amboró, a must-visit national park in Bolivia for nature lovers and adventurers.

    Parque Nacional Amboró

    Parque Nacional Torotoro

    Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Torotoro, a hidden gem in Bolivia perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

    Parque Nacional Torotoro

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Ventura Mall

    Explore Ventura Mall in Santa Cruz: A premier shopping destination with diverse shops, delectable dining, and vibrant entertainment options.

    Ventura Mall

    Las Brisas Mall

    Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Las Brisas Mall in Santa Cruz, a vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike.

    Las Brisas Mall

    The Witches Market

    Discover the magical essence of Bolivia at La Paz's Witches Market, a unique blend of culture, tradition, and extraordinary handicrafts.

    The Witches Market

    Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra Hotel

    Discover unparalleled luxury and convenience at Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra, your gateway to exploring vibrant Bolivian culture and attractions.

    Marriott Santa Cruz de la Sierra Hotel

    Patio Design Lifestyle Center

    Explore the Patio Design Lifestyle Center, a shopping paradise in Santa Cruz de la Sierra blending modern design with Bolivian culture and cuisine.

    Patio Design Lifestyle Center

    7 Calles Shopping Mall

    Discover the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences at 7 Calles Shopping Mall in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

    7 Calles Shopping Mall

    La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante

    Explore the beauty of La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante, a serene escape near Santa Cruz de la Sierra with nature trails and delicious local cuisine.

    La Rinconada Ecoparque y Restaurante

    La Cancha

    Experience the vibrant culture and local flavors at La Cancha, Cochabamba's largest market, where every visit is an adventure.

    La Cancha

    Las Torres Mall

    Discover Las Torres Mall in La Paz, a shopping haven with diverse stores, delicious dining, and entertainment options perfect for every tourist.

    Las Torres Mall

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Salar uyuni 200701.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about Bolivia

    Discover Bolivia: From the peaks of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon, a land of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage awaits.

    Tell me more about Bolivia
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    Explore Pantanal in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Pantanal, south-central South America 5170.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Archivo:Rio Paraguay.jpg - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre
    File:Pantanal, south-central South America 5170.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Yacare Caiman (Caiman yacare) (28742110492).jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Pantanal capybara JF5.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:4987 Pantanal jaguar JF.jpg - Wikipedia

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby country regions around Pantanal, from connected city edges to neighbouring counties, coastlines, and countryside escapes.

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