Guest Post by Debbie Jordan

“There he is, there he is!” This was our excited guide’s voice seeing the jaguar in the open. Many times you could only see the grass moving or no indication, but as the jaguars move down the river bank looking for caimans, they can be somewhat predictable. The boat drivers were unbelievably skilled at getting photographers in place for spectacular shots.

Photos by Debbie Jordan

The Pantanal of Brazil. One of the very most memorable wildlife experiences of my career! Along with seven intrepid Holbrook travelers and Nicole Sullivan from our operations team, we celebrated Holbrook’s 50th Anniversary while visiting the world’s largest wetland. 

Photos by Nicole Sullivan

We were met in Cuiabá by our knowledgeable Brazilian guide, Tom Proeca. Born and raised in Poconé, Tom taught us so much about this unique ecosystem and its residents. So much wildlife! Jaguars were the main attraction, and during our four nights at Jaguar Suites on the Piquire River, we had 16 sightings of 13 individuals during twice-daily boat trips. 

Photos by Debbie Jordan and Nicole Sullivan

But there were so many more interesting behaviors to watch at close range, such as the iconic Jabiru male filling his giant bill with water and coming back to the nest to cool the female and eggs. We witnessed this from the eye level observation tower at Southwild Pantanal Lodge, where we spent two nights. 

Photos by Debbie Jordan

Capybaras! Ocelots! Hyacinth Macaws! Giant River Otters! The practically moose-sized South American Tapir crossing the river (twice) and jaguars stalking caimans. And so many cool birds like the White Woodpecker and so many different hawks. We saw 129 species during our 9-day journey. 

Photos by Debbie Jordan and Nicole Sullivan

I almost forgot to mention the deer, crab-eating foxes and two monkey species. Even a water buffalo, a giant anteater and a rare jaguarundi crossed our path. 

Photos by Debbie Jordan

I can tell you, it’s difficult to choose from my 3,500 photos! But that is a drop in the bucket compared to other photographers, there are so many great photo opportunities. 

Photos by Debbie Jordan

June is an excellent time to go, the weather is dry and can be cool. One surprising morning we experienced 58 degrees, warming up to the high 70s. Just delightful. I want to go back!