What are the main tours in Bonito?

All Tours in Bonito and the Surrounding Area: Unique Experiences

All tours in Bonito and the surrounding region are incredible and very well-structured, but each one has its own uniqueness and beauty. Some will fit your profile better than others, and that's completely normal, even if they seem similar. In this text, we will explain the differences between each tour. Since there are several "similar" options, it's common to think they are all the same for all ages, have no restrictions, or are the same distance from each other, among other misconceptions. But that’s not the case. For example, the snorkeling tours, which are the main attractions in Bonito and the region, are unforgettable experiences that have made Bonito famous worldwide and one of the most desired destinations in recent years.

And what brought much of this recognition to the city are these snorkeling tours. In total, there are 6 snorkeling tours—get to know them below.

Gruta Catedral

Snorkeling Tours in Bonito - MS

You have probably seen many videos and photos from Bonito, where visitors float among fish and aquatic plants in incredibly crystal-clear waters. Believe it—it’s real! Even if you don’t have great swimming skills or don’t know how to swim, you can still do the tours comfortably.

The neoprene suit and life vest (already included in the tour) give you 100% buoyancy, meaning you won’t sink at all! Plus, a guide will accompany the group throughout the entire journey, ensuring everyone feels comfortable for a better experience.

Aquário Natural

Known for being one of the snorkeling tours with the best fish visibility, this tour is set in the Baía Bonita River. The entire route is filled with underwater vegetation and various fish species. It’s also one of the tours that includes a support boat that follows the group along the entire route.

Additionally, Aquário Natural is the closest snorkeling tour to the city, making it a great option for travelers with limited time who want to make the most of their visit.

Nascente Azul

Known for being the snorkeling tour with the most activities and an extremely complete structure, the Nascente Azul tour allows you to do apnea, where you can dive in the spring itself.

Other activities at Nascente Azul include:

• The largest zipline in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul,

• The Human Pendulum,

• Morro da Luneta, offering a privileged view of the Serra da Bodoquena,

• A mini Pantanal with various species, including alligators,

• And many other activities, including a natural swimming area, an aquatic zipline, Aqualoko (an aquatic obstacle course), and more!

This makes it a great option for those traveling with family or friends who want to enjoy a complete and relaxing environment, while also saving time.

Rio Sucuri

This river is famous for being the third clearest river in the world, with surreal water tones that impress every visitor. The riverbed resembles an ocean floor, but with freshwater.

We often get asked about the difference between Rio Sucuri and Barra do Sucuri. Both tours take place on the same river but in different sections.

• In Barra do Sucuri, you go up the river on an electric boat and float down.

• In Rio Sucuri, you float downstream for a longer distance, visiting five main springs, which makes it more attractive. Not only do you have the incredible experience of floating in one of the clearest rivers in the world, but you also visit the five springs—something quite unique. The tour also includes a support boat that follows you the entire way, in case you feel insecure or get tired and need to exit the water.

  
  

Nascentes da Serra

This is the newest snorkeling tour in the region, formed by the junction of the Azul and Salobra rivers in Bodoquena.

Although the crystal-clear waters are amazing, this tour doesn’t offer the best fish visibility. However, its incredible scenic beauty makes up for that.

Since it’s close to the Pantanal, the water temperature here is slightly lower than in other spots. Nascentes da Serra is also the only tour that lets visitors experience the Pantanal, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest ecosystems all in one place.

Rio da Prata

Without a doubt, this is the longest snorkeling tour, famous for its variety of fish species and the underwater volcanic resurgence phenomenon that occurs at one point during the tour.

However, this tour requires more physical effort—it lasts nearly three hours, with few breaks for rest, so it’s not recommended for children, seniors, or anyone with physical restrictions or low endurance.

Additionally, this tour is one of the furthest from Bonito, so for travelers with limited time, it’s important to note that this tour will take up an entire day of your itinerary.

