Hotel Pantanal Norte

Set at the very end of the Transpantaneira Park Road on the banks of the Cuiabá River, this family-owned hotel, with its traditional regional ambiance, offers simple lodging in the heart of the Pantanal. The birding is excellent here (lots of hyacinth macaws) and it's one of the best areas for viewing free-ranging jaguars in their natural habitat. Rooms have either garden or river views and share a veranda with an adjoining casita. The restaurant serves local dishes, buffet style, and there are lounges for TV viewing and computer access, plus a games room offering a pool table, card games, library, chess, and dominoes. The staff is especially friendly and helpful.