Bonito, Brazil: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Bonito’s rivers are so incredibly clear that visibility can reach up to 80 meters (262 feet) underwater? That’s clearer than many parts of the Caribbean Sea! This natural phenomenon occurs because the limestone-rich soil acts as a natural filter, making Bonito home to some of the most transparent freshwater rivers on Earth. Welcome to Brazil’s ecotourism paradise, where crystal-clear waters, vibrant fish, and stunning caves await your discovery.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Bonito is located in the southwestern part of Mato Grosso do Sul state, about 300 km (186 miles) from the state capital, Campo Grande. While somewhat remote, this isolation has helped preserve its natural beauty.

By Air

The most convenient way to reach Bonito is to fly into Campo Grande International Airport (CGR) and then take ground transportation to Bonito. Major Brazilian cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro offer regular flights to Campo Grande.

From Campo Grande to Bonito

Once in Campo Grande, you have several options to reach Bonito:

• Bus: Regular buses run from Campo Grande to Bonito (approximately 5 hours)
• Rental Car: A 4-hour drive through scenic countryside
• Shuttle Service: Several companies offer shared transfers

Important: The Voucher System

Bonito operates on a unique voucher system for all tours and activities. This system helps preserve the environment by limiting the number of daily visitors to each attraction. You must book tours in advance through authorized agencies in town. Spontaneous visits to attractions are not possible, so plan accordingly!

Best Time to Visit Bonito

Bonito’s climate and water visibility vary significantly throughout the year, making timing crucial for the best experience.

Recommended Months to Visit

The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer a good balance of decent visibility and fewer tourists. If you visit during the rainy season, schedule water activities early in your trip to allow flexibility in case of cancellations due to rain.

Getting Around Locally

Bonito’s town center is compact and walkable, but most attractions are located 20-60 km (12-37 miles) outside town. Here’s how to navigate:

Transportation Options

• Tour Transportation: Most tour packages include transportation from your hotel to the attraction
• Taxis: Available but can be expensive for longer distances
• Rental Car: Provides flexibility but remember that you’ll still need to book tours in advance
• Shared Shuttles: Transporte compartilhado is an economical option that can be arranged through tour agencies

Most visitors find that booking tours with included transportation is the most convenient option, especially since attractions are spread out and often located on private property with restricted access.

Where to Stay in Bonito

Bonito offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly pousadas to upscale eco-lodges. Most visitors prefer staying in town for easy access to restaurants and tour agencies.

Recommended Accommodations

Pro Tip: Stay in downtown Bonito for your first visit. This puts you within walking distance of tour agencies, restaurants, and shops, making it easier to plan your activities and adjust your itinerary if needed.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Bonito’s cuisine reflects its location in Mato Grosso do Sul, with strong influences from both Brazilian and Paraguayan cooking traditions. Fish dishes dominate local menus, particularly the pintado (a local catfish).

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Pintado à Urucum: Local catfish prepared with annatto seeds, a regional specialty
• Pacu Assado: Grilled pacu fish, often served with manioc and rice
• Chipa: Cheese bread with Paraguayan influence, perfect for breakfast
• Sopa Paraguaia: Despite the name, it’s not a soup but a corn bread
• Tereré: Cold yerba mate tea, essential for cooling down in hot weather

Recommended Restaurants

Many tour packages include meals at the attractions, which often feature fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. These on-site restaurants are typically excellent and convenient options during day trips.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Bonito’s main attractions revolve around its natural wonders. The region’s unique geological features have created a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts. Here are the must-do activities:

Snorkeling in Crystal Clear Rivers

Floating down Bonito’s transparent rivers is the region’s signature experience. Equipped with a wetsuit, snorkel, and mask, you’ll drift with the current while observing countless fish and underwater plants.

Exploring Caves and Grottos

Bonito’s limestone terrain has created spectacular caves and grottos, many featuring underground lakes with impossibly blue waters.

• Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave): Bonito’s postcard image, featuring a 90-meter deep lake with stunning blue hues created by sunlight filtering through
• Abismo Anhumas: An adventure combining rappelling 72 meters down into a cavern followed by snorkeling or diving in the underground lake
• Gruta São Miguel: A dry cave with beautiful speleothems illuminated by strategic lighting
• Lagoa Misteriosa: A flooded sinkhole perfect for snorkeling and diving

Waterfalls and Hiking

The region around Bonito features numerous waterfalls and hiking trails that showcase the diverse landscape of Mato Grosso do Sul.

