About fifty kilometers from Bonito and thirty from Jardim, Buraco das Araras forms a circular depression 500 meters in diameter and more than 100 meters deep. This limestone sinkhole, the largest in South America, today shelters around sixty pairs of red and green macaws that lent their name to the site. The visit, guided by an accredited guide, combines birdwatching, remarkable geology, and a glimpse into a turbulent local past.

Why visit Buraco das Araras

The site brings together three interests rarely found on a single attraction. First, a geological formation of impressive scale: a nearly perfect circular chasm carved by limestone dissolution, classified as the continent's largest sinkhole. Then visible and identifiable fauna from two observation platforms