Nestled in the heart of Brazilโs Mato Grosso do Sul, Bonito is a hidden gem that captivates the soul of every traveler who visits. With its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant ecosystems, this enchanting destination feels like a dream come to life.
Renowned for its crystal-clear rivers and abundant caves, Bonito offers unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences in Brazil’s hidden paradise.
As someone who has explored many corners of the world, I can confidently say that Bonito stands out for its unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an ideal getaway for anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature.
The things to do in Bonito Brazil are endless!
If you want more, we also put together a complete Bonito travel guide to this fantastic city! Now, back to it!
One of the first things that struck me about Bonito was the stunning clarity of its rivers. The water sparkles like liquid crystal, inviting visitors to dive in and discover the rich underwater life that thrives beneath the surface. From snorkeling with colorful fish to exploring enchanting caves, each experience in Bonito offers a new perspective on the beauty of the natural world.
Itโs a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the wonders around you.
Bonito is also home to various thrilling outdoor activities that cater to every adventurerโs taste. Whether youโre trekking through lush trails, rappelling down waterfalls, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, thereโs no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping.
Each excursion reveals the region’s breathtaking scenery, from cascading waterfalls to expansive wetlands teeming with wildlife. I found that every moment spent in Bonito deepened my appreciation for the environment and the need to preserve such pristine landscapes.
As I set out to explore this remarkable destination, I realized that Bonito is more than just a travel spot; itโs an experience that stays with you long after you leave. This guide aims to showcase all the incredible things you can do in Bonito, making it easier for you to plan your journey.
Whether youโre a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, Bonito promises to offer unforgettable memories and a sense of peace that lingers in the heart. Join me as we dive into the magic of Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul.
things to do in Bonito brazil
1. Buraco das Araras
The Buraco das Araras is absolutely stunning! It is one of the largest sinkholes in the world, featuring a massive crater that hosts over a hundred red macaws flying gracefully from one side to the other, enchanting everyone with the natural spectacle they create. While many tourists believe this attraction is located in Bonito, MS, the Buraco das Araras is actually situated on a farm called Alegria, in the town of Jardim, within Mato Grosso do Sul.
If youโre considering a visit to this remarkable site, thereโs no need to worry. Just contact one of our agents, and weโll take care of everything to ensure a smooth experience, minimizing any unexpected issues. Itโs important to remember that all tours in Bonito and the surrounding region have a daily visitation limit. Visitors can only participate with a scheduled date and time, so it is crucial to make reservations in advance. The tourism agents at Acqua are well-trained and will surely assist you with any questions you may have.
The Buraco das Araras is the largest sinkhole in South America and one of the biggest on the planet. It measures approximately 100 meters deep and 500 meters in circumference. The macaws build their nests in the crevices of the rock, showcasing the splendor of nature that rewards us when we care for it with love and patience. With Bonitoโs attractions nearby, visiting this natural wonder during the high season offers an unforgettable experience filled with awe and appreciation for the environment.
2. Abismo Anhumas
The excursion, often regarded as the highlight of adventures in Bonito, MS, offers a unique opportunity for rappelling and floating right in the heart of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Imagine exploring a vast cave through an opening in the ceiling, and then floating in a crystal-clear lake surrounded by submerged limestone cones. Itโs truly one of the best times you can have in this stunning region.
The Abismo Anhumas cave is located just 14.3 miles (23 km) from the city center of Bonito, presenting itself as a natural masterpiece within the Serra da Bodoquena. This iconic attraction offers a remarkable tourist experience.
Picture the thrill of descending into a chasm that feels like a “hole,” leading you to an expansive underground chamber 236 feet (72 meters) deep. It’s an experience thatโs hard to visualize until you find yourself there, witnessing a space as large as a football field within the cave, complete with a lake stretching 393 feet (120 meters) in length and 262 feet (80 meters) in depth.
And if you look up, youโll see the ceiling adorned with stunning limestone formations and a surreal Cone Forest.
The floating experience in Abismo Anhumas is truly one of the best things to do here. Unlike other spots in Bonito, this lake doesnโt host fish but instead surprises you with gigantic limestone cones, some reaching nearly 59 feet (18 meters) high. The mechanical rappelling down 236 feet (72 meters) provides a breathtaking view of the crystal-clear waters and magnificent geological formations.
The visibility in the lake is exceptional, reaching up to 197 feet (60 meters). After the descent, everyone gathers on the floating deck to receive final instructions from the guide, don their neoprene suits, and board the inflatable boat for a one-of-a-kind rappelling and boating adventure.
