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Bonito runs on a voucher system: every attraction is on private land and must be booked through a licensed agency, usually a day ahead. This guide covers flights, getting around, money, safety and the practical questions visitors ask most, as one chapter of the complete Bonito travel guide.
Bonito Travel Tips: Airports and Getting There
Bonito Regional Airport (BYO) is 13 km from town and receives Azul flights from Campinas (VCP) and São Paulo Congonhas (CGH). Gol also serves the route seasonally. The alternative is Campo Grande International Airport (CGR), 300 km away, a 4.5-hour drive or bus ride. Most visitors flying in from abroad connect through São Paulo, and the best time to visit Bonito page explains the best windows to arrive.
Bonito Travel Tips: Getting Around
Rent a car if you want flexibility, since attractions are spread across 7 to 56 km of rural roads. Tour packages normally include round-trip transport from your hotel, so a car is optional. The things to do in Bonito list notes the distance of each attraction from town.
Bonito Travel Tips: Money, Vouchers and Costs
Cards are accepted at hotels and most agencies, but some fazendas and smaller tours prefer cash, and ATMs are concentrated in the Centro. Budget roughly R$ 3,500 for a 5-day solo trip and R$ 15,000 for a couple in comfort with premium floats. Hotel prices by zone are in the where to stay in Bonito guide.
Bonito Travel Tips: Safety and Practical Answers
Is Bonito safe?
Yes. Violent crime is rare and the main risks are sun, heat and slipping on wet cave steps. Keep valuables in your hotel and carry only what you need on tours. The Bonito neighborhoods guide notes which areas are busiest.
Can I drink the tap water?
Tap water is treated and generally safe, but most visitors drink bottled water to be safe. Carry a refillable bottle on tours.
Do I need biodegradable sunscreen and repellent?
Yes. Regular sunscreen is banned on river floats to protect the springs, so buy biodegradable sunscreen and repellent in Bonito or bring reef-safe products. Wetsuits and lockers are provided on the floats. Water clarity by season is covered in the Bonito weather by month page.
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
It helps. Agencies and larger hotels have some English, but many fazenda guides speak only Portuguese, so book through an agency that can confirm an English-speaking guide if you need one.
Suggested Hotels in Bonito
These three cover the luxury, mid-range and budget ends of the Centro and resort zones. Hotels fill up for the July festival, so check the Bonito events and festivals dates before booking.
Zagaia Eco Resort
A 5-star resort in a large park 4 km from town with three pools, two restaurants, tennis courts and mini-golf. Best for families who want a self-contained resort. Check rates and availability
Hotel Pirá Miúna
A downtown hotel near the main restaurants and shops, with an outdoor pool, hot tub and a 9.5 location score. Best for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere. Check rates and availability
Pousada Remanso
A central pousada with a pool, hydromassage, hammock gardens and a 24-hour front desk. Best for budget travelers who want to be steps from the agencies. Check rates and availability
