*heads up: this post contains affiliate links. if you book through them, i may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. it helps support this blog and i truly appreciate it!
Located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Bonito won my heart from the first sight of its incredibly transparent rivers and dazzling blue caves.
International travelers often overlook this hidden gem, heading to the more famous destinations like Rio or the Amazon. But I can assure you that if you’re looking for unspoiled natural beauty and unique experiences, Bonito in Brazil should be on your bucket list!
Bonito means “beautiful” in Portuguese, and the name couldn’t be more fitting. This ecotourism paradise is renowned for its incredibly transparent rivers, stunning blue caves, and rich biodiversity that makes it one of Brazil’s most precious natural treasures. What makes Bonito truly special is the limestone-filtered water that creates visibility of up to 50 meters in some rivers — it’s like swimming in a natural aquarium!
Much of Bonito’s appeal centers around its pristine rivers, fascinating cave systems, and breathtaking waterfalls. From the historic town center to the surrounding natural wonders, there’s always something amazing to discover in Bonito.
In this article, I’ve selected a list of 27 things to do in Bonito that showcase the best this natural paradise has to offer. Join me as we dive into Bonito’s hidden gems and iconic attractions that make it one of Brazil’s most extraordinary destinations!
Table of Contents
How to Get to Bonito
Getting to Bonito requires a bit of planning, but trust me, it’s worth the journey!
Most visitors fly into Campo Grande (the capital of Mato Grosso do Sul), which is about 300 km from Bonito. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or shuttle for the 4-5 hour journey. Another option is flying from São Paulo directly to Bonito’s airport.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: I recommend renting a car if you’re comfortable driving, as it gives you more flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. However, once in Bonito, most attractions require guided tours with authorized agencies anyway, so don’t worry if you prefer to rely on other transportation.
Best Time to Visit Bonito in Brazil
The high season runs from December to March (Brazilian summer) and July (school holidays). During these months, the weather is warm and perfect for water activities, but expect more crowds and higher prices.
My favorite time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-June or August-November) when there are fewer tourists, prices drop, and the weather is still pleasant. The water visibility tends to be at its best during the dry season (June to September), making it ideal for snorkeling and diving adventures.
If you’re wondering about things to do in Bonito during the rainy season (November to March), don’t worry too much. While occasional heavy rains might temporarily reduce water visibility, many attractions remain open, and the lush green landscape is especially beautiful during this time.
Top 27 Attractions & Activities in Bonito
Get ready for this rundown of what to do in Bonito! From crystal-clear rivers to impressive caves, I’ve gathered the best attractions and activities to experience this ecological paradise.
1. Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave)
The Gruta do Lago Azul is perhaps the most iconic and well-known attraction in Bonito, and for good reason! I still remember the sensation I felt when I descended into this huge cave and saw the sunlight filtering through, illuminating the blooming blue water below.
The cave is home to a lake with waters so blue that they seem unreal, like nature’s own light show.
The tour takes about two hours, and you’ll descend approximately 100 meters into the cave with a guide who explains the geological formation and importance of this natural monument. No swimming is allowed here, but the visual experience alone is worth the visit.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: try to book a morning tour when the sunlight creates the most vibrant blue reflections in the water.
2. Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata (Silver River Ecological Reserve)
This ecological retreat is known for its natural beauty, where you can go river floating, scuba diving, horseback riding, and bird watching.
If there’s one activity that defines what to do in Bonito, it’s floating down the Rio da Prata. The river earned its name from the reflective silvery sand at the bottom, creating a mirror-like effect that enhances the crystal-clear water.
The standard tour includes a short hike through preserved forest areas before you gear up with a wetsuit, mask, and snorkel. Then comes the magical part — you simply float downstream for about 2-3 hours, barely needing to swim as the gentle current carries you along. Below you, countless colorful fish go about their business as if you weren’t even there. It’s like being inside a natural aquarium!
For certified divers, Mergulho Rio da Prata offers an unforgettable freshwater diving experience. Unlike snorkeling in the same river, diving allows you to get closer to the river bottom and observe the underwater ecosystem from a completely different perspective.
