Bonito, Brazil - Travel Guide

Bonito is a world-renowned ecotourism destination, famous for its crystal-clear rivers, underwater caves, and vibrant aquatic life. It offers incredible opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring unique natural wonders in a pristine environment. It's ideal for nature lovers and adventurers seeking immersive eco-experiences.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay4 days

Budget$50/day

Mid-range$100/day

Luxury$500/day

Known For

Mato Grosso do SulPantanalSerra da BodoquenaAquaEcotourism

🇧🇷 Country Information: Brazil

CapitalBrasilia

CurrencyBrazilian real (R$)

Language Portuguese , English, Spanish, Indigenous languages

Phone Code+55

Electricity127/220V (Type C, N)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is common in restaurants and bars (10% service charge is often included, but extra tipping for excellent service is appreciated)
Taxis: Round up the fare or tip a small amount
Hotel staff: A small tip for porters and housekeepers is customary
Tour guides: Tipping is appreciated for good service

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available, especially in major cities
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger towns, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas
It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in remote areas
There is no official black market for cash, but street vendors may offer slightly better exchange rates for foreign currency

Cultural Norms

Brazilians are generally warm and friendly, and physical touch is common (e
g
, hugs, kisses on the cheek)
Punctuality is more relaxed compared to some Western cultures, especially for social gatherings
Dress casually but neatly in most situations; beachwear is for the beach only
Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers unless they initiate the conversation
When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift for the host

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Brazil has a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in major cities. Same-sex marriage is legal, and there are constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

The legal drinking age is 18
Public consumption of alcohol is generally permitted
Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts of illicit drugs can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment

Special Laws

It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing unless you are a member of the armed forces
Be aware of local protests or demonstrations, which can occur frequently
Photography of military installations, police, or protests is generally prohibited

Common Phrases

NoNão (NOWNG)

YesSim (SING)

HelloOlá (oh-LAH)

PleasePor favor (poor fah-VOR)

Thank youObrigado/Obrigada (oh-bree-GAH-doo/oh-bree-GAH-dah)

Good morningBom dia (bohng DEE-ah)

Good afternoonBoa tarde (BOH-ah TAR-jee)

Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpa (kohn lee-SEN-sah/dee-SKOOL-pah)

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Rainy season: Dec
Mar (can have heavy rains leading to floods)

Getting There

Fly into Campo Grande (CGR), then take a 4
hour bus or transfer to Bonito (approx
$50
100)
Alternatively, fly directly to Bonito (BYO) via smaller regional flights, but these are less frequent and more expensive

Getting Around

Taxis and private transfers are the main local transportation
No ride
sharing apps like Uber or 99 are widely available within Bonito itself due to its small size and focus on ecotourism, but they might be available in Campo Grande
Bicycle rentals are common for short distances

Health & Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio) are recommended
Yellow Fever vaccine is required for entry into Brazil for travelers coming from certain countries, and often recommended for travel to Bonito due to its rural location (check current requirements)
Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are also recommended
Consult with a doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis, as some areas in Brazil are malarious (though Bonito itself is generally considered low risk, it's near regions that might be)
Probiotics can be helpful for digestive health

Staying Connected

eSIMs are available in Brazil
Major networks include Vivo, Claro, and TIM
Airalo, Nomad, and other global eSIM providers generally work well in Brazil, offering various data plans

Local Cuisine

Pacu na Brasa regional_speciality

A popular regional fish from the local rivers, grilled over charcoal (*na brasa*). This preparation highlights the fresh flavors of the fish, often se

Traíra sem Espinha (Spineless Traíra) must_try

This local river fish is a specialty in Bonito, uniquely prepared to remove the numerous small bones, making it easy and enjoyable to eat. It is often

Pastel Bonito street_food

A delicious, deep-fried pastry pocket with various savory or sweet fillings, a staple of Brazilian street food. The name suggests a local emphasis on

Piraputanga regional_speciality

A fish considered a symbol of Bonito, often served baked or grilled. Its unique taste and local significance make it a distinctive dish in the regiona

Caipirinha alcohol

Brazil's national cocktail, made with *cachaça* (sugar cane hard liquor), sugar, and lime. While popular nationwide, it's a refreshing beverage enjoye

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Ecotourism Tours and Activities (e.g., Rio da Prata, Gruta do Lago Azul) tour_or_activity

Book 2 weeks to 2 months in advance

Tickets for tours cannot be sold at the entrance and must be purchased through local agencies; popular attractions have limited daily capacity and sell out quickly, especially during high season.

Fun Facts

1. Bonito is the first ecotourism destination in the world to be awarded the Carbon Neutral certificate, a title it earned in 2023 from the Green Initiative.
2. The region's rivers have exceptional clarity, which is due to a natural filtration system from a limestone base, allowing visibility up to 50 meters underwater.
3. The town sits atop a limestone plateau that has been carved by water over thousands of years, resulting in a landscape of underground rivers, dramatic caves, and natural springs.
4. Bonito's unique location, situated between the Pantanal wetlands and the Cerrado savanna, means it hosts an impressive and diverse mix of species like capybaras, giant otters, and tapirs.

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