Bonito is located in the southwest of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, in the heart of the continent. Until 20 years ago, an unknown hamlet, Bonito is now one of the flagship projects of ecotourism. Since the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Rio de Janeiro in 1991, various natural conservation measures have been launched: the payment of natural limestone caves and crystal-clear rivers that form hundreds of magnificent waterfalls that characterize the region at the foot of the Serra da Bodoquena (altitude 400-650 m). For all excursions, you must be registered, observe the fixed timetables and be accompanied by a guide. The number of visitors is limited in the interest of nature conservation. Fishing and motorboats are prohibited throughout the region. The local pensions (Pousadas and Fazendas) regularly organize small music and dance performances. If you wish, you can enjoy a Tereré, the regional specialty – a green sailor served with ice water. Equipment (eg Neoprene suit and diving goggles) is provided by the organizer and is in good hygienic condition.
Climate and travel time:
There is a tropical climate with more moderate temperatures in higher altitudes. From November to February, it rains more often, which affects the excursions of course. February, March and April generally fall in the rainy season. The winter, however (from June to September), is generally dry and particularly suitable for diving activities. The water is then extremely clear and the view is excellent. However, temperatures can drop to a few degrees above zero! By the end of the year, the water level has fallen so far that various excursions lose their charm
09:30 – “Rio da Prata” (silver river)
Snorkeling begins at the origin of the Olho d’Água river; Then we walk through the jungle and look at birds and other wild animals. At the end of the hike, you can “float” in a huge natural aquarium and very quiet translucent water and watch the colorful vegetation and animal world underwater. Lunch included.
16:40 – Buraco das Araras
Walk along a path around the largest South American depression: 124 meters deep, 500 meters in diameter. You will discover a panoramic view of the lagoon inside, where caimans and parrots live, as well as brightly colored spiders that create their nests.
08:20 – “Gruta do Lago Azul” (Blue Lake Cave)
After a descent of 100 meters, you reach a lake of deep blue water whose depth is estimated at 90 meters, surrounded by stalactites and stalactites. In 1992, a Franco-Brazilian expedition of divers into this national monument, stone axes and ceramic vases, as well as a series of Pleistocene mammals fossils such as saber-toothed bombs and giant bombs. Two unique modern life forms have been discovered in the cave: a blind crab and a type of worm.
15.30 – light rafting on the Formoso River
The eight-kilometer journey to the “pastoral islands” is a tremendous experience. While traveling in the rubber boat (capacity up to 14 people), you cross five waterfalls. Then you can swim in one of the clearest rivers in the world.
Accommodation Unterkunft Hébergement |
Price per person in USD Preis pro Person in USD Prix par personne en USD |
Validity Gültigkeit Validité |
Olho D’ Agua Lodge *** |
on request sur demande |
|
Pousada Surucuá *** |
on request sur demande |
|
Hotel Wetiga **** |
on request sur demande |
|
Zagaia Eco Resort **** |
on request sur demande |
Price based on 2 persons: Another number of people, route guidance and residence time on request
Exceptions: separate prices for Christmas, New Year, Carnival, Easter and local holidays
Departure: Daily
Included:
• Accommodation in a double room including breakfast and all taxes
• English speaking reception at Campo Grande Airport and English speaking guide for all excursions
• Private transfers by Portuguese speaking driver (English possible with surcharge)
• All entrance fees
• All meals mentioned in the program
• All taxes and service charges
Not included:
• Personal expenses such as drinks, etc.
• Gratuities (optional for guides, drivers, etc.)
• Travel insurance (eg, luggage, cancellation, return extra)
• Flights
To bring:
Clothes:
• T-shirts
• Bermuda
• Jeans
• Long-sleeved shirts (light fabric)
• Lightweight pullover
• Rain protection
• Sports socks
Footwear:
• Sneakers
• Light hiking or trekking shoes
• Beach sandals
Useful items:
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars
• Flashlight
• Military knife
• Headgear
• Sunscreen (at least factor 30, you are very close to the equator!)
• Photo and video camera
• Mosquito repellent
• Swimwear
Subject to price and program changes