What makes diving in Rio da Prata special compared to ocean diving is the exceptional clarity of the water and the unique ecosystem that thrives in this protected environment.
3. Abismo Anhumas (Anhumas Abyss)
For adventurous souls looking for unique things to do in Bonito, the Abismo Anhumas offers an unforgettable experience. This is definitely for the more adventurous traveler, but it’s well worth facing any fears of heights.
The experience begins with a 72-meter rappel descent into a massive cavern. Yes, you literally lower yourself down on a rope into this enormous underground chamber! Once at the bottom, you’ll find a stunning underground lake with incredibly clear waters perfect for snorkeling or diving.
What makes this attraction extra special are the massive underwater limestone formations that have developed over millions of years. Just keep in mind that this is one of the more expensive activities in Bonito.
4. Aquário Natural (Natural Aquarium)
Located on private property at the Baía Bonita ecological reserve, this attraction features a spring with some of the most transparent waters you’ll ever see.
After a pleasant walk through the forest, you’ll reach the spring where the snorkeling begins. Don’t worry if you’re not a strong swimmer, as life jackets are provided, and the current does most of the work.
This is also a great option for families with children who want to experience the magic of Bonito’s waters.
5. Rio Sucuri (Sucuri River)
Named after the anaconda snake (don’t worry, you’re unlikely to encounter one!), Rio Sucuri offers another spectacular river floating experience.
What sets this river apart is its slightly greener tint, created by the unique mineral composition and abundant underwater vegetation.
The tour begins with a ride to the starting point, followed by a walk through private farmland to reach the river spring. The snorkeling route is about 1.8 km long and takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete as you float downstream.
6. Boca da Onça
Boca da Onça is home to the highest accessible waterfall in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, with an impressive drop of 156 meters!
This attraction offers an incredible trail with 11 different waterfalls along the way, including the main Boca da Onça fall.
The standard tour involves a moderately challenging 4-5 hour hike through lush forest with stops at different waterfalls where you can take refreshing dips.
For adventure seekers, there’s also an optional 90-meter rappel alongside one of the smaller falls.
7. Estância Mimosa
This private nature reserve features a series of 8 beautiful waterfalls along the Mimoso River, with natural pools perfect for swimming.
The guided tour takes about 3-4 hours, following a well-maintained trail that connects the different waterfalls.
What makes this place special is how uncrowded it feels compared to some of Bonito’s more famous attractions. The owners limit daily visitors, creating a more intimate experience with nature.
8. Lagoa Misteriosa (Mysterious Lagoon)
This is probably one of my favorite experiences in Bonito! Lagoa Misteriosa is a flooded sinkhole with some of the clearest fresh waters I’ve ever seen. The lagoon is called mysterious because its real depth, which reaches more than 200 meters, is still unknown.
You can choose between snorkeling and diving experiences here. The unique lighting effects as sunlight penetrates the water create an otherworldly blue atmosphere that gives the lagoon its mysterious name.
The surrounding area is also beautiful, with a short trail leading to the lagoon that offers opportunities to spot local wildlife.
9. Buraco das Araras (Macaw’s Hole)
Located about 50 km from Bonito, Buraco das Araras is an enormous sinkhole that serves as home to dozens of red-and-green macaws.
This massive geological formation is about 100 meters deep and 160 meters wide, creating a unique ecosystem within its walls.
The visit includes a walking trail around the sinkhole’s edge with several observation points where you can watch the macaws flying in and out of their nesting sites in the rock walls.
The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active.
10. Gruta do Mimoso
Less visited than some of Bonito’s other caves, Gruta do Mimoso offers a more intimate caving experience with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Here you can swim in its underground waters — a truly magical experience.
The tour includes a guided exploration of the cave’s chambers, with explanations about the geological processes that formed these impressive structures over millions of years.
The lighting inside is kept minimal to preserve the natural environment, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
11. Grutas de São Miguel
Grutas de São Miguel features some of the most impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations in the region.
The cave system includes multiple chambers, each with its own unique characteristics and formations.
The guided tour takes about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll learn about the geological processes that created these fascinating formations over thousands of years.
