Pousada Rio Mutum

NEED TO KNOW

• 20 simple rooms all have verandas and hammocks overlooking the hotel's gardens
• Pousada do Rio Mutum is situated in the Mato Grosso region, one of the most beautiful areas of the Pantanal, distinguished by a varied landscape of hills, lakes, rivers and grassy plains
• The restaurant serves a regional menu in a rustic setting
• The hotel has adult and children's swimming pools with a panoramic bar
• Other facilities include hammocks slung between mango trees, souvenir and convenience stores, laundry services, Toyota Jeeps for safaris and excursions, motor boats for trips through the bays, canoes and a runway for small aircraft
  

THE HOTEL
As the name indicates Pousada Rio Mutum sits beside the Mutum River, which gradually merges in two large lakes - Sia Mariana and Chachorore.  It is the perfect base from which to explore the Pantanal, the largest swampland in the world and one of South America's top wildlife destinations.

Scattered amongst the Pousada's extensive tropical gardens are twenty two simple yet comfortable cottage-style guest rooms. All are decorated in a cosy traditional style and have private bathrooms and verandas with hammocks - perfect for relaxing and watching the many species of birds flitting amongst the trees.

The real highlight, of course, is the opportunity to explore this unique region. Declared by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve and a Natural Patrimony of Mankind, the Pantanal is the world's largest wetland area - covering approximately 200,000 square kilometres. The Pantanal boasts the largest concentration of fauna in the Americas - Caiman, capybaras, jaguar, Brazilian otters, monkeys, blue macaws, macaws, herons, cormorants, ibises, curassows, parakeets, parrots, toucans, and wood ibises are just some of the wildlife you may encounter during tours with local guides.

We loved the riding, which allowed us to discover areas of the Panatal, which are inaccessible by boat or vehicle. The horses are uniquely adapted to the region, comfortable walking long distances in flooded areas.