ICTERUS
Ecotourism & Expeditions
We connect you to the heart of the Pantanal with unique experiences,
guided by experts passionate about nature and the region.
Our Journey through the Pantanal
Our Story
Inspired by the Pantanal
Founded in 2020 by biologists Rafael Souza and Gabriel Oliveira, Icterus Ecotourism & Expeditions was born out of a passion for nature and the unique biodiversity of the Pantanal. Rafael, a native of Corumbá, grew up immersed in the richness of his homeland, while Gabriel, from Rio de Janeiro, quickly fell in love with the local fauna and flora. With bilingual guides and itineraries that combine culture, nature, and environmental awareness, we aim to provide experiences that connect people to the essence of the Pantanal.
- +12 years of Experience in the Pantanal
- +500 satisfied customers
“I am dedicated to creating experiences that connect people to nature in a sustainable and transformative way.”
My fascination with wildlife began early, at the age of 3, inspired by "The Lion King." This love led me to study Biology, which I began at Univap and later transformed after an internship at EMBRAPA Pantanal in Corumbá. Enchanted by the biome, I transferred my studies to UFMS, where I graduated and met Rafael Souza, my partner in life and work.
As a Master in Conservation from IPÊ, I researched conflicts between primates and tourism. With over 10 years of experience as a nature photographer and birdwatcher, I co-founded Icterus Ecotourism with Rafael, merging passion and purpose to connect people with nature and the Pantanal.
“My goal is to inspire people to appreciate biodiversity through unforgettable experiences in the Pantanal.”
Since childhood, my passion for animals led me to dream of becoming a veterinarian and helping stray animals. Since the course was not available in my city, I enrolled in Biology at UFMS, where I discovered my true calling.
I worked in wildlife rescue and habitat restoration in Corumbá as a manager at a consulting firm, gaining experience in people management and logistics. Today, at Icterus Ecotourism, I combine research and environmental education to connect people with nature and promote conservation in the Pantanal.
Our Purpose
Connection and Conservation
At Icterus, we believe that ecotourism is a bridge between people, dreams, and nature. Our purpose is to conserve the biodiversity of the Pantanal while providing unforgettable experiences in birdwatching and wildlife observation, fostering a harmonious and sustainable relationship with the environment.
Our Values
Commitment to the Pantanal
- Passionate about the Pantanal, we place its preservation at the heart of everything we do.
- For us, any negative impact on wildlife is non-negotiable.
- We promote experiences that inspire biodiversity conservation.
- We value inclusion, diversity, and local culture.
- We actively contribute to scientific, environmental, and social research, strengthening sustainable ecotourism.
Our Commitment to ESG
and the UN Sustainable Development Goals
At Icterus Ecotourism, we combine our passion for nature with practices that generate a positive impact across all our activities. Since 2023, we have incorporated the ESG pillars—environmental, social, and governance—prioritizing key areas such as biodiversity (SDG 15), social inclusion (SDG 10), health and safety (SDG 3), and ethics (SDG 16). Our goal is to promote responsible tourism and transform the way people connect with the environment.
Our Actions and Partnerships
We work to conserve the biodiversity of the Pantanal and other biomes, protect endangered species, and adopt sustainable practices such as waste reduction and the use of biodegradable materials. We value local knowledge and communities, promote inclusion and training, and inspire environmental awareness in our visitors. With the support of BIOMAS ESG consulting and the ESG Advisory Council, we monitor and improve our initiatives to ensure ethical results aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Why Choose Icterus?
Choosing Icterus means experiencing transformative adventures that unite environmental preservation and social impact. Each expedition and project is designed to inspire connection, protect nature, and contribute to a more just and sustainable future. Be part of this mission by exploring, preserving, and finding inspiration with us.
COMMITMENT TO Values That Matter
We are a company guided by principles of inclusion, sustainability, and excellence. These seals represent our commitment to creating responsible and welcoming experiences, promoting a positive impact for our visitors and the environment.
Our participations Icterus in the Media
Icterus Ecoturismo has been featured in various media outlets, sharing our passion for birdwatching and wildlife tourism. Here you can find all our media appearances, including interviews for TV news, YouTube channels, podcasts, and more. Check out the videos and discover how we bring the Pantanal to the world!
JN firefighters in the Pantanal
Firefighters in the Pantanal rescue a Jabiru stork chick trapped in its nest, ensuring the safety of the region's emblematic bird.
Globo Rural 2023
The Pantanal faces major challenges with flooding after years of drought. Learn more in this report.
Planeta Aves - Harpy Eagle
During an expedition to the heart of the Pantanal, in Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul, we captured an impressive scene: a Harpy Eagle - also known as the royal hawk or uiraçu.
Birdcheck Brasil
We explored the Pantanal of Corumbá and Ladário in Mato Grosso do Sul with the Icterus Ecoturismo team and had many surprises
Pequenas Empresas &
Grandes Negócios
Globo interviews Icterus about the economic and ecotourism potential of Corumbá
Globo + Natureza 2023
Special episode of Globo + Natureza presents the natural richness of the Pantanal.
Bird breeding season 2018
Follow the breeding season of birds in the Pantanal and discover the challenges and curiosities of this natural cycle.
SEBRAE success case
Discover the journey of Icterus Ecoturismo, a company that transforms passion for wildlife into unique experiences in the Pantanal
Jabiru stork nest 2019
See how the majestic Jabiru stork builds its nest and protects its chicks in the heart of the Pantanal.
Canal Por Onde Andei
Many birds and various animals, such as giant otters, capybaras, Jabiru storks, caimans, and even the beautiful Pantanal deer, made an appearance during our tour
Artificial Jabiru stork nest 2021
Learn about the initiative to install artificial nests to preserve the Jabiru stork in the Pantanal.
MSTV1 - Entrepreneurial Couple
Learn the story of the couple who created Icterus, betting on the economic potential of tourism in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Corumbá's emblematic bird 2021
Discover which bird represents Corumbá and its importance for local biodiversity in this MSTV1 news report.
SEBRAE Podcast
Follow the conversation about entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism on the SEBRAE Podcast.
Elected Corumbá's emblematic bird
Learn more about the bird that was chosen as Corumbá's symbol and its environmental relevance.
Podcast Papo&Tereré
Casual chat about tourism, nature, and entrepreneurship in the Pantanal.
Podcast POD Ficar Sabendo
Sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation are the topics of this episode of POD Ficar Sabendo.
Documentary Mato Grosso do Sul – Serra do Amolar
Be enchanted by Serra do Amolar! A hidden treasure of the Pantanal, natural heritage of humanity and World Biosphere Reserve, revealed in this documentary about ecotourism.
YOU'RE ABOUT TO DISCOVER the best way to experience the Pantanal!
Transform your trip to the Pantanal into a unique experience. Contact us to plan tours, explore personalized itineraries, and discover everything this incredible destination has to offer.
- Corumbá - MS - BR
- [email protected]
- Saturday - 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Monday to Friday - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Mato Grosso do Sul, UTC -4