Written by Lexi Tebet
If you’ve traveled with Admiral Travel over the years, chances are you’ve seen Carter Hilton grow up alongside the company. From boarding his first international flight before the age of one to exploring more than 60 countries since, Carter has been immersed in the world of travel since day one. Now, fresh from earning his degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida State University, he is officially joining the Admiral Travel team as an Adventure Travel Advisor.
Carter’s very first hosted journey will be a special one: Admiral Travel’s 2026 departure into Brazil’s Pantanal. Spanning 68,000 square miles, the Pantanal is the world’s largest freshwater wetland — a place teeming with wildlife and astonishing natural beauty.
When asked why this region should be at the top of every traveler’s list, Carter shared his top five reasons:
1. An Exclusive Window Into the Wild
The Pantanal is one of the last places on Earth where you can view natural animal behavior in an untouched environment. At 68,000 square miles, the Pantanal is the largest freshwater wetland and one of the most productive habitats on the planet.
2. Where Nature’s Diversity Comes to Life
The Pantanal is home to around 5,000 species of plants and animals, including the world’s largest parrot, the Hyacinth Macaw, and the star of the show, the jaguar. But around every corner awaits some of the most interesting and unique walks of life our planet has to offer. From giant river otters to crab-eating foxes to the hundreds of species of birds and fish, the natural rhythms of life melt together to create some of the most beautiful scenes on Earth.
3. The Jaguar
If you have been on safari in Africa, you have seen the beauty and felt the grace of a big cat roaming through the wilderness or climbing up a tree. A jaguar encounter in the Pantanal is nothing short of magical. Witnessing the stealth and power of a jaguar is humbling and intense, yet so elegant and peaceful. Time seems to stand still as you witness nature in its purest form — a moment that will stay with you forever.
4. Disconnect from the Distractions
The Pantanal is the perfect destination to empty your mind of the chaotic outside world and immerse yourself in the pure and natural sights, sounds, and smells. It will be a wild adventure, but there will be no shortage of comfort and luxury hospitality.
5. A Photographer’s Paradise
From sunrise skies painted in pink and gold to close-up encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat, the Pantanal is a dream for photographers and storytellers alike. Whether you’re behind a professional lens or simply capturing moments on your phone, every frame feels like a masterpiece.
If this extraordinary destination isn’t on your list yet, now is the time to add it! Click the link below to learn more:
