Bonito Travel Guide (Mato Grosso do Sul/Central West/Brazil/South America)

Introduction to Bonito

Bonito is a pristine destination located in Mato Grosso do Sul, a state in Central-Western Brazil. This small town offers awe-inspiring natural landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, underground caves, and a wide variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Its name translates to “beautiful” in Portuguese, and it is no wonder why it is one of the most popular ecotourism destinations in the country.

In this travel guide to Bonito, we will provide you with a list of the must-see places, the best activities, local culture and customs, travel logistics, and extras to help you make the most of your stay.

List of Places to Visit in Bonito

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

While Bonito is mostly known for its natural attractions, it also has a rich cultural and historical background. The Bonito Museum is a great starting point, where visitors can learn about the history of the town, its founders, and the agricultural and cattle-raising activities that fueled the region’s development.

Another must-visit cultural spot is the Fazenda San Francisco, one of the oldest cattle ranches in the area. The farm provides a glimpse into the colonial era, where visitors can enjoy a horse ride, rafting, and bird watching.

Natural Attractions of Bonito: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The real gem of Bonito is its nature. The town has more than 30 excellent diving spots with crystal-clear waters, where visitors can observe rare aquatic species such as piranhas, caymans, and giant otters. The most famous sites include the Formoso River, the Rio Prata, and the Rio da Prata.

The Anhumas Abyss is also an impressive natural attraction in Bonito. It is an underground lake, where visitors can partake in scuba diving, abseiling, or snorkeling through the crystal clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking limestone formations that reach up to 72 meters tall.

Bonito also offers many nature walking trails, such as the Blue Lake Cave and the Rio do Peixe trail. Both routes offer a close-up view of diverse flora and fauna, with plenty of opportunities to spot exotic wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bonito

For outdoor enthusiasts looking for an intense experience, Bonito offers several biking and hiking trails. One of the longest hiking routes is the Serra da Bodoquena National Park trail, which covers over 10 km and takes about six hours to complete. The trail offers stunning views of waterfalls, rainforests, crystal-clear rivers, and small caves.

Another popular hiking spot is the Cachoeiras da Boca da Onça, which boasts a waterfall cascade of almost 400 meters. This trail is an excellent option for trekking, rope activities, and swimming.

Best Things to Do in Bonito: Activities and Tours

Bonito offers plenty of activities and tours besides nature exploring. Visitors can choose between several options ranging from food tours to bar hopping, going on a boat ride or even taking river tubing.

The Float River tour on the Formoso River is one of the most popular activities. Visitors float down the river on inflatables while observing the beautiful surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bonito

Here’s an itinerary suggestion for a week-long trip to Bonito:

Day 1: Caving - visit the Anhumas Abyss for a day of exploration
Day 2: Snorkeling - explore the Marine park
Day 3: Biking - take a cycling tour to the Pantanal
Day 4: Hiking - Visit Serra da Bodoquena National Park trail
Day 5: Food tour - taste the local cuisine
Day 6: Canyoning - experience exploring waterfalls
Day 7: Relaxation day - visit one of the beautiful rivers in the area

Food and Drink Scene of Bonito

Must-Try Dishes

Bonito is known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine, especially the rich meat-based dishes. One of the must-try dishes is the Feijoada, a stew made with black beans, salted pork, sausages, and beef. It’s often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Visitors should also sample the Carne de sol, a dish made with sun-cured meat that is marinated and roasted. The dish is often served on a skewer with sides like farofa (toasted manioc flour), fried cassava, and rice.

Local Beverages

Cachaca, a Brazilian rum made from sugar cane, is the most popular drink in Bonito. Locals typically drink it straight, with lime and sugar, or mixed into cocktails. Another must-try is the Guarana Antarctica, a well-known soda made from the Guarana fruit.

Where to Stay in Bonito: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bonito offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxurious. Some of the hotels in the area include Pousada Olho D’Água, Wetiga Hotel, and Hotel Bonsai. Alternatively, visitors can choose cozy guesthouses like Recanto dos Pássaros, or hostel accommodations like the Papaya Hostel. No matter which option you choose, you’ll enjoy the hospitality and beauty of the area.

What to Buy in Bonito: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can purchase several souvenirs when visiting Bonito, including local crafts, shirts, and hats. Some of the common handicrafts include stones, crochet items, and handmade purses and bags.

A famous local product to take home is the delicious jam made from the region’s abundant guava crop. Alternatively, visitors can buy honey, handmade cheese, and sweets.

Local Culture and Customs of Bonito

The culture of Bonito is heavily influenced by its indigenous inhabitants, especially the Guaraní people. The town celebrates several indigenous traditions during festivals, and visitors can also learn about the Guaraní history and culture at the Bonito Museum.

While Bonito is welcoming to visitors year-round, it’s essential to respect the local customs and culture. Visitors should always ask before taking photos of locals or traditional events, dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites, and avoid making derogatory comments or gestures.

Best Time to Visit Bonito

The dry season is the best time to visit Bonito as it ensures the best weather for outdoor activities. Between April and November, the temperature is around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), which makes it ideal for hiking, swimming, and other activities. December through March is the rainy season, making it harder to take advantage of outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bonito

Do:

Take advantage of the outdoor activities and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Try the local cuisine, especially the meat-based dishes
Respect the local customs and cultural festivities
Book accommodations and activities ahead to avoid last-minute complications

Don’t:

Disregard the safety and health precautions
Litter or harm the environment
Engage in activities that could harm animals or plants
Disrespect local culture and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Bonito

Bonito is generally a safe place to visit, although there are a few precautions that visitors should take. Visitors are advised not to walk alone late at night or in deserted areas. Lock valuables and documents in the hotel safe, and avoid carrying too much cash.

Health in Bonito

Before traveling to Bonito, visitors should consult with a health professional to get proper information on any necessary vaccinations. Visitors should also avoid drinking tap water and consume only bottled water.

In case of any health emergencies, visitors can go to the emergency room of the Municipal Hospital.

Getting to Bonito: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bonito

The nearest commercial airport to Bonito is the Campo Grande International Airport, located about 4 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Bonito

The main bus station that serves Bonito is called Bonito Bus Station. Visitors can take buses to Campo Grande or other nearby cities.

Other Options

In addition to buses, visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi from the Campo Grande International Airport. It’s important to book transportation ahead of time, especially during peak season.

How to Get Around in Bonito

The best way to get around Bonito is by car, which visitors can rent from the airport or one of the rental companies in town. Alternatively, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bike tour to visit the sites located closer to the town center.

Where to Go Next from Bonito: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bonito is a central point to many other great travel destinations. One of the top nearby excursions is the Pantanal, which offers wildlife safaris and birdwatching opportunities. Other great options include Campo Grande or Sao Paulo, both of which offer many historical and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Bonito is a nature lover’s paradise, offering unforgettable experiences and an opportunity to explore natural beauty. With its unique attractions, rich heritage, and welcoming locals, Bonito is one of Brazil’s most picturesque and memorable destinations. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Bonito.