ABOUT US
The Pantanal, a biome considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is the largest floodplain on planet Earth. Covering approximately 140,000 km2 in Brazil, this area is home to dozens of species.
Jorge Schweizer’s passion for the Pantanal began in childhood and led him, alongside his wife Evelyn, to acquire lands in the Nhecolândia region starting in 1979. Their goal was to protect the area’s diverse habitats, eventually forming what is now Fazenda Barranco Alto. Jorge co-founded Sodepan, conducted eight years of research on giant otters—published in his 1992 book Ariranhas no Pantanal—and passed his conservation values on to his four children.
Following this legacy, the Schweizer family continues to manage the land with a strong focus on ecological preservation and sustainable development. In 2003, Marina and her husband Lucas opened the lodge, reinforcing scientific partnerships and strengthening community ties. In 2007, the family expanded conservation efforts with the purchase of Santa Thomazia, across the Rio Negro.
From 2017 to 2019, Corinne and her husband Ben managed the lodge, continuing the family's environmental commitment. Today, Camilla oversees lodge operations while Noel manages the animal husbandry department, ensuring that all four siblings remain actively involved in the stewardship and sustainable future of the Pantanal.
THE FARM
Located on the untouched banks of the Rio Negro, Fazenda Barranco Alto follows the rhythm of the Pantanal, guided by the seasonal flood pulse.
From December to March, the flooded season brings lush vegetation and abundant wildlife hidden in the forest. From April to July, during the early dry season, animals build nests, prepare dens, and search for mates, while pink trumpet trees paint the landscape.
From August to November, the peak dry season reveals newborns, open fields full of wildlife, and unique survival behaviors.
Here, jaguars, pumas, capybaras, pampas deer, jabirus, anteaters, and countless species coexist in a balanced ecosystem. Nature reveals itself through observation, knowledge, and the stories shared each day.
Our mission is to connect guests to this energy through immersive experiences — awakening their senses to sounds, scents, and the natural beauty of the Pantanal.
Alongside its role as an ecolodge, research base, and conservation hub, Barranco Alto maintains a tradition of low-impact extensive cattle ranching, preserving the culture of the Pantanal cowboys.
Conservation
Local community empowerment and environmental education
Research
Sustainability
Our mission at Fazenda Barranco Alto is to continue to conserve the wilderness areas around us and to protect the wild fauna and flora that call them home.
We are committed to having as light a footprint as possible, through small scale respectful tourism and low impact extensive cattle farming.
Long-term research, local community support, and education promote a better co-existence with nature and deeper understanding of the environment.
OUR TEAM
At Fazenda Barranco Alto, conservation is only possible because of the people behind it. Alongside the Schweizer family, a dedicated team works every day to keep the farm running smoothly and to protect the Pantanal’s wild landscapes.
Our team includes experienced guides, drivers, cooks, housekeepers, cowboys and their foreman, as well as a tractor operator. Each person contributes essential knowledge and skills, and together they form the heart of Barranco Alto.
In the Pantanal, no one works alone — collaboration is what allows this place to thrive. Our team’s commitment, respect for nature, and shared purpose are what make Barranco Alto truly special.
Jordan Parker
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Max Johnson
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Drew Carlyle
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Morgan James
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Morgan James
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Morgan James
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Morgan James
Position / Role