The guides use flashlights to highlight specific features, bringing out the natural colors and textures of the limestone.
12. Gruta da Catedral (Cathedral Cave)
Formerly known as Gruta São Mateus, this cave earned its “Cathedral” nickname from the impressive main chamber that resembles a cathedral’s nave.
The tall ceilings and natural columns create a sense of reverence similar to what you might feel in a grand religious building.
The guided tour takes you through narrow passages that suddenly open into vast chambers. The play of light and shadow on the limestone formations creates an almost spiritual atmosphere.
13. Balneário Municipal de Bonito
The Balneário Municipal is an excellent place to take a break and relax from guided tours. This public swimming area on the Formoso River offers crystal-clear waters that are perfect for cooling off on hot days.
Facilities include picnic areas, changing rooms, and simple food vendors. The main swimming area is relatively shallow and family-friendly, though there are deeper sections for more confident swimmers.
Unlike many attractions in Bonito, you can visit the Balneário independently without a guide.
14. Cachoeiras do Rio do Peixe
The Rio do Peixe Waterfalls offer a series of cascades and natural pools along the Fish River.
What makes this attraction special is the opportunity to see different types of waterfalls in one location — from gentle cascades to more powerful falls. On the tour, there are seven bathing stops, a trampoline, a jumping platform, waterfalls, and a zip line.
It’s also a great spot for bird watching, with dozens of species inhabiting the surrounding forest.
15. Boia Cross Bonito
For a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity, Boia Cross on the Formoso River is hard to beat!
This activity involves riding inflatable tubes down small rapids and calm stretches of the river, creating a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.
Unlike the snorkeling activities where you observe the underwater world, Boia Cross lets you focus on the surrounding landscape and the refreshing sensation of the river.
The guides lead you through a series of rapids (nothing too extreme), with calm stretches in between where you can chat with fellow travelers and enjoy the scenery.
16. Balneário do Sol
Balneário do Sol is a lovely riverside reserve on the Formoso River with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
What sets this spot apart from other balneários is its well-maintained infrastructure and beautiful landscaping that blends harmoniously with the natural environment.
The area features several natural pools of varying depths, with some shallow sections ideal for children. There’s also a water slide built into the natural rock formations that’s surprisingly fun even for adults.
17. Ilha Bonita
Ilha Bonita (Beautiful Island) is a charming swimming spot on the Formoso River where a small island divides the crystal-clear waters into channels ideal for relaxing floats.
The calm waters make this an excellent option for families with children or those looking for a less adventurous water experience.
It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an entire afternoon without feeling the need to do anything more active than float in the refreshing river or enjoy a cold drink in the shade.
18. Balneário Nascente Azul
Balneário Nascente Azul gets its name from the striking blue spring that feeds into the swimming areas.
The water here is so clear that it creates a natural magnifying effect, making fish and underwater plants appear closer than they actually are.
The main attraction is the spring itself, where you can observe the water bubbling up from underground in a mesmerizing display of nature’s power.
There are designated swimming areas where you can cool off, though swimming directly over the spring is prohibited to protect this natural wonder.
The surrounding grounds are well-maintained, with plenty of shade and picnic areas for relaxing between swims.
19. Balneário Refúgio da Barra
This spot is known for offering a day-use in one of the most crystal-clear stretches of the Formoso River, with a more exclusive service thanks to the limited number of visitors.
The place offers floating in the river and stand-up paddle rentals for a 600-meter stretch. There is also a restaurant with a delicious regional menu.
20. Barra do Sucuri
Barra do Sucuri marks the meeting point of the Sucuri and Formoso rivers, creating another unique swimming experience.
The aim here is to float in the emerald green waters of Barra do Sucuri. This tour is different from the Sucuri River float (number 5 on this list), as the latter includes the river’s spring.
21. Bio Park Bonito
Bio Park Bonito offers a different type of experience focused on local wildlife and environmental education.
This small but well-maintained park features rescued animals native to the region, including macaws, toucans, capybaras, and various reptiles.
The guided tour explains the ecological importance of each species and the conservation challenges facing the region.
