Bonito
Mato Grosso do Sul
Bonito is a municipality in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, renowned as a top ecotourism destination. It features pristine natural environments including crystal-clear rivers, caves, waterfalls, and dolines. The area offers over 30 tours centered on exploring its unique ecology, such as snorkeling in the Rio da Prata and Aquário Natural, rappelling into the Anhumas Abyss cave, and visiting the Blue Lake Cave with its deep, crystal-clear waters. The municipality is part of the Serra da Bodoquena National Park complex and is recognized for sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental conservation. Bonito's hospitality ranges from luxury resorts to budget accommodations, and most tours require booking through accredited agencies with official guides. The city is also culturally enriched by sites like the Casa da Memória Raída, dedicated to preserving local history and indigenous heritage. Bonito's natural beauty and commitment to sustainable tourism make it a unique destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Tip: The best times to visit Bonito are during the dry season, from July to December, when water clarity is optimal for snorkeling and diving. Due to high demand, especially from July and December to March, it is advisable to book tours and accommodations well in advance. Most tours require booking through official agencies in town, which provide accredited guides. Visitors can find a range of accommodations, from five-star resorts to budget-friendly pousadas. English is commonly spoken in upscale hotels but less so in smaller establishments. Consider flying into Campo Grande International Airport and then taking a connecting flight or a 4-hour road trip to Bonito.
Interesting facts
- •The Anhumas Abyss features some of the world's largest underwater stalagmites, reaching up to 18 meters high.
- •The Blue Lake Cave is one of the largest flooded caves globally, with a crystal-clear lake approximately 90 meters deep.
- •Bonito is considered the Brazilian capital of ecotourism due to its biodiversity and sustainable tourism efforts.
- •In 2024, Bonito ranked among the top 10 most sought-after destinations in Brazil.
- •Most tours in Bonito require an accredited guide and must be booked through official agencies to ensure environmental protection.
History
Bonito's origins trace back to 1869 when Euzébio Captain Luiz da Costa Leite Falcão acquired the land known as Rincão Bonito Fazenda.
The area was officially established as the District of Paz de Bonito in 1915, initially subordinate to the Municipality of Miranda.
It underwent administrative changes during the creation of the Federal Territory of Ponta Porã in 1943 and was restored to Mato Grosso state after the 1946 Federal Constitution.
Bonito became an independent municipality in 1948, with its seat in the town of Bonito.
Over the decades, it has evolved into a leading ecotourism hub, emphasizing sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
Place Guide
Anhumas Abyss (Abismo Anhumas)
A spectacular natural attraction where visitors rappel 72 meters down into a vast cave housing a crystal-clear underground lake. The lake is about 80 meters deep and features enormous underwater stalagmites up to 18 meters tall, offering unique snorkeling and diving experiences.
Rio da Prata (Silver River)
A snorkeling tour in crystal-clear waters abundant with fish, combined with a scenic forest walk and a traditional lunch. It offers visitors a close encounter with the region's aquatic biodiversity.
Aquário Natural (Natural Aquarium)
This tour begins with a 25-minute jungle walk, followed by a 900-meter snorkel through a river where visitors float alongside fish and observe underwater vegetation. The experience concludes with a visit to a natural history museum highlighting regional biodiversity.
Circuito Arvorismo (The Trees Circuit)
An adventure trek featuring suspended steel walkways through native trees like aroeira and mahogany. Platforms are positioned 10 to 20 meters above ground, allowing visitors to experience the forest canopy from a unique perspective.
Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave)1924
A natural monument featuring a cave discovered in 1924 by a local indigenous person. Visitors descend 100 meters into the cave to view a deep, crystal-clear lake approximately 90 meters deep, renowned for its striking blue waters.
Casa da Memória Raída
A cultural space and museum dedicated to preserving Bonito's local history and indigenous heritage. It houses photographs, artifacts, documents, and materials related to the early settlers and native peoples of the region. The museum also hosts educational activities and storytelling sessions.