The cave maintains a chilly temperature of around 63ยฐF (17ยฐC), regardless of the outside weather. While the initial cold may be a surprise, floating among the submerged cones, formed over millennia, is an unparalleled experience. All necessary gear, including neoprene suits, masks, snorkels, fins, and balancing vests, is provided.
things to do in Bonito brazil
3. Lago Azul
The Gruta do Lago Azul, or Blue Lake Cave, is located in the rural area of Bonito, approximately 13.7 miles (22 km) from the city. It has been recognized as a protected area by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN) since 1978.
The cave gets its name from the stunning mirror of crystal-clear waters found inside, fed by a deep aquifer that creates a mesmerizing blue lake.
Gruta do Lago Azul is one of the most significant attractions in Bonito, not only because many consider it the cityโs postcard but also due to the importance and preservation state of its geological formations.
The visit is purely contemplative, as swimming in the lake is not allowed. Beneath the shimmering blue waters, the cave is home to rare finds like the Saber-Toothed Tiger and the Giant Sloth.
Your adventure begins with a 1,000-foot (approximately 300 meters) walk from the reception area to the cave entrance. Even though itโs a short distance, you can already sense the beauty of this attraction.
Access to the cave is quite easy, making it suitable for older travelers, as long as they donโt have serious knee issues due to the staircase or significantly reduced mobility. The entire visit is guided and takes place in groups of up to 15 people, with a few stops along the way.
Once inside the cave, visitors descend approximately 656 feet (200 meters) down a staircase carved into the earth. This staircase has handrails to enhance the sense of safety for everyone.
Upon reaching the first platform, youโll be greeted by the famous lake, captivating with its intensely blue hue and stunning speleothemsโrock formations that have been forming on the floor and ceiling of the cave for thousands of years.
The total duration of the tour is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, including both entry and exit.
Please keep in mind the restrictions: This attraction is not recommended for individuals with a history of claustrophobia, significant mobility restrictions, or heart conditions.
- Pregnant individuals are prohibited
- Children must be at least 6 years old (minimum age) and a minimum of 4.3 feet (1.30 m) tall
- Maximum limit of 210 visitors per day.
4. Rio Sucuri
Floating in the Sucuri River is one of the best things you simply can’t miss during your visit to Bonito, MS.
Its waters are incredibly crystal-clear, providing excellent visibility underwater, making it one of the most pristine water spots in the world.
A fun fact about the Sucuri River is how it got its name. In 1975, a visitor flew over the river and noted that it resembled a giant anaconda. Thanks to its transparency, the underwater vegetation looked much like the snake’s patterns, leading the aviator to name it โSucuri River.โ
Did you know you can float on the Sucuri River? Youโll drift along the surface, almost like youโre floating face down. No swimming skills are required, as life jackets help with buoyancy. The gentle current of the river guides visitors along the route, always accompanied by a support boat.
The floating experience spans approximately 1,800 feet (about 550 meters), with participants accompanied by a guide and a support boat throughout the adventure.
Usually, the travel company you book with provides all the necessary equipment for the activity, and these costs are included in the tour price. Children as young as 4 can float in the Sucuri River, as long as theyโre accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
Whenโs the best time to enjoy the Sucuri River? The small town of Bonito experiences a tropical climate, featuring two distinct seasons: a dry one in winter and a wet one in summer. River temperatures remain constant throughout the year, ranging between 69ยฐF and 73ยฐF (21ยฐC to 23ยฐC).
For the Sucuri River trip specifically, winter offers even clearer waters, making the experience even better. On cooler days, you can wear neoprene suits for floating; they are thermally insulated and keep your body warm.
things to do in Bonito brazil
5. Lagoa Misteriosa
One of the main activities at Lagoa Misteriosa is floating, making it Brazil’s top freshwater diving spot and the only open sinkhole available for visitation in the Bonito region of MS, Mato Grosso do Sul.
Not long ago, Lagoa Misteriosa was part of private property, which meant it was closed to the public. However, after being purchased by the Rio da Prata Group, which also manages Recanto Ecolรณgico Rio da Prata and Estรขncia Mimosa, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.
To open Lagoa Misteriosa for visitors without harming the environment, the submerged cave was closed for six years, from 2005 to 2011. Thankfully, the tours are now available and are carefully managed by guides who prioritize the safety of the lagoon and its guests.
The name Lagoa Misteriosa relates directly to the depth of this submerged cave, which remains a mystery even to ecological researchers and experienced divers. The deepest point recorded to date was noted in 1988 by Gilberto Menezes, reaching an astonishing 722 feet (220 meters)โdeeper than a 70-story building underwater! He needed eight hours of diving to reach that depth!
Considered one of the best ecotourism destinations in the region, Lagoa Misteriosa captivates every visitor with its stunning beauty. The waterโs transparency is so remarkable that while floating on the surface, you can actually see its two deep blue abysses located just 26 feet (8 meters) below.
In addition to having some of the most crystalline waters, Lagoa Misteriosa impresses with its towering vertical walls, which frame the hundreds of small fish that inhabit this enchanting sinkhole.
