Bonito, located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, is known as the ecotourism capital. You can visit crystal-clear rivers, caves, and waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation
Serra da Bodoquena National Park
Bonito is the ideal gateway to explore this breathtaking park, home to some of the region’s most spectacular natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy crystal-clear rivers, emerald-green waters, waterfalls, lush riverside forests, impressive canyons, mysterious caves, sinkholes, tranquil pools, and beautiful lagoons.
The park extends across parts of the municipalities of Porto Murtinho, Jardim, Bonito, and Bodoquena.
Serra do Bodoquena
All the activities we mention below are part of organized tours that must be booked in advance in Bonito.
Cave Visits
Bonito is home to several impressive caves waiting to be explored. The Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave) is one of the most famous, renowned for its deep blue lake and beautiful stalactites. Another highlight is the Gruta de São Miguel, featuring remarkable formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Gruta do Lago Azul
Esta cueva es famosa por su increíble lago de aguas azules. Al descender por un sendero, llegarás a la entrada de la gruta y podrás admirar la belleza del lago subterráneo iluminado por la luz natural que se filtra a través de la abertura superior. Es un sitio impresionante para los amantes de la naturaleza y la geología.
El área tiene dos cuevas con formaciones de piedra caliza interesantes pero frágiles y está catalogado como área protegida desde 1978.
Grota do lago Azul
Gruta de São Miguel
Esta cueva ofrece una experiencia única al permitirte observar estalactitas y estalagmitas en un entorno subterráneo. A medida que avanzas por la cueva, te encontrarás con formaciones rocosas impresionantes y aprenderás sobre la historia geológica de la región.
Gruta de São Miguel
Snorkeling in the Rio da Prata
As we mentioned, Bonito is known as the ecotourism capital, and one of the most popular activities here is snorkeling in the Rio da Prata. You’ll drift along its crystal-clear waters while observing the rich aquatic life, including colorful fish and underwater plants. It’s a peaceful and relaxing experience surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
Rio da Prata
Snorkeling and Floating in the Sucuri River
One of the must-do activities in Bonito is floating down the Sucuri River. Its crystal-clear waters allow you to peacefully drift along on an inflatable tube while admiring the underwater life, including fish and aquatic plants.
There are also organized tours available for snorkeling in the river.
Sucuri river
River Resorts along the Formoso River
The resorts located along the Formoso River offer beautiful natural surroundings, as well as the chance to enjoy water activities in crystal-clear waters.
Some of these resorts feature beach areas where you can lay out your towel and relax in the sun. These river beaches are usually surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Many of the resorts also offer activities like floating or snorkeling. Additionally, some have zip lines and hanging bridges that cross over the river, adding a dose of excitement and adventure while you take in the stunning landscape of the river and its surroundings.
It’s important to note that the resorts along the Formoso River vary in terms of features, services, and prices, so we recommend doing a bit of research online beforehand to find the one that best suits your preferences and needs before your visit.
Waterfalls
There are several options to explore; here are some of the highlights:
The most famous and largest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul is Boca da Onça, with a height of 156 meters (512 feet). It’s located on private property, about 58 kilometers from Bonito. Besides hiking, visitors can also enjoy activities like a 90-meter (295 feet) rappelling descent facing the Salobra River canyon.
Estância Mimosa (photo) is a complex featuring ten waterfalls that showcase the beautiful vegetation of the Serra da Bodoquena region. The estate offers trails leading to the waterfalls, horseback riding, and birdwatching.
The Ceita Corê farm is also home to some of the region’s best waterfalls. Located 36 km from Bonito, it has seven waterfalls along the Chapena River, plus trails with boardwalks, hanging bridges, and zip lines.
Cachoeiras do Rio Pexe is considered one of Bonito’s most paradisiacal spots. It features several cascades, especially a 70-meter (230 feet) waterfall and a natural pool perfect for swimming.
Finally, Cachoeira da Carretilha, located within Parque das Cachoeiras and less than 15 km from the city, is known for its improvised zip line—which gave it its name—that leads directly to the river. The park also includes six other waterfalls, caves, and natural pools.
Waterfall at Estância Mimosa
Estas son solo algunas de las muchas atracciones que puedes disfrutar en Bonito, destino ideal para los amantes de la naturaleza y las aventuras al aire libre.