Lagoa Misteriosa

The Mysterious Lagoon is the only doline (a collapsed cave) in the region open for tourism. It features two deep blue abysses, each about 8 meters deep. The experience is truly unique and is one of the most famous tours in the region.

The calm waters give you the sensation of not only floating but also flying. However, keep in mind that Lagoa Misteriosa does not operate year-round. It’s only open during the colder months, as during warmer months, algae bloom and the tour is closed.

If Lagoa Misteriosa is on your must-see list, make sure to check with one of our agents for the best times to visit and for all the updated information on its availability.

Cave Tours in Bonito - MS

Bonito is home to four caves for exploration, including one that has recently reopened and also offers the option of floating. Each cave features stunning formations that are thousands of years old, filled with fascinating history and enchantment.

Gruta Lago Azul

One of the most visited and famous tours in Bonito, Gruta Lago Azul is known for its flooded cave with a surreal blue color. Although swimming is not allowed, and visitors can only contemplate its beauty, it remains one of the most sought-after cave tours in the region.

Grutas de São Miguel

Grutas de São Miguel are dry caves for contemplation, featuring various coral formations and limestone nests. Before visiting the caves, you can walk along a suspended bridge through the Cerrado, offering views of the treetops and stops at lookout points for birdwatching. It’s an unforgettable experience, isn’t it? And since it's located near Gruta Lago Azul, it’s possible to visit both caves on the same day, optimizing your time to explore other attractions.

Gruta Catedral

With its unique geological formations, Gruta Catedral offers two experiences in one. Before exploring the dry cave, like Grutas de São Miguel, you’ll visit the city museum, where you can learn more about Bonito’s history and see a collection of ancient objects and stuffed animals found in the region over the years.

Inside the cave, you’ll witness different rock formations, including various stalactites, stalagmites, corals, curtains, columns, and the famous “Torre Pisa”, along with fascinating facts and stories from thousands of years ago.

Gruta do Mimoso

The most recent cave tour in Bonito, Gruta do Mimoso stands out from the others by offering a unique experience: the possibility of both contemplating and floating inside the cave. The beauty of its waters is undeniably incredible. However, as it’s a floating tour inside the cave, there is no visibility of fish or aquatic life. Still, the experience of floating in a flooded cave makes it well worth it.

Waterfall Tours in Bonito - MS

Now that we've covered caves and floating tours, let’s move on to another classic experience in Bonito and the surrounding region: waterfall tours. There are many options in this category, each with its own unique charm. Even though they all feature waterfalls, each one has its own distinctive character and beauty.

Boca da Onça Ecotour

This is a trail and waterfall tour where you’ll find the tallest waterfall in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, the famous Boca da Onça, which also gives the tour its name. The circuit includes eight waterfalls, with some of the most famous stops being Poço da Lontra, Janela do Céu, and Buraco do Macaco. There are also four swimming spots, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

Rio do Peixe

This tour is famous for being home to friendly and sociable blue macaws. It takes place in the riparian forest of Rio Olaria and Rio do Peixe and is divided into two parts.

• The first part includes seven stops for swimming in waterfalls.

• Afterward, visitors return to the main lodge for a delicious lunch featuring traditional dishes from Mato Grosso do Sul.

• In the afternoon, the second part of the tour begins, with an 800-meter walk through the forest leading to three more swimming spots and two waterfalls.

• At the end of the tour, visitors have the chance to interact with the farm’s animals, including the blue macaws, if they happen to be around.

Ceita Corê

This tour features one of the region’s most mysterious landscapes—a submerged cave that has only been explored to a depth of 155 meters. Here, visitors can enjoy floating in the crystal-clear waters of Rio Chapeninha.

Before that, travelers will explore eleven waterfalls, with up to six stops for swimming, all accessible via walkways. Afterward, they can enjoy a delicious wood-fired meal, adding to the rustic charm of the experience, before venturing into the mysteries of the cave.

Cachoeiras Serra da Bodoquena

One of the most famous tours in Bodoquena, this experience offers eight waterfall stops in breathtaking natural pools.

