Things to Do in Bonito, Brazil: A Complete Travel Guide

Bonito, in Mato Grosso do Sul, is Brazil’s ecotourism capital — famous for its crystal-clear waters, caves and trails. If you are planning a trip, here are the must-see attractions, with a tip: the very same nature that draws visitors from around the world makes Bonito an exceptional destination for birdwatching.

Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave)

One of the largest flooded caves on the planet, with a lake that glows an intense blue when sunlight hits the water. Discovered in 1924, it even holds fossils of prehistoric megafauna. A Bonito classic.

Rio da Prata

The region’s most famous snorkeling float: you drift down a river of transparent water surrounded by dozens of fish species, such as dourados and piraputangas. A serene and unforgettable experience.

Rio Sucuri

Considered one of the clearest rivers in the world, the Sucuri offers a gentle float through turquoise-tinged water, among aquatic gardens and preserved riverside forest.

Boca da Onça

Home to the tallest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul, with a drop of around 156 metres. The complex offers trails through preserved forest, a sequence of waterfalls, natural pools and rappelling for the more adventurous.

Buraco das Araras (Macaw Sinkhole)

An enormous sinkhole with reddish cliffs, home to a resident flock of Red-and-green Macaws (Ara chloropterus). It is the perfect bridge between nature tourism and birdwatching — it is impossible not to be moved as they cross the chasm.

Practical tips

In Bonito, tours run on a voucher and advance-booking system — reserve ahead, especially in high season. On snorkeling tours, sunscreen is usually banned to protect the rivers; wear UV-protective clothing instead. Bring insect repellent, a hat and proper trail footwear.

Add birdwatching to your trip

While caves and rivers fill the afternoon, mornings in Bonito are a show of their own. Before sunrise, the gallery forests burst with life: macaws, toucans, seriemas and dozens of Cerrado species. A guided birdwatching outing — even a half-day — is the perfect way to start the day and discover the wild side of Bonito.

Combine Bonito’s classic attractions with a morning of birdwatching. Bird Bonito guides outings for all levels, from beginners to experienced birders.