Float in the waters of Bonito and experience one of the most sustainable activities in the world’s first Carbon Neutral ecotourism destination.
Floating in the Olho d’Água and Prata Rivers is an activity that combines adventure, relaxation, and an immersion into the lush nature of the Bonito region.
Bonito is one of Brazil’s top ecotourism destinations and the first in the world to receive the Carbon Neutral certificate, awarded in 2023 by the Green Initiative. This certification recognizes the commitment and actions taken to absorb all the carbon emitted from activities, offsetting the environmental impact. And it doesn’t stop there! Bonito was also awarded the international “Safe Travels” seal, created by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The region is perfect for those who want to refresh their soul in crystal-clear waters that spring from sources, flow through waterfalls, and hide ancient mysteries inside caves. One of the most unforgettable experiences Bonito can offer is floating in the Olho d’Água and Prata rivers. The biodiversity is exceptional, providing unique moments of connection with nature!
EXUBERANT SCENERY
This is one of the longest floating experiences in the region, covering 2.2 kilometers through two different river courses. The first 1,600 meters of the float are along the spring of the Olho d’Água River, with its crystal-clear waters and spectacular visibility. The last 600 meters are through the lush turquoise waters of the Prata River.
The tour begins with a walk through the forest surrounding the rivers. Along the way, nature offers unique moments of contemplation. Among the centuries-old trees, orchids, and bromeliads, various bird species enhance the surroundings with their majestic flights.
You will also have the opportunity to see some mammals like coatis, capuchin monkeys, peccaries, agoutis, anteaters, and collared peccaries. It’s a truly rich walk!
FLOATING ROUTE
Upon reaching the spring of the Olho d’Água River, the stunning landscape of the vast natural pool of crystal-clear waters captivates at first sight. This is where the underwater adventure begins! Equipped with a mask, snorkel, neoprene suit, water shoes, and life jacket, you enter the water to explore the river’s wonders.
The current is gentle, smoothly guiding you along the river’s course. Meanwhile, the underwater world unveils countless surprises. The visibility underwater is perfect, allowing you to admire dozens of fish species, in various colors and sizes, in their natural habitat. You’ll pass schools of piraputangas, dourados, curimbatás, piaus, matogrossinhos, and other fish species commonly found in the Cerrado biome. The beautiful aquatic plants complete this vast underwater landscape.
It’s 1,600 meters until you reach the confluence of the Olho d’Água and Prata rivers. From there, the float continues along the Prata River for another 600 meters. The water changes color, shifting from clear to a magnificent turquoise blue. The visibility in the Prata River is slightly lower, but the experience remains magical. The fauna and flora are rich, revealing scenes that will stay in your memory forever!
TIME TO RELAX
After about 2 hours in the water, floating through paradise-like scenery, it’s time to relax. Since the rivers are located within a farm, you’ll find good infrastructure to spend the rest of the day. It starts with a delicious lunch featuring typical dishes from Mato Grosso do Sul, served on a wood-fired stove. There’s arroz carreteiro, tilapia, roasted chicken, beef, sopa paraguaia, pasta, carioca beans, farofa, banana moqueca, and much more. For dessert, you can’t miss the cheese and dulce de leche, made right there on the farm. But there are other options, like the dulce de leche flan, which is so good it’ll make you want to pray!
To relax after this adventure and delicious meal, how about a rest in the farm’s hammocks? While you rest your body, you can clear your mind listening to the sounds of nature. You’ll end the day feeling completely rejuvenated!
TIP: If you still have energy, indulge in a horseback ride through the farm’s fields and enjoy the stunning sunset that the Cerrado offers!
HIGHLIGHTS
- Climate Positive Certification – Green Initiative
- International ‘Safe Travels’ Seal – World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
- TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award – Best of the Best 2024
- Gold Category Tourism Certification – Green Destinations
Vitrine Experience -Visit Brasil: Floating in the crystal-clear waters of the Olho d’Água and Prata Rivers
HOW TO GET THERE
Campo Grande Airport or Bonito Regional Airport
Bus: Cruzeiro do Sul bus company operates the Campo Grande-Bonito route
Car: Coming from Campo Grande via BR-262 (toward Aquidauana, until Anastácio) and MS-345 (to Bonito).
Rio da Prata Ecological Corner
Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata is the destination to experience all of these activities. The full floating tour lasts about 4 hours, including travel time, walking, and diving. So, it’s best to reserve an entire day to enjoy all the activities available there. To learn more about Recanto and its experiences, visit riodaprata.eco.br/.