Things To Do
in Bonito
Bonito is a town in Brazil known for its crystal-clear river waters and rich biodiversity, making it a popular ecotourism destination. The town is surrounded by lush forests, caves, and waterfalls, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife-watching. Tourists can explore the stunning underwater landscapes while snorkeling or scuba diving in the rivers, filled with colorful fish and other aquatic life.
The town also boasts well-preserved natural attractions, such as the Blue Lake Cave and the Buraco das Araras, a sinkhole inhabited by macaws.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the Blue Lake Cave, known for its stunning blue waters and impressive limestone formations. Enjoy a guided tour where you can marvel at the abundant stalactites and stalagmites.
Head to the Rio da Prata for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Swim among colorful fish and vibrant aquatic plants in crystal-clear water.
After a thrilling day, relax in your accommodation and refresh with a delicious local dinner. Consider trying the famous 'pintado' fish served in various ways.
Take a refreshing dip in the Natural Aquarium of Bonito, where a variety of fish species swim around you. This unique experience offers the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters teeming with life.
Visit the Balneário do Sol with its natural pools and relaxing beach areas. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking up the sun surrounded by nature.
Wrap up your day with a stroll around the charming town center. Stop by a local café for dessert and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls
- Rich biodiversity and opportunities for ecotourism
- Great for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking
- Well-preserved environment with strict tourism regulations
- Charming local culture and friendly community
- Limited accessibility due to its remote location
- Higher costs for accommodations and activities compared to other Brazilian destinations
- Can be overcrowded during peak tourist seasons
- Environmental concerns regarding tourism impact
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Bonito
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the underwater world and observe colorful fish and aquatic plants in the clear rivers of Bonito.
Discover the stunning limestone caves and their unique formations through guided tours in the region.
Enjoy a relaxing float down the peaceful rivers of Bonito while taking in the lush surrounding scenery.
Discover the untouched natural beauty of Bonito through various hiking trails that showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bonito with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bonito
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning underground cave with crystal clear blue waters, ideal for photography.
Offers scenic views and opportunities for snorkeling and photography.
Features a breathtaking underground lake, perfect for capturing unique perspectives.
Boasts beautiful cascading waters amidst lush greenery, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Offers picturesque landscapes and a vibrant natural spring, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Bonito
Bonito Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with fresh fish, tomatoes, onions, and cassava flour, reflecting the abundant fish found in the region's rivers. Best enjoyed at Casa do João, a popular restaurant known for its superb Sobá.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish featuring rice and the unique pequi fruit, known for its distinct flavor. Look for this dish at Churrascaria Paiaguás, one of the best places to savor this local specialty.
A beloved Brazilian sweet treat made from caramelized milk, often served as a spread or as a filling in pastries. For the best Doce de Leite, visit Casa do Ribeirão, a charming café renowned for its homemade desserts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bonito better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market is a lively hub of local flavors and food vendors offering an array of traditional snacks, freshly squeezed fruit juices, and artisanal crafts. Don't miss trying pastéis, Brazilian savory pastries, at one of the stalls.
This charming market showcases the region's culinary delights, from exotic fruits to artisanal cheeses and smoked meats. It's an ideal place to taste local delicacies and purchase food souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bonito, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to people, especially during conversations.
Showing respect for local customs and traditions, such as being polite and friendly when interacting with the locals, is highly valued in Bonito.
When visiting the natural attractions and beaches in Bonito, it's respectful to wear appropriate swimwear and clothing that aligns with local standards.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bonito with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bonito
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bonito, Brazil, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff is also considered a sign of gratitude for excellent service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Bonito, Brazil, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and when visiting rural areas. ATMs are readily available in the town center for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit; ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Expect sunny days and cooler nights.
Expect occasional rainfall, lush green landscapes, and higher water levels in rivers and waterfalls. Suitable for birdwatching and enjoying the vibrant vegetation.
Bonito at Night
Hiking in Bonito
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Explore various trails in the Bonito Ecological Park, featuring stunning waterfalls and unique geological formations.
This trail leads to the Boca da Onça waterfall and includes views of the beautiful surrounding landscapes and wildlife.
A hiking spot that offers guided tours through trails along rivers, showcasing the region's crystal-clear waters and natural beauty.
A stunning hiking spot that combines walking trails with opportunities for snorkeling in the clear waters of the river.
Situated nearby, this national park offers extensive hiking trails with diverse wildlife and breathtaking views.
Aiports
How to reach Bonito by plane.
The nearest airport serving Bonito, Brazil. It has domestic flights and serves as a gateway to the region's ecotourism.
Located in Campo Grande, approximately 300 km from Bonito, it is the largest international airport in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Curitiba, approximately 950 km from Bonito, it is a major airport that serves numerous domestic and international destinations.
Situated in São Paulo, about 1,200 km from Bonito, it is Brazil's largest international airport, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Located in Brasília, approximately 1,050 km from Bonito, it handles both domestic and international flights and serves as a key transit point in Brazil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of European descent, representing a significant portion of the population.
People of various ethnic backgrounds, often a combination of European, Indigenous, and African ancestry.
Individuals of African descent, making up a notable segment of the population.
Native groups who have historical ties to the land and maintain cultural traditions.
A smaller demographic group primarily comprising immigrants or descendants from Asian countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Brazil, including Bonito, where locals and visitors play in fields and organized leagues.
While not a traditional sport, eco-tourism activities like rafting, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular in Bonito's natural attractions.
Beach volleyball and indoor volleyball are popular among locals, with many recreational games being played.
Basketball has a following in Bonito, with locals participating in community games and tournaments.
Cycling is a favored activity among those exploring the scenic landscapes of Bonito.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonito.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional local cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants and cafes in Bonito offer flavorful vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as hearts of palm stew and cassava-based pastries.
Several dining establishments in Bonito cater to gluten-free diets, with offerings like tapioca crepes, fresh salads, and grilled vegetables. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with the staff for a personalized dining experience.