Getting around the Pantanal requires some planning, as this vast wetland region has few roads and is best explored by a combination of boats, 4x4 vehicles, horseback, and small planes. The main access points to the Pantanal are Cuiabá in the north and Campo Grande in the south, both of which have airports and serve as gateways to different parts of the region. From these cities, visitors typically travel by road to lodges, farms, or wildlife reserves.

In the northern Pantanal, the most popular route is the Transpantaneira Road, a scenic dirt road stretching 147 km (91 miles) from Poconé to Porto Jofre. The road is lined with wooden bridges, where travelers can spot caimans, capybaras, and birds along the way. However, the road becomes impassable during the rainy season (November to March), making boat travel essential. In Porto Jofre, boat safaris on the Cuiabá River offer the best chance to see wild jaguars, giant otters, and other aquatic wildlife.

In the southern Pantanal, many areas are accessed via private fazendas (ranches), where activities like horseback riding, canoeing, and 4x4 safaris are common. The Estrada Parque Pantanal, a scenic road connecting Corumbá to Miranda, offers another adventurous route with excellent wildlife-watching opportunities. During the wet season, some areas are only accessible by small aircraft or boats, making it essential to check conditions in advance. Regardless of the season, local guides are highly recommended, as they not only help with navigation but also enhance the experience with their deep knowledge of the Pantanal’s unique ecosystem.