Self-drive Bonito and South Pantanal

Upon landing at Campo Grande airport, you will collect the rental car from the Localiza counter and make your way to the Deville Campo Grande. Nestled in the heart of the city, this hotel offers a delightful blend of luxury and convenience, providing the perfect base for our road trip adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you might prefer to head straight for Bonito from Campo Grande airport.

Journey time: approx. 30 minutes (15km)

The journey from Campo Grande to the village of Bonito takes approximately 4 to 5 hours on well-maintained roads, offering a scenic route for exploration. This drive presents lots of opportunities for stops along the way, allowing travellers to savour the lush landscapes of Mato Grosso do Sul. Bonito, hailed as Brazil's eco-tourism capital, unfolds against a backdrop of limestone plateaux and valleys, providing an array of outdoor activities. The landscape features crystal-clear streams and deep lagoons, inhabited by a multitude of vibrant fish, while the riverbank boasts lush green vegetation. Bonito and its surroundings not only showcase breathtaking scenery but also offer diverse experiences for visitors to the area. Overnight at the charming Pousada Olha d’Agua, a short distance from the heart of Bonito.

Journey time: approx. 4-5h (310km)

Start your extraordinary day in Bonito with a visit to the Rio da Prata and its captivating surroundings. Immerse yourself in the abundance of wildlife, explore impossibly clear lagoons, and revel in the lush vegetation along the riverbanks—ensuring an all-around adventure. Dive into the crystalline waters of Olho d’Água, a serene tributary of the Rio de la Prata, for a remarkable snorkelling experience, unrivalled in Brazil. The river acts as a living aquarium, showcasing an abundance of multi-coloured fish species and underwater plants, creating a mesmerising visual spectacle.

Following a delightful lunch on the shores of a nearby lagoon, the next destination is the ancient sinkhole, Buraco das Araras. Plunging 124 metres, this remarkable spectacle is a sanctuary for Macaws and tropical birds, finding refuge in the safety of the giant cave walls.

Journey time from Bonito to Rio da Prata: approx. 1 h (50 km)

Journey time from Rio da Prata to Buraco das Araras: approx. 15 min. (10 km)

Journey time from Buraco das Araras to Bonito: approx. 1 h (55 km)

On another scenic journey this morning, head north towards the Pantanal which is roughly a 3-hour drive along well-paved roads meandering through enchanting forests, picturesque meadows, and across the Rio Miranda. A notable detour awaits at the Boca da Onça Private Reserve, featuring hiking trails winding through emerald forests and showcasing no less than 14 waterfalls, with the tallest plummeting an impressive 156 metres. While a visit here requires 4-5 hours, this option must be decided upon the day before to secure a ticket.

Upon reaching the banks of the Rio Salobra, discover your Pantanal haven at Refúgio da Ilha. This intimate lodge, a quintessential family-run farmhouse, is dedicated to eco-tourism. Arriving before noon grants you a warm welcome with a delicious local lunch—perfect fuel for participating in the lodge’s afternoon activity, offering a first taste of the incredible biodiversity in the immediate surroundings. As the day winds down, savour a delightful dinner and unwind in the homely atmosphere, sharing stories with fellow travellers and the welcoming host family.

Journey time: approx. 3h (160 km)

As part of your stay at Refúgio da Ilha, their team of specialist guides offer two daily safari style excursions, providing you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Pantanal. Largely untouched until the 20th century due to its inaccessible location and geology, the Pantanal now stands as a pristine example of natural preservation and hosts over 700 bird species, 80 mammals, 50 reptiles, 300 fish types, and countless plant varieties. An absolute paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, ecologists, and tourists alike.

Your adventures at Refúgio da Ilha include boat trips along Rio Salobra and Miranda, horse-back rides, walking trails, birding, 4 x 4 off-road adventures, and canoeing.

Today promises yet another full day of safari style wildlife discoveries in this eco-sanctuary. For those opting to venture onto the waterways, keep an eye out for the colonies of giant otters that call this place home.

Alternatively, embark on a leisurely horseback ride to discover all that the Pantanal has to offer. It's a fantastic way to unearth the diverse flora and fauna of areas that may be too challenging or remote to explore on foot. Whether on water or horseback, the Pantanal's natural wonders await your exploration.

As your time in the Pantanal comes to an end, embark on the final drive back towards Campo Grande. The return leg offers an entirely different perspective, allowing you to soak up beautiful new wetland views along the way. Anticipate a 4-hour journey, plus the time needed to return the rental car to the airport before any onward flight. Reflect on the captivating experiences of the Pantanal, cherishing the memories as you traverse the scenic landscapes one last time.

Journey time: approx. 4 hours (320km)