For visitors who prefer a more relaxed experience, there’s also the option to enjoy only the balneário (natural swimming area), which features a large swimming zone and excellent facilities. This makes it a great choice for all types of travelers, whether you're looking for adventure or just a peaceful retreat.

Parque das Cachoeiras & Estância Mimosa

These two nearby farms share the same river, Rio Mimoso, which means they have very similar waterfall circuits. The first three waterfalls differ between the two, but the rest of the experience is quite alike.

• Parque das Cachoeiras features a trail with seven waterfalls, including a natural spring that forms a beautiful setting for photos. It also has the famous heart-shaped deck, with the "Waterfall of Love" in the background—a romantic and Instagram-worthy spot.

• After the tour, visitors can relax in the balneário or the infinity pool, both of which are included in the package.

At Estância Mimosa, the waterfall and trail tour is designed for fun and nature immersion. Small groups, always accompanied by a guide, walk 2.8 km through the forest, observing birds, wildlife, and diverse plant species.

The trail crosses dry streambeds, wooden walkways, and leads to nine waterfalls with different shapes and sizes, including natural pools and a jumping platform. Along the way, there are viewpoints offering stunning panoramas of the Serra da Bodoquena mountain range.

Since these two attractions are so similar, a useful tip is to choose only one of them for your itinerary, allowing you to save time and money. Now that you know the details, you can decide which best suits your preferences. If you need help, consult one of our Bonito Travel agents for more details.

Eco Serrana Park

Located in the heart of Serra da Bodoquena, this tour takes place in a canyon formed by the Rio Salobra—one of the most impressive and recent attractions in the region.

• The tour starts with a trail along the banks of the Rio Salobra, where you’ll see emerald-green waters and small waterfalls, surrounded by a completely preserved forest.

• This tour requires a bit more physical effort, as it involves a 7 km round-trip hike, making it ideal for adventurous travelers.

• However, there’s also the option to enjoy just the balneário, where visitors can experience a small part of this incredible place while relaxing without long hikes.

With these options, this tour caters to different types of travelers, from adventure-seekers to those looking for a peaceful escape.

Adventure Tours in Bonito - MS

By now, you've probably noticed how many beautiful places there are to explore, right?!

But we're not done yet! In addition to floating tours, caves, and waterfalls—which are the most famous and sought-after experiences here—there are also other surreal places that are worth adding to your itinerary, especially for those who love adventure and fun.

Below, we present the top adventure attractions in Bonito - MS.

Rafting at Ecopark Porto da Ilha

One of Bonito's most traditional tours, similar to Boia Cross. This experience is full of excitement and adventure along the city's main river, the Rio Formoso. Visitors complete the route in an inflatable raft with up to 10 people, making it a great activity to enjoy with friends, family, or even to meet new people and make new friends.

Boia Cross at Ecopark Porto da Ilha

As we mentioned earlier, this is also one of Bonito's most traditional tours, offering an adventure with surprising adrenaline. The journey starts off calm and smooth, but as you encounter two waterfalls and a rapid, it turns into a thrilling experience while maintaining maximum safety. Each person rides in their own inflatable tube, making it an ideal activity to encourage everyone to embrace the fun.

Stand-Up Paddle at Ecopark Porto da Ilha

Imagine surfing while admiring the breathtaking beauty of the Rio Formoso, surrounded by lush riparian forest. Participants stand on a paddleboard and complete the route using a paddle, which requires a bit more physical effort. At the end of the journey, there's a swimming stop, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the river's refreshing and invigorating waters.

All of these tours can be booked separately—choosing just one or two—but there's also a combo option, as they are all within the same Ecopark Porto da Ilha complex. You can experience all three in a single day to maximize your adventure. If you opt for all three activities, it will take up an entire day of your itinerary, making it an excellent option for those looking to optimize their time and do more activities.

