We boarded the plane for Cuiaba without incident which is atypical of our travels. We had a layover in Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, and found a comfy spot to watch the France vs. Honduras game. We got to see the first half before we boarded another plane to Cuiaba.
Cuiaba is the capital of Mato Grosso and is located exactly in the middle of South America. The city was founded in 1719 when gold was discovered and people flocked to the area to become rich. Now the area raises cattle.
We were met at the airport by Carlos Grandez Perez, owner of Pantanal EcoExplorer Tour. Carlos’s company was recommended to us by 2 teachers from work, Tim and Kate, they raved about the company and their tour guide, Max. Carlos was very responsive to our email request for possible tour dates within the next 2 weeks. We did not plan this trip in advance and we were lucky he responded. (info@pantanalecoexplorer.com.br)
We set off in his car towards Pocone, a small town in Mato Grosso. We saw plenty of cattle and horse on the way. Reminded me of our trip to Tanzania where we saw goats and horses for the first half of the day.
We arrived at the entrance to Pousada Piuval and drove several kilometers.
The sun was setting but we managed to see a few thongs off to the side of the road; termite mounds, egrets, and an ibis. Right before the pousada we saw our first glimpse of the Hyacinth Macaws.
We settled into our room which was large, clean, and came with a few pets; worm, frog, and bettle.
We then went to supper and to meet our guide. The food was good, hot and simple, typical Brazilian; arrots, onions, lettuce, rice, beans, beet root, steamed greens and flan for dessert.
Max was to be our guide as he was for our friends so we were excited and new we were in good hands.
Next day begins at 5AM. Ready or not here we come!
No comments:
Post a Comment