External Reviews
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Frommers Guide This south Pantanal farm lies on the Rio Negro, in a region known for its landscape of small salt lakes (called salinas) and freshwater ponds, as well as its large populations of animals and birds. The owner has counted 407 bird species so far; hyacinth macaws are common, as are trogons, jacamars, toucans, raptors, and many other species. There are also several mammal species; the property spreads along 15km (9 miles) of the Rio Negro, and so provides an excellent habitat for capybara and giant river otters. Jaguars are also spotted frequently by the river (but no guarantees). The best time to visit is from March to October. For migrant birds the best months are July to October. All tours are accompanied by either the owner, Lucas Leuzinger (who has a masters in biology), or his wife Marina (who has a master's in agronomy), together with local Pantanal guides. Tours are customized to the wishes of guests, but can include horseback riding to spot animals, or watching the daily work of the cowboys on the farm, or trips by jeep in search of tapirs, anteaters, marsh deer, giant otters, and others. There are also swimming, fishing, and canoeing on the Rio Negro. Bird-watching is also popular. The farm guesthouse has a triple and three doubles, all simply but comfortably furnished with firm double or single beds. All rooms have a private veranda. There are never more than nine guests on the farm.