FAQ

THESE ARE SOME OF THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VARIOUS SUBJECTS REGARDING OUR TOURS. AS ALWAYS, DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE FURTHER DOUBTS.

Is a travel visa required to enter Brazil?

Brazil has recently updated its visa policy. Travelers from the USA, Canada, and Australia are required to obtain an e-visa prior to arrival. Most other nationalities do not need a visa, but requirements can change, so we recommend checking our blog post for the most up-to-date and detailed information.

What is the maximum number of participants?

All of our fixed-departure trips are limited to a maximum of 6 participants, with no exceptions. We intentionally keep groups small to maximize photographic opportunities and ensure personalized attention for each guest.

Is there a minimum number of participants?

Yes. Our fixed-departure tours require a minimum of 2 or 3 participants, depending on the trip (as specified on each tour page). If the minimum is not reached, we will contact confirmed guests to offer the option of a small-group supplement so the trip can still operate.
Custom (private) tours do not have a minimum number of participants.

Are the trips suitable for non-photographer companions?

Yes. We often welcome non-photographer companions, and as long as they enjoy nature and wildlife, they usually have a great experience. However, it’s important to note that these are photo-focused tours, which may involve spending long periods in the same location to wait for ideal light or animal behavior. Non-photographers should be comfortable with this slower pace.

Are the trips suitable for children?

In most cases, no. These trips involve long hours in the field, extended periods of waiting (often in silence), heat, insects, and challenging conditions typical of wildlife photography. Older children with a strong interest in wildlife and nature photography may be considered, but generally these tours are not recommended for children.

Is there a minimum age for fixed-departure tours?

Yes. The minimum age is 14 years old. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Is crime an issue in the areas we visit?

No. The regions we visit, as well as the lodges we use, are considered safe. As with travel anywhere in the world, normal precautions with personal belongings are advised in airports and other public areas.

What level of photography experience is required?

All levels are welcome—from absolute beginners to highly experienced photographers. If you have limited technical knowledge, you’ll receive hands-on guidance throughout the trip so you don’t miss key photographic opportunities.

What type of photography assistance is provided?

One of the most important aspects of our guidance is placing you in the right location at the right time. In wildlife photography, good light and strong situations account for most great images.
In addition, we provide:

  • Technical camera assistance
  • Guidance on alternative techniques (such as off-camera flash)
  • Composition tips
  • Image reviews and critiques
  • Post-processing and editing advice

I will arrive in São Paulo a day before the tour starts. Do you recommend hotels near the airport?

Yes. We recommend staying near São Paulo International Airport for convenience. We normally stay at the Pullman São Paulo Guarulhos Airport Hotel, as it is logistically the easiest option.

That said, this choice is entirely up to you. The Pullman is on the higher end price-wise, and you are absolutely welcome to book any hotel that fits your budget and preferences. As long as you are near the airport, logistics will work just fine.

Check our page with a list of recommended hotels near the airport.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. All clients are required to carry valid international travel insurance for the entire duration of the trip, including arrival and departure days.

A copy of the insurance policy must be submitted to us prior to the start of the trip. Failure to provide valid proof of insurance before departure will result in the client not being permitted to travel.

For more details on coverage requirements and recommendations, please see our dedicated travel insurance page.

Are we visiting areas considered high-risk for tropical diseases?

Generally speaking, no. The Pantanal is not considered a high-risk area for tropical diseases such as yellow fever or Zika, and malaria is not present in either the Pantanal or the Atlantic Rainforest.
In the Amazon, there is a very small possibility of malaria, but cases among travelers are extremely rare.

Are any vaccinations required?

No vaccinations are mandatory. However, the yellow fever vaccine is strongly recommended, especially for travelers visiting natural areas in Brazil. Many wildlife photographers already have this vaccine, as it is also recommended for several African destinations. Depending on the type received, the vaccine is valid for either 10 years or for life.

There is also a newer dengue vaccine, which some travelers may consider, particularly if they frequently visit tropical regions. We recommend consulting your travel clinic or physician for personalized advice.

What kind of biting insects should we expect?

Mostly common mosquitoes and, occasionally, horseflies. Using insect repellent and wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts is usually sufficient. During the warmer parts of the day, mosquitoes are rarely an issue.

