Central-West
MS
Mato Grosso do Sul
Gateway to the Pantanal wetlands
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Mato Grosso do Sul is the primary gateway to the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland and one of the best places on Earth for wildlife spotting — jaguars, capybaras, giant otters and hundreds of bird species. Bonito, in the southern highlands, draws ecotourists for its crystal-clear rivers, cave diving and snorkeling with schools of fish in spring-fed pools.
Capital
Campo Grande
Region
Central-West
Estado
MS
Top Highlights
- 1Pantanal jaguar safaris — best wildlife spotting in the Americas, July to October
- 2Bonito river snorkeling — crystal-clear spring-fed rivers teeming with schools of fish
- 3Buraco das Araras — one of Brazil's largest natural sinkholes, home to scarlet macaws
- 4Rio da Prata — transparent spring-fed river dive alongside stingrays and giant dourado fish
Best Time to Visit
July to October — low water season when wildlife concentrates around rivers and jaguars are most visible.
Traveller's Tip
Bonito's ecotourism sites have strictly enforced daily visitor limits — book activities well in advance, especially in July and August.