At Porto da Ilha, additional experiences can be purchased on-site or through us, such as Bike Boat, Electric Boat, or the Duck Tour—which is essentially an inflatable kayak for two people, navigating three stunning rapids alongside your companion.

Rappelling at Boca da Onça

Imagine yourself, secured by a harness, 90 meters high, enjoying a privileged view of the Serra da Bodoquena—definitely an unforgettable adventure.

In addition to the rappelling experience, you'll also do the regular trail, which includes eight waterfalls, among them Boca da Onça, the tallest waterfall in the state, and four swimming stops. Rappelling requires some basic skills, but the tour guides provide instructions before starting the descent, ensuring a safe and smooth experience. All equipment is provided, so you only need to focus on embracing the adventure—an absolute must-do experience.

Abismo Anhumas – Contemplation

This is one of the most sought-after tours, and we frequently get asked: "Is it necessary to rappel down just to contemplate the cave?"

Abismo Anhumas offers four options: Contemplation, Floating, Baptism Dive, and Advanced Diving. Regardless of which you choose, you must descend via an electric rappel system, as the experience takes place at the bottom of the cave.

The descent is smooth and requires no physical effort. You simply relax and take in the breathtaking view of the cave and its crystal-clear waters. This option is ideal for those who want to connect with nature without entering the water. Despite the adrenaline from the descent, travelers will experience unforgettable moments in a tranquil environment, including a boat tour across the vast underground lake, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Abismo Anhumas – Floating

Floating above the surreal waters of Abismo Anhumas feels like levitating over a submerged forest of limestone cones. The visibility can reach an incredible 60 meters, while the total depth extends to 80 meters.

Imagine being able to see 60 meters below you, witnessing formations sculpted over thousands of years. Before diving in, you'll learn about the cave’s history and rock formations—an experience that truly makes you appreciate the grandeur of nature.

Abismo Anhumas – Baptism Dive

No certification is required, making this a popular choice for travelers who want to experience scuba diving with a tank but do not have a professional diving license. The minimum age is 12 years old, and after a short theoretical and practical lesson in the cave, participants can dive up to 8 meters.

If floating and admiring the depths from a distance is already incredible, imagine diving in! This experience offers unique visuals of the abyss, creating an indescribable adventure that only Abismo Anhumas can provide.

Abismo Anhumas – Advanced Dive

For experienced and certified divers, Abismo Anhumas offers an advanced diving option that allows descents of up to 18 meters. To participate, you must have an Open Water certification or higher.

This individual activity is accompanied by a professional diving guide, and during the dive, you’ll come face-to-face with the famous giant limestone cones. If you meet the requirements, don’t miss the chance to explore this spectacular underwater world.

Mysterious Lagoon – Floating

One of Bonito’s most enigmatic tours, floating in the Mysterious Lagoon is a breathtaking experience. The water is so calm and clear that it feels like you're floating in mid-air—a truly mesmerizing sight.

Mysterious Lagoon – Scuba Diving

Similar to Abismo Anhumas, this lagoon offers baptism dives for those without certification, allowing descents of up to 8 meters. The difference is that this takes place in a doline, the only one in the region open for tourism.

However, due to natural factors, the lagoon is subject to seasonal closures. During warmer months, algae proliferation can turn the water completely green, significantly reducing visibility. Therefore, the best time to visit is between June and August, when the lagoon displays its stunning blue tones. For updated conditions, consult one of our Bonito Travel agents.

Recanto do Peão Horseback Riding

This tour embodies the essence of Mato Grosso do Sul, offering an authentic Pantanal-style experience in close contact with nature. Ideal for travelers looking to disconnect from the outside world, enjoy a relaxing horseback ride, and savor a traditional arroz carreteiro, a regional delicacy.

Quad Bike Adventure – Serra da Bodoquena

This thrilling quad bike adventure takes place in the Serra da Bodoquena. You can combine this activity with the Serra da Bodoquena Waterfalls tour.

The 8 km trail passes through valleys, mud tracks, and dense forests, making it an exciting adventure for both beginners and experienced riders.