Bonito
Bonito is a true paradise where visitors can experience rivers with crystal-clear waters and the contrast of the colorful fish against the intense green backdrop of the native forests.
Bonito, a city in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, is one of the main ecotourism and adventure tourism destinations in Brazil. The name of the place, which means beautiful, totally lives up to its reputation. Located 300 km from the state capital, in Serra da Bodoquena, the city is very easy to get to.
Local attractions such as the Lago Azul Cave (blue lake cave), Mimoso Cave, the Natural Aquarium, and the Sucuri River (anaconda river) stand out for their incredible beauty. In addition, visitors will have a lot of contact with nature as well as peace and quiet. Available activities in the region include rafting, floating (snorkeling) in small natural lakes, tree climbing, visiting waterfalls and caves, hiking local trails, inner-tubing, and scuba diving.
Natural pool in Bonito
The dry season, between the months of May and August, is the best time to experience the crystal-clear waters of the local rivers. It is also when fish are more numerous. However, it is the local winter, so when you plan your visit, pack light clothes as well as warm clothes. It gets pretty warm during the days, but temperatures might drop at night.
The Anhumas Abyss, a huge cave located 23 km from the city, is also a worthwhile attraction. Visitors have to rappel down into the cave, where they can go scuba diving. Certified divers are allowed to dive beyond 18 meters. The experience reveals new images, luminosity, and the vastness of one of the most amazing caves on our planet.
The local wildlife is rich and expressive, and comprises several bird species such as harpy eagles, king vultures, macaws, toucans, and curassows. There are also plenty of other animal species, such as anteaters, armadillos, cougars, maned wolves, deer, hoary foxes, as well as a large number of invertebrate species. Fish are obviously an important part of the local cuisine. Pacu, Pintado, and Dorado are the most popular types of fish in the region, and are served either fried, grilled, or in stews. The dishes are normally served with a delicious side of banana farofa (toasted cassava flour mixed with sliced banana).
Rio Formoso Ecological Park, with its breathtaking scenery and lush vegetation, is located only 8 km from the city of Bonito. Lagoa Misteriosa (Mysterious Lagoon), on the other hand, is a little farther away, 52 km. Containing blue waters and the seventh deepest cave in Brazil, It is an unbelievable place.
If you are up to it, you can totally take advantage of the fact that you are in the right region and visit the famous Pantanal, one of the largest biodiversity reserves in the world, as it is just 160 km from Bonito. It is advisable to make reservations in advance, though, especially in the high season (the months of July, December, January, and February, and also long weekends).
By Plane
Campo Grande International Airport: +55 (67) 3368-6000
Bonito Regional Airport: +55 (67) 3255-3222
Visitors flying in can choose to land at the airport in Campo Grande, the state capital, or fly directly to Bonito Regional Airport. After having landed at Campo Grande Airport, visitors can rent a car or hire a bus/van service to get to Bonito.
By Bus
+55 (64) 3454-3530
Visitors can make the journey from Campo Grande to Bonito by bus. It is a 300-km trip and takes approximately five hours.
Personal Vehicles or Rentals
A great option is to rent a car when you arrive at Campo Grande airport. This way, when you get to Bonito, you will be more independent to choose which attractions to visit at your own leisure.
Van Service
You can hire a local van service to get to the main attractions around the city of Bonito.
Personal Vehicles and Rentals
A good option to get around the city and visit nearby destinations is to rent a car.
Useful Numbers
Bonito Tourism Department:
+55 (67) 3255-2160
Bonito City Hall:
+55 (67) 3255-1351
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
Power Voltage
220V
Local Weather
We recommend light clothes, a cap, and plenty of sunscreen. The weather in the region is mild to warm, and temperatures range between 18°C and 27°C.
