THE REFUGE

The Refúgio da Ilha Ecolodge.

A unique refuge in the Southern Pantanal

Situated on an island formed by two river branches, Refúgio da Ilha lodge rests on the edge of the crystal-clear waters of the Salobra River, within the Salobra River Delta— nestled between the north of Serra da Bodoquena and the Miranda Pantanal.

It is the most accessible lodge in the Pantanal, just 11 km from its entrance on the BR- 262, accessible via an excellent unpaved cobblestone road. It is also the closest to Bonito and halfway to the entire Pantanal.

Ecology and sustainability.
Tourism with respect
and responsibility.

At Refúgio da Ilha, we actively contribute to local research and conservation initiatives,
often in collaboration with regional universities. We facilitate biological studies and
conservation work through partnerships with various institutions. Our commitment to
responsible tourism safeguards the beauty of the Pantanal, preserving it for future
generations.

We actively contribute to vital conservation projects, like the PAPAGAIO
VERDADEIRO and the renowned ARARA AZUL project. We host active nest boxes
continuously monitored by the project. Notably, our property was the primary filming
location for ‘RAISING SANCHO: THE ORPHAN GIANT OTTER,’ a BBC/Animal
Planet documentary, entirely shot in the vicinity of our lodge and extensively broadcast
on ANIMAL PLANET. Furthermore, we’ve served as a captivating backdrop for
international productions like ‘VU DU CIEL’ by Arthur Bertrand and BBC’s ‘FRESH
WATER – PLANET EARTH’ and ‘WILD BRAZIL (2014),’ Refúgio da Ilha served as
the prime location for filming otters in that production.

Our lodge’s private reserve serves as a vital ecological sanctuary dedicated to the
permanent preservation of the SALOBRA PANTANAL. The low environmental impact
of our operations, combined with ongoing conservation efforts in the area, embodies the
SUSTAINABILITY of our ecotourism project. Our guests actively contribute to this
cause by choosing to stay with us.

Welcome to our lodge, where the authentic warmth and comfort of rural Brazil meet style.

We provide eight cozy apartments, meticulously equipped with private bathrooms featuring invigorating hot showers, split air conditioning, ceiling fans, king-size beds, balconies, screened windows, and high-quality bed and bath products. Our team ensures daily cleaning, organization, and replenishment, for an impeccable experience throughout your stay.

Complementing the charm of our rooms, our indoor and outdoor spaces create a true refuge of tranquility.

Enjoy our cozy living room, relax in the charming pergolas surrounding the lodge, or unwind in the video room. Explore our small library or visit our shop. Three decks are available where you can appreciate the stunning Pantanal landscape, including one along the banks of the Salobra River—an ideal spot to admire the river and take a refreshing swim.

Indulge your palate with our two exclusive dining options, each featuring its inviting bar.

Our indoor restaurant is ideal for savoring refined dinners and delightful breakfasts accompanied by the symphony of birds. Meanwhile, the outdoor restaurant, on the banks of the Salobra River, provides a unique lunch experience, seamlessly blending with nature.

Pantanal Gastronomy

Our culinary repertoire effortlessly marries sophistication with the abundant gastronomic heritage of rural farms. Our diverse menu, designed to please all tastes, offers a range of dishes from world cuisine with a rich elaboration of regional food. We serve the finest Pantanal meat, complemented by delightful and flavorful vegetarian alternatives. Fresh greens and vegetables from an authentic organic garden in the nearby city of Miranda or our garden, all free from pesticides. Diversity, sophistication, quality, and meticulous attention to food preparation encapsulate our commitment to pleasing our guests.

Regional Culinary Delights, Catering to Every Palate

Our package includes three meals: a colonial and regional breakfast featuring fresh fruits, cereals, natural juices, bread, biscuits, homemade cakes and jams, cheese, and natural yogurt. Lunch is a buffet with dessert, offering a variety of vegetables, salads, and regional dishes. Dinner consists of a diverse buffet and dessert, leaning towards lighter and international cuisine. Additionally, enjoy a farm-style snack in the mid- afternoon (serving cakes and homemade cookies). Fresh fruits and treats are always available for guests at any time.

Where we are

The Refúgio da Ilha ecolodge is in the Salobra River Delta Pantanal (highlighted in blue on the map), known as ‘Border Pantanal,’ on the south of the Southern Pantanal. The Salobra Delta acts as a connecting link between the Miranda Pantanal, where it
discharges its waters, and the Serra da Bodoquena, from where it receives the significant water volume that enables the flooding of the Salobra Delta plain during the rainy season.