• Boca da Onça: Features the tallest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul (156m/512ft) and a trail passing by ten waterfalls and five natural pools
• Estância Mimosa: A preserved natural area with seven waterfalls and natural swimming pools
• Rio do Peixe: Combines hiking with waterfalls and natural pools suitable for all ages

Wildlife Observation

Bonito’s location near the Pantanal wetlands makes it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Buraco das Araras: A massive sinkhole (500m/1640ft diameter, 127m/417ft deep) that serves as home to dozens of red-and-green macaw pairs
• Pantanal Day Trip: Visit the world’s largest tropical wetland to spot capybaras, caimans, and possibly jaguars
• Rio da Prata Reserve: Home to monkeys, toucans, and other wildlife that can be spotted during tours

Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Bonito is primarily known for its natural attractions, the town also offers cultural experiences that provide insight into local traditions and history.

Local Culture

• Casa do Artesão: Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs made by regional artisans
• Praça da Liberdade: The main square where locals gather in the evenings
• Cachaça Distilleries: Visit local producers of Brazil’s famous sugarcane spirit

Festivals

• Festival de Inverno de Bonito (Winter Festival): Held in July/August, featuring music, art, and environmental discussions
• Festa Junina: Traditional June festival with folk dancing, bonfires, and regional food
• Bonito’s Anniversary: Celebrated on October 2nd with parades and local events

For a deeper cultural experience, consider visiting a local fazenda (ranch) to learn about the region’s cattle-raising traditions and sample authentic country cooking.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Beyond the signature snorkeling experiences, Bonito offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.

Adventure Activities

Day-Use Resorts

Several properties in Bonito offer day-use facilities where you can relax between more adventurous activities.

• Balneário Municipal: The town’s public bathing area, accessible and affordable
• Nascente Azul: Features a large pool complex and additional activities
• Eco Park Porto da Ilha: Offers boat rides, river tubing, and natural pools

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Bonito is generally a safe destination with a strong focus on environmental conservation. Understanding local customs and regulations will enhance your experience.

Environmental Etiquette

• No Sunscreen in Rivers: To preserve water quality, sunscreen is prohibited during snorkeling tours
• Stay on Designated Paths: All tours require you to follow marked trails to minimize environmental impact
• No Touching: Avoid touching fish, corals, or cave formations
• No Littering: Pack out all trash, even biodegradable items

Safety Tips

• Follow Guide Instructions: Local guides are trained professionals focused on your safety
• Hydrate: The region can be hot, so drink plenty of water
• Sun Protection: Wear hats and UV-protective clothing (since sunscreen use is limited)
• Insect Repellent: Bring eco-friendly repellent, especially during summer months

Local Customs

• Tereré Culture: Locals often gather to share this cold yerba mate tea
• Relaxed Pace: Things move slower in Bonito – embrace the laid-back atmosphere
• Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (10% is standard for good service)

Practical Travel Tips

What to Pack

• Water Shoes: Essential for river activities and slippery surfaces
• Quick-Dry Clothing: You’ll be in and out of water frequently
• UV-Protective Shirts: Since sunscreen use is limited in natural waters
• Waterproof Phone Case/Bag: For capturing underwater moments
• GoPro or Waterproof Camera: To document your underwater adventures
• Light Jacket: Evenings can be cool, especially during winter (June-August)

Money Matters

• Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
• Cards: Major credit cards are accepted in town, but bring cash for small vendors
• ATMs: Available in Bonito but limited, so withdraw cash before tours
• Tour Costs: Budget 200-500 BRL ($40-100 USD) per activity

Planning Essentials

• Book in Advance: Due to the voucher system, spontaneous visits to attractions are not possible
• Tour Agencies: All bookings must be made through authorized agencies in town
• Time Buffer: Allow flexibility in your schedule for weather changes
• Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations but can be spotty
• Language: Basic Portuguese phrases will be helpful as English is not widely spoken

Experience the Magic of Bonito

Bonito truly lives up to its name, which means “beautiful” in Portuguese. This ecological paradise offers a unique combination of crystal-clear waters, stunning caves, diverse wildlife, and adventure activities that can’t be found anywhere else in Brazil—or perhaps the world.

While planning requires a bit more effort due to the voucher system, this careful management is precisely what preserves Bonito’s natural beauty and ensures your experience will be unforgettable. From floating down transparent rivers surrounded by colorful fish to rappelling into mysterious caves, Bonito offers natural wonders that will leave you in awe.

So pack your water shoes, prepare your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover one of Brazil’s best-kept secrets. The magical waters of Bonito are waiting for you!