Here’s an added FAQ topic that fits naturally with the others, keeps a calm tone, but is very clear about the importance:

Allergies and reactions to insect bites

Most travelers experience only mild reactions to insect bites. However, for guests with severe allergies, especially to insect bites or stings, this can be a serious concern. Medical facilities in remote areas may be limited, and immediate access to emergency care is not always possible.

If you have a known severe allergy, you must bring your own EpiPen (or equivalent emergency medication) and ensure it is easily accessible at all times. Please also inform us in advance of any serious allergies so we can be aware and assist if needed.

Is it safe to eat at the lodges and hotels?

Yes. All meals provided at our lodges and hotels are safe to eat, including salads. In many cases, produce is organically grown on-site and properly washed and prepared.

What are your cancellation policies?

In general, we do not offer refunds for cancellations, so we strongly recommend that all guests purchase trip cancellation insurance.
Refunds are only issued in the unlikely event that we are forced to cancel the trip for any reason.

Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for full details.

What payment options do you offer?

We accept the following payment methods:

  • International wire transfer
  • Credit card
  • Domestic bank transfer (available to U.S. citizens)

Credit card payments are processed through WeTravel, a secure and widely used platform for tour operators. A processing fee applies:

  • 2.9% for Visa and Mastercard
  • 3.9% for American Express

For wire transfers, there are no fees charged by us (please note your bank may apply its own fees).

Are tips included in the tour price?

For most of our trips, yes, tips are included, including tips for your guide. However, inclusions can vary, so please check the specific trip page or contact us directly to confirm what is included for your tour.

What is the merchant category for credit card payments?

Credit card payments made through our website are processed by WeTravel, which acts as a financial intermediary. As a result, transactions are categorized under “Business Services”, not “Travel.”

This may affect how your credit card issuer awards reward points, as some cards offer higher rewards for purchases coded as travel-related. Since the charge is not processed directly by the tour operator, it may not qualify for travel-specific benefits.

What clothing do you recommend for a Patagonia tour?

Please refer to our detailed blog post with clothing recommendations, where we cover layers, footwear, and seasonal considerations in detail.

I’m concerned about the amount of walking and hiking. How demanding is it?

Thanks to the use of 4×4 vehicles, most of the long walks and hikes that were common in the past are no longer necessary. We can usually drive very close to where the pumas are located, and any walking involved is typically just to adjust position or improve photographic angles.

Occasionally, pumas may be in areas that vehicles cannot access. In those cases, some walking is required, sometimes on moderately steep terrain. While this is not a trekking-focused trip, guests should be comfortable walking outdoors.

What is the terrain like?

The terrain consists mainly of low to knee-high vegetation, rocks, and open ground. Valley bottoms can sometimes be boggy, so waterproof boots are recommended.
During winter, there may be snow on the ground, sometimes ankle-high or a bit more.

Vegetation can be spiky and abrasive, so durable, good-quality pants are strongly recommended.

What photography gear do you recommend for a Pantanal tour?

Please refer to our blog post with detailed photography gear recommendations, where we cover camera bodies, lenses, accessories, and backup equipment.

What clothing do you recommend for a Pantanal tour?

Please check our blog post on clothing and packing for the Pantanal, which includes guidance on fabrics, colors, footwear, and seasonal considerations.

What kind of weather can I expect in the Pantanal?

We’ve prepared a detailed blog post describing the weather conditions throughout the year, including temperature ranges and seasonal variations.

What kind of biting insects should we expect?

Mostly common mosquitoes and, occasionally, horseflies. Using insect repellent and wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts is usually sufficient. During the warmer hours, mosquitoes are rarely a problem. The dry season in the Pantanal generally has relatively few mosquitoes.

What types of aircraft are used for domestic flights?

All scheduled domestic flights during our Pantanal itineraries are operated with modern jet aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320.

For our Complete Pantanal Tours, which include chartered flights, we use smaller aircraft such as the Cessna 182, Piper Seneca and Cessna Caravan. On the Pantanal Highlights Tour we use a Cessna Caravan.

What type of power outlets are used in Brazil?

Brazil uses three-pin outlets, but standard two-round-pin plugs also work. Voltage is usually 110V, though 220V is used in some locations.
We provide plug adapters for all guests if needed.