If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel destination in Brazil, Bonito is an excellent choice! This charming town is famous for its stunning natural scenery, including caves, waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers—perfect for snorkeling and nature lovers.
In this article, we’ll explore the top attractions in Bonito and share how to make the most of your trip.
Where is Bonito in Brazil?
Bonito is a small town located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, in the Central-West region of Brazil. It’s part of the Serra da Bodoquena region and lies about 300 km (186 miles) from the state capital, Campo Grande.
Despite its relatively remote location, Bonito is well-connected by road and has its own small airport (Bonito Airport – BYO), which receives direct flights from major Brazilian cities like São Paulo. Most travelers, however, arrive via Campo Grande International Airport (CGR) and take a road transfer or bus to Bonito — a scenic journey of around 4–5 hours.
What makes Bonito truly special is its proximity to crystal-clear rivers, stunning caves, waterfalls, and lush forests, making it one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Brazil.
Whether you’re coming from within Brazil or abroad, Bonito is worth the trip for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and sustainability.
How to get to Bonito, Brazil
There are a few different ways to reach Bonito, depending on your location and travel preferences:
1. By Car:
If you’re coming from a nearby city, renting a car and driving to Bonito can be a convenient option. The town is located about 300 km (186 miles) from Campo Grande, the capital of Mato Grosso do Sul, and around 1,100 km (684 miles) from São Paulo. You can rent a car in either city and enjoy a road trip through the countryside to Bonito.
2. By Bus:
Another option is taking a bus to Bonito. Several bus companies offer daily departures from Campo Grande and other nearby cities. The buses are usually comfortable and offer a budget-friendly way to get to Bonito.
3. By Plane:
Bonito has a small airport (BYO) with regular flights from some Brazilian cities such as São Paulo, Campinas, and Brasília. However, airfare can be more expensive compared to other means of transportation.
Best time to visit Bonito
The best time to visit Bonito is during the dry season, from April to September, when the weather is more pleasant and the water visibility in rivers and waterfalls is at its best — perfect for snorkeling and floating tours.
During this period, the days are typically warm and sunny, while the nights are cool and comfortable. However, keep in mind that it’s also the high season, so prices may be higher and attractions more crowded.
If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the low season (October to March). While you might encounter occasional rain, it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities and the region’s stunning natural beauty.
How many days should you stay in Bonito?
It’s recommended to spend at least 4 to 5 days in Bonito to fully enjoy all the activities the region has to offer.
This allows time for a variety of experiences like snorkeling in crystal-clear rivers, exploring caves, hiking to waterfalls, birdwatching, and much more.
If you have more time, you can easily spend a full week in Bonito and still find new and exciting places to explore. Many travelers also choose to combine their trip to Bonito with nearby destinations such as Pantanal or Bodoquena.
What to do in Bonito, Brazil
Traveling to Bonito is a unique and unforgettable experience for those who love nature and adventure. Located in the heart of Mato Grosso do Sul, the town is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, with crystal-clear rivers, lush waterfalls, impressive caves, and diverse wildlife and plant life.
From floating tours in transparent rivers, to caves, waterfalls, boat rides, and eco-experiences on local farms, Bonito is a destination that truly offers something for everyone, regardless of age or travel style.
There’s no doubt that a trip to Bonito will leave you with amazing memories and a deep connection to nature.
Must-see attractions in Bonito
- Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Cave): A stunning cave featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites, plus a crystal-clear lake with a mesmerizing turquoise-blue color.
- River Floating: One of Bonito’s most famous activities! Float gently down crystal-clear rivers and observe the rich underwater life. Top spots include Rio da Prata, Rio Sucuri, and Aquário Natural.
- Waterfalls: Bonito is full of beautiful waterfalls, like Cachoeira do Rio do Peixe, where you can enjoy a scenic hike and swim in refreshing natural pools.
- Caves & Caverns: In addition to Blue Lake Cave, you can visit other underground wonders like Gruta de São Miguel and the mysterious Lagoa Misteriosa.
- Boat Rides: Explore the flora and fauna of the Rio Formoso on a fun and adventurous boat trip.
- Eco-Farms: Many local farms in Bonito offer eco-tourism experiences such as horseback riding, biking, wildlife observation, and delicious local meals.
Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, is truly a dream destination for travelers looking to connect with nature and enjoy exciting outdoor adventures. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip and inspires you to explore everything this magical region has to offer!
