HISTORY
Our love story with the
Pantanal dates back many
years ago.
Under the golden sunlight that bathes the Pantanal, Refúgio da Ilha ecolodge continues to write its history.
Once upon a time, in a remote corner of Brazil, where the waters from the Bodoquena
plateau gracefully converge, flowing with splendor and life toward the Miranda River,
the story of the Refúgio da Ilha ecolodge began to unfold. Established in 1997 by a
family of adventurous spirits, emigrants from Rio Grande do Sul, seeking new
opportunities and a fresh start in the mesmerizing state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Our purpose is to share this paradise with those who have the sensitivity to appreciate it
In the beginning, dreams revolved around an agricultural venture, aiming for the
cultivation of irrigated rice. The patriarch and matriarch, Jairo de Moura and Ivone
Copetti, had always been farmers or ‘land workers.’ However, fate had different plans,
and this endeavor didn’t pan out. Simultaneously, legislative changes altered agricultural
projects on the edges of the Pantanal. Their noble efforts and intentions were frustrated.
Leaving a void in the hearts of this resilient couple.
Yet destiny, wise in its ways, had a new purpose and path for the family. They had to
embrace a new vision and approach to land use, understanding the magic of the place
where they had settled. Hence, they uncovered the fascinating charms of the Salobra
Delta Pantanal, falling deeply in love with its beauty and riches. Finally, they decided to
share this paradise with all who possessed the sensitivity to appreciate it.
Trained and dedicated team
Our team has evolved into temporary guardians of the astonishing yet fragile ecosystem
that is the Salobra Delta Pantanal. Recognizing the looming threats – deforestation, the
expansion of soybean fields, monocultures like eucalyptus, drainage, and human-
induced fires – we wholeheartedly embraced the mission to protect and preserve this
region. This marked the beginning of the Refúgio da Ilha Ecolodge project. Beyond
bridging the connection between ecotourism guests and the wonders of the Salobra
Pantanal, we are committed to conserving this jewel of nature.
On this successful journey, our gratitude extends to our key supporters: our cherished guests. Their presence and direct support are crucial to our conservation story. Beyond enjoying the wonders of the Pantanal, their visits actively contribute to its permanent protection. They are helping us safeguard this ecological sanctuary for generations to come.
On this successful journey, our gratitude extends to our key supporters: our cherished guests. Their presence and direct support are crucial to our conservation story. Beyond enjoying the wonders of the Pantanal, their visits actively contribute to its permanent protection. They are helping us safeguard this ecological sanctuary for generations to come.
A story of human connection with the environment around us
Therefore, under the golden sunlight that bathes the Pantanal, the Refúgio da Ilha
ecolodge continues to write its history. It is a story of a family’s love and respect for
nature. A story of human connection with the environment around us. As we renew our
commitment every day, to stand as the guardians of this enchanting refuge, eagerly
anticipating the opportunity to share the beauty and tranquility of such a unique place
with all who seek it.
You are warmly invited! Welcome! Enjoy it! Create unforgettable memories amidst the exuberance of the Salobra Delta Pantanal!
The Refúgio da Ilha offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Pantanal.
