By Lindenberg Junior
Translation: Mallory Adragna
Gruta do Lago Azul or Blue Lake Cave in Bonito
With a name as evocative as Bonito (beauty), the destination lives up to its allure, offering landscapes that are nothing short of extraordinary. A small city in the Brazil’s Central-West region, it is regarded as one of the most captivating destinations in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, and across Brazil. The city as founded in 1948, have a population of only 22,190 (2020), and an elevation of 1,033′. This Brazilian hot spot draws a wide range of visitors due to the outstanding diving opportunities, from families in search of nature’s beauty to adventure lovers.
Bonito is celebrated both nationally and internationally for its outstanding tourist attractions, having been honored 16 times as the Best Ecotourism Destination in the prestigious Best of Travel and Tourism Awards. Nestled just south of the Pantanal, this municipality exemplifies environmental stewardship, maintaining a delicate balance between tourism and the preservation of its rich natural ecosystems. Its dedication to sustainable practices has made it a global model for conservation-driven travel.
One of the highlights of Bonito’s cultural scene is the Festival de Inverno (Winter Festival), an annual event that showcases a rich blend of arts, music, and culture. The festival brings together artists from across Brazil, featuring live performances, exhibitions, theater, and film screenings. It’s a vibrant celebration that not only promotes the local culture but also reflects the region’s deep connection to nature and its traditions. This event further solidifies Bonito as a cultural hub in addition to its ecotourism fame.
CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS
The municipality is distinguished by its pristine, crystal-clear rivers, which captivate both diving enthusiasts and nature lovers eager to experience the vibrant aquatic biodiversity firsthand. Among the most popular activities is bathing in the Sucuri River, where the waters shimmer with striking blue hues, providing a transparent window into an underwater world teeming with life. Visitors have the rare opportunity to swim alongside native fish species like the dourado and piraputanga, making each dive a unique encounter with the region’s wildlife.
For those seeking even more breathtaking views, a scenic trail, stretching nearly 1 mile (two kilometers) along wooden walkways, leads to the awe-inspiring Blue Spring. Here, the river’s radiant turquoise waters, framed by verdant green plants, create a mesmerizing landscape. The contrast between the clear blue depths and the lush surroundings forms a natural masterpiece, offering tourists a tranquil and immersive experience that is both visually and spiritually uplifting. This harmony of color and nature is a testament to the untouched beauty that
CAVE ADVENTURES
Nature’s splendor is on full display in the Gruta do Lago Azul, a ten-million-year-old cavern where sunlight creates an almost surreal blue hue in the water. Another captivating site, Abismo Anhumas, features a vast cavern adorned with stalactites, offering adventurous visitors the chance to rappel into an underground lake. Additionally, the Buraco das Araras, an ochre-colored sinkhole, serves as a haven for various bird species, particularly vibrant scarlet macaws. This remarkable blend of geological wonders and diverse wildlife makes Bonito a true natural paradise.
characterizes the region.
Abismo Anhumas. Photo: Caio Vilela
WHEN TO VISIT?
Bonito’s diverse attractions and natural beauty make it a year-round destination for visitors. However, weather conditions can greatly influence the experience, underscoring the importance of selecting the optimal time for your visit. The rainy season, which extends from December to March, can see temperatures reach up 95˚F (35°C). This period enhances the region’s lush greenery and results in fuller waterfalls, although fish populations in the rivers may be lower due to breeding activities. A highlight during this time is the phenomenon from mid-December to early February, when sunlight illuminates the Gruta do Lago Azul, adding to its captivating allure.
Conversely, the dry season spans from May to August, characterized by clearer rivers and a greater abundance of fish. However, temperatures can drop in the evenings, particularly during winter, so it is advisable to prepare for both warm days and cooler nights by packing appropriate clothing layers. Bonito is pure adrenaline, and a great place to relax! You can enjoy waterfalls, natural pools and rowing boat rides in several “balneários” or resort areas. Bonito is, without a doubt, a fascinating place in the center-west of Brazil.
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