river / fishing and boat trips · Corumbá, MS
Passo do Lontra
A stretch of the Miranda River lined with Pantanal pousadas (guesthouses), famous for sport fishing and sunset boat trips. It is one of the classic gateways to the Estrada Parque.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Passo do Lontra
Passo do Lontra is a small Pantanal community at the point where the Estrada Parque Pantanal crosses the Miranda River, in the municipality of Corumbá (MS). It is on the stretch of road closest to the BR-262, which makes it one of the most popular gateways to the Southern Pantanal.
The place began as a settlement of fishermen and bait collectors, who live in stilt houses on the riverbank. Its old name was Passo da Lontra. From the 1990s on, the area began to receive tourists, and today there are several Pantanal lodges on the banks of the Miranda, also on stilts. Nearby is the UFMS (Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul) Pantanal Research Base.
The river is the center of everything. Visitors head out by boat to fish, watch birds and caimans and see the sunset over the water. There is also night wildlife spotting, horseback rides and guided walks on the surrounding ranches. From the bridge over the river you can watch the boats come and go and see many caimans.
At high water, the river rises close to the houses and lodges, which keep operating on their stilts. It is a relaxed outing, good for families, anglers and anyone who enjoys watching wildlife.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One afternoon is enough for a boat trip, but most people spend two or three nights to fish, go night wildlife spotting and take trips along the Estrada Parque.
Best time
In the dry season, in the second half of the year, when wildlife gathers near the river and the road is firmer; the late-afternoon boat trip is the most beautiful moment of the day.
How to get there
It is on the banks of the Miranda River, on the stretch of the Estrada Parque Pantanal (MS-184) closest to the BR-262. Leaving the BR-262 at Buraco das Piranhas, between Miranda and Corumbá, follow the dirt road to the bridge over the river.
Tip
If you plan to fish, check the fishing rules and closed seasons in Mato Grosso do Sul beforehand. Bring insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen for the boat trips.
A look at the place
Passo do Lontra in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Passo do Lontra
Where is Passo do Lontra?
In the municipality of Corumbá (MS), where the Estrada Parque Pantanal crosses the Miranda River, on the stretch of road closest to the BR-262.
What is there to do in Passo do Lontra?
Boat trips on the Miranda River, sport fishing, watching birds and caimans, night wildlife spotting, and guided horseback rides and walks.
Can you fish in Passo do Lontra?
Yes, sport fishing is one of the most popular activities. Check the rules and closed seasons in Mato Grosso do Sul beforehand.
What is the best time to go to Passo do Lontra?
The dry season, in the second half of the year, is best for seeing wildlife. At high water the river rises a lot and the whole landscape floods.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Passo do Lontra?
Access is by dirt road. In the dry season, a regular car can usually make it; in the rainy season, choose a high-clearance vehicle and check road conditions before you go.