The floating experience lasts about 2 hours and is suitable for both adults and children aged 6 and up. Plus, if you’re looking for more adventure, you can try the Baptism Dive (with a tank), designed for those wanting to experience scuba diving for the first time.
6. Parque das Cachoeiras
Located 10.8 miles (17.4 km) from the city, Parque das Cachoeiras is one of Bonitoโs stunning waterfall tours, set along the banks of the Mimoso River in Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul.
At Parque das Cachoeiras, you have two options for your visit: enjoy the swimming pool area or dive into the full adventure through the trails and waterfalls.
It’s worth noting that while the swimming pool area is a bit smaller compared to other spots in Bonito, the waterfall trail is surprisingly flat, making the walk quite easy.
Along the 1.05-mile (1700-meter) trail and wooden walkways, you’ll find at least seven stops to dive into the crystal-clear rivers and discover the park’s rich wildlife and vegetation. This four-hour tour is the best thing for those wanting to experience one of Bonito’s waterfalls up close.
Parque das Cachoeiras features seven amazing attractions, each perfect for that postcard-worthy photo. Hereโs a list of what you can expect:
- Mulungu Waterfall
- Gruta Waterfall
- Sol Waterfall
- Amor Waterfall
- Sinhozinho Waterfall
- Figueira Waterfall
- Salto Waterfall.
In addition to the waterfalls, your experience is complete with a refreshing dip in the cascades of cool water and revitalizing contact with the nature of Serra da Bodoquena, offering a true sense of well-being. This tour is highly recommended for families with children and for those looking for less physically demanding activities.
These waterfalls of the Mimoso River are formed from a type of porous limestone created by the interaction between calcium carbonate-rich water and CO2 released into the atmosphere.
One fascinating fact about these rocks is how their shapes and sizes constantly change, influenced by the variation in water levels throughout the year.
Among all the waterfall tours in Bonito, Parque das Cachoeiras offers the most accessible trail. Wooden walkways cover over 80% of the path.
Exploring these trails is not tiring, thanks to strategic stops for swims in the waterfalls and natural pools, which are spaced roughly every 820 feet (250 meters) along the walk.
The reception area is fully equipped to welcome visitors of all ages, including wheelchair access.
The guides for this tour are well-trained in natural attractions and are prepared to assist and inform visitors throughout the entire experience, ensuring safety and providing insightful information about the Bonito waterfalls and the surrounding environment.
things to do in Bonito brazil
7. Eco Park Porto da Ilha
Eco Park Porto da Ilha is a stunning conservation area offering a variety of family-friendly tourist activities.
Previously known as Ilha do Padre, Eco Park Porto da Ilha spans 7.4 acres (3 hectares) and provides unforgettable experiences for everyone, packed with excitement and safety.
In addition, the park boasts multiple outdoor water activities along the Formoso River. This area is filled with fish, birds, mammals, and beautiful waterfalls with calm, crystal-clear rivers. All activities are 100% eco-friendly, offering a full connection to nature.
The parkโs organization and commitment to the environment have earned it the title of one of the best places to visit in Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, winning the Travellerโs Choice award from TripAdvisor five times.
Eco Park Porto da Ilha is located about 8 miles (13 km) from the center of Bonito. To get there, take the exit from Bonito and turn left on Av. Brasil. From there, simply follow the signs to the parkโs reception area.
Most visitors choose the shared transport option in Bonito, which is the best way to reach local attractions, as it provides pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel or guesthouse.
Eco Park Porto da Ilha offers exciting activities for the entire family, categorized into three types: “relax” for those who love calm waters, “galera” for groups of friends or family, and “adventure” for thrill-seekers looking for adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Here are some of the main things to do in Bonito Brazil:
Balneรกrio
Established in 1973, the Balneรกrio at Eco Park Porto da Ilha is the oldest private swimming area in Bonito. Here, you can enjoy a full day of relaxation with your family while swimming in the crystalline rivers of the Formoso.
Boat Trip
On the Boat Trip, visitors hop aboard inflatable rafts and glide through gentle rapids and waterfalls. During the ride, youโll have the chance to admire the diverse fauna and flora along the banks of the Formoso River. Itโs an excellent group activity for a day of fun in nature.
Duck โ Inflatable Kayak
In the Duck tour, you’ll embark on an inflatable kayak for an adventure packed with excitement. The trip starts with a calm, scenic paddle through still waters, before descending through three waterfalls and finishing with a refreshing swim.
Boia Cross
The Boia Cross experience involves floating on individual inner tubes down a 328-foot (100-meter) stretch of the Formoso River, navigating rapids and calm waters alike. With two guides per group, this activity offers thrilling moments as you ride the rapids,
making it a super fun experience!
