Built in 1920, the Fazenda Rio Negro, which is located on the shores of the Negro River in the heart of the Pantanal – the largest freshwater wetland on Earth – is a unique old farmhouse that has been converted into a modern tourism lodge. It can be accessed year-round by plane from Aquidauana and Campo Grande or by car during the dry season from July to October.
Project History
In 1999, CI purchased the ranch and 7,700 hectares of protected area, including facilities for scientific research. The primary goal was to gain a better understanding of this highly threatened and vast freshwater wetland. The fazenda also became an excellent location (a) to offer tourists the chance to experience the beauty of the area while providing added revenue for conservation efforts and (b) to provide jobs and income to nearby residents.
Tourists who come to the Fazenda Rio Negro learn firsthand the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem and oftentimes encounter various endangered species, including macaws, giant river otters, anteaters, and even jaguars. Canoeing, horseback riding, and catch-and-release fishing are also activities that tourists enjoy in addition to occasional interactions with researchers and environmentalists who are from all over the world and who use the farm as a base camp for their daily expeditions.
Construction and Operations
The Fazenda Rio Negro is one component of CI’s broader multilateral conservation efforts to protect the Pantanal region of Brazil. Additional efforts to protect this area include support for the creation and management of more than 100,000 hectares of public and private protected areas, assistance with political and legal protection, scientific studies about the biological importance of the area, and environmental education of the surrounding communities.
Transformation of a Community
The essence of the Pantanal highlighted by its magnificent dawns and sunsets over the untouched, pristine landscape. Its charm lies in its simplicity.
IN DEPTH: Explore more ecotourism destinations.
Facilities and Tourist Information
- Accommodations. The Fazenda Rio Negro was the main location for the set of "Pantanal," a famous Brazilian soap opera that was filmed in the 1990s. Since then, it has been operating as a lodge and still maintains its original architectural style. It offers an exclusive experience for up to 42 guests looking for the authentic local lifestyle, the “Pantaneiro” way of life. The fazenda has ample dining and living rooms and spacious verandas. All rooms have a private bathroom and air conditioning.
- Birdwatching. More than 300 species of birds can be observed at the ranch, including endangered hyacinth macaws, jabiru storks, rheas, herons, and roseate spoonbills.
- Wildlife Viewing. Caimans, capybaras, giant river otters, giant anteaters, tapirs, and many more species are often spotted in the vicinity of the fazenda, even the occasional jaguar.
- Canoe Trips and Horseback Riding. River excursions can be enjoyed by motorboat or in canoes with refreshing river dips. Tourists can also ride horses and enjoy the beautiful areas adjacent to the fazenda.
- Interaction with Field Biologists. Tourists may have an opportunity to discover more on conservation issues with researchers on site. Depending on scientists’ schedules, tourists may be able to help collect data and experience a more intimate relationship with the Pantanal wildlife.
For more information, please contact:
Fazenda Rio Negro
Rua Paraná 32
Jd. Dos Estados – Campo Grande
Mato Grosso do Sul – Brazil
ZIP 79021-220
Tel./Fax +55 (67) 3326-0002
Tel.+55 (67) 686 1031
Email: rionegro@conservation.org.br
Website: www.fazendarionegro.com.br