This is a great activity for rainy days or for a break from water-based attractions. It’s also excellent for families with children who want to learn more about the animals that inhabit the ecosystems they’ve been swimming in.
22. Ceita Corê
Ceita Corê offers one of the most diverse experiences in the Bonito region, combining waterfalls, natural pools, and cave exploration all in one location.
The name comes from the indigenous Tupi-Guarani language and means “many waters.”
The tour includes a hike that rewards visitors with access to multiple waterfalls and swimming spots of varying sizes.
23. Eco Park Porto da Ilha
Eco Park Porto da Ilha offers a collection of activities centered around a beautiful stretch of the Formoso River. The park combines natural attractions with comfortable infrastructure, making it ideal for families or those seeking a less rugged experience.
Activities include floating in tubes down a gentle stretch of river, swimming in natural pools, and short hiking trails through preserved forest areas.
There’s also a restaurant, where you can try the traditional regional cuisine, allowing you to make a full day of your visit.
24. Parque das Cachoeiras
Parque das Cachoeiras (Waterfall Park) features a series of seven beautiful waterfalls along a well-maintained trail system.
The guided tour includes information about the local ecosystem and the geological processes that created these waterfalls.
Most of the falls have natural pools at their base where swimming is permitted, offering refreshing breaks throughout the hike.
25. Praia da Figueira
Praia da Figueira (Fig Tree Beach) is a beautiful sandy beach along the Formoso River that creates a surprising coastal feel in the middle of Brazil’s interior.
The clear waters here flow over a sandy bottom, creating ideal conditions for swimming and relaxing.
The space offers a vast range of activities that the visitor can choose from.
26. Projeto Jibóia
Projeto Jibóia is a conservation-focused attraction centered around Brazil’s snake species, particularly the jiboia.
This educational center offers guided tours where visitors can learn about these often misunderstood animals and their ecological importance.
The visit includes opportunities to see various snake species up close (always safely handled by trained professionals) and learn about their habits, habitat needs, and the challenges they face due to habitat loss and human fear.
For the brave, there’s even a chance to touch or hold some of the non-venomous species.
27. Serra da Bodoquena
Serra da Bodoquena National Park forms the geological backdrop for all of Bonito’s attractions. This limestone plateau is what creates the region’s crystal-clear rivers and impressive cave systems.
Several tours offer hiking experiences through different parts of this massive protected area. The landscape varies from open cerrado (savanna) to dense forests. The biodiversity here is impressive, with opportunities to spot exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bonito
Here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
- Book tours in advance: Bonito operates on a system that limits the number of visitors to each attraction daily to preserve the environment. During high season, tours can sell out weeks in advance, so plan accordingly.
- Pack appropriately: Essential items include sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, water shoes, and quick-drying clothes. Even in summer, it can get cool in the evenings, so bring a light jacket.
- Follow environmental guidelines: The reason Bonito’s waters remain so pristine is the strict environmental controls. always follow your guide’s instructions.
- Learn basic Portuguese phrases: While tourism professionals often speak some English, knowing a few Portuguese words will enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals.
- Allow enough time: To properly experience the best things to do in Bonito, I recommend staying at least 4 days. Many attractions are located in different directions from the town, and most tours take a half or full day.
Helpful Tools for Planning Your Trip
Here are some of my go-to resources to make your trip to Bonito — and Brazil in general — safer, smoother, and more enjoyable:
🗺️ Tours and tickets: I recommend GetYourGuide for skip-the-line tickets and guided tours, including visits to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
💳 Money transfers & cards: Wise is my favorite way to manage money internationally — fair rates, fast transfers and super easy to use.
📶 SIM card: Stay connected with Airalo — it’s an eSIM you can set up before you land.
🧳 Travel insurance: Don’t skip this! I usually go with SafetyWing for flexible and reliable coverage.
🛏️ Hostels: Hostelworld always has solid options and great filters to find hostels close to the main attractions.
Bonito truly lives up to its name as one of Brazil’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates pristine nature, the things to do in Bonito offer experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.
I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Bonito in Brazil! Feel free to comment below with any questions, and don’t forget to share your own experiences if you’ve visited this amazing destination. Happy travels!