Stand Up Paddle
Glide across the calm waters of the Formoso River on a stand-up paddleboard, where you can soak in the natural surroundings. The adventure ends near one of the local waterfalls, offering a scenic and serene conclusion.
Electric Boat
The electric boat is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, nature-filled experience. Departing from Porto da Ilha, the boat glides across calm waters toward the famous Hormรญnio Bridge, where youโll pause for photos and a moment of reflection.
Bike Boat
This unique activity allows you to pedal across the Formoso River on a water bicycle. The Bike Boat is lightweight and mounted on inflatable pontoons. Not only is this a fun and relaxing way to explore the river, but itโs also a fantastic physical workout with its propulsive system, allowing you to speed up or reverse.
Romantic Scenes for Couples
For couples, the park offers not only great leisure activities to enjoy together but also romantic landscapes that make it a popular destination for lovebirds.
Restaurant
Eco Park Porto da Ilha also has a cozy restaurant serving delicious, home-style dishes. With a wide range of options, from appetizers and snacks to ร la carte dishes and buffet meals for groups, thereโs something for every palate.
Things to do in Bonito Brazil
8. Recanto Ecologico Rio da Prata
This is one of the most incredible rivers in the region, known for its high concentration of limestone. Thanks to this, its waters are extremely crystal clear and perfect for both floating and other ecotourism activities.
A roughly 50-minute (3 km) walk along an interpretive trail will take you to the starting point of the floating experience.
Along the way, youโll have the chance to admire the local vegetation and the diversity of wild animals living among the trees, including birds, tapirs, agoutis, and armadillos.
Even before starting the main activity, youโll have already experienced unforgettable moments in nature. But now itโs time to begin the adventure.
The floating tour on the Rio da Prata actually starts in another river, the Rio Olho Dโรกgua, with easy access provided by a wooden deck.
The journey from Rio Olho Dโรกgua to Rio da Prata is calm, offering a deep sense of relaxation as you float through the crystal clear waters.
During this time, youโll easily spot various fish species, like the impressive pintados and dourados, some of which are quite large, as well as stunning turtles.
In certain sections, the river becomes even clearer and shallower, making it an ideal spot for floating. Because of the shallow waters, the support boat can only accompany you for the final part of the tour. You can choose to finish the journey either by boat or by continuing to float.
I suggest setting aside at least half a day, or a minimum of 4 hours, to fully enjoy this natural wonder. From the trail to the end of the floating experience, the total travel time is around 4 hours.
The time spent walking the trail can vary greatly depending on the groupโs pace, generally taking between 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Youโll then spend approximately 2 hours floating on the Rio da Prata, covering a total distance of 1.36 miles (2.2 km). But donโt worryโdespite the distance, no great effort is required, as the riverโs current is incredibly calm, making it a good time for everyone.
The property also offers other canโt-miss activities, such as horseback riding, scuba diving, and birdwatching.
But the fun doesnโt stop there. At this ranch by the Rio da Prata, you can take full advantage of its facilities and the preserved nature that surrounds it. A visit here guarantees youโll head home with a suitcase full of new, unforgettable experiences.
The area is home to centuries-old trees, as well as bromeliads and orchids. Itโs the perfect habitat for wild animals, and itโs no wonder that mammals and various bird species have made this place their home, often appearing to brighten up your tour.
After your floating adventure, thereโs no better way to recharge than with a delicious lunch. Back at the farmโs main area, youโll be greeted by a wide variety of typical South Mato Grosso dishes and irresistible homemade sweets.
The floating tour on the Rio da Prata takes place in Jardim, a neighboring town 31 miles (50 km) from Bonito.
Specifically, itโs located at the Recanto Ecolรณgico Rio da Prata, a farm surrounded by fully preserved vegetation. The propertyโs natural beauty is so valuable that 1.37 miles (2.207 meters) of the area is protected by the RPPN (Private Natural Heritage Reserve).
Important Information:
- Duration: Full day
- Distance: 28 miles (45 km)
- Minimum Age: 6 years
- Facilities: Bar, restaurant, parking, reception, souvenir shop, hammock area
- No support boat is included
- Transport not included.
Things to do in Bonito Brazil: Wrap Up
In conclusion, Bonito, MS, is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its crystal-clear rivers, such as the Rio Sucuri, and mesmerizing caves like the Blue Lake Cave (Gruta do Lago Azul), Bonito offers a unique opportunity to connect with Brazilโs pristine natural beauty.
Whether you’re snorkeling through vibrant aquatic ecosystems, exploring stunning waterfalls like Boca da Onรงa, or visiting the impressive Abyss Anhumas, thereโs no shortage of breathtaking sights.
If you’re looking for an escape into nature, Bonito is undoubtedly the perfect place to discover. Come visit and see for yourself why this hidden gem is one of the most remarkable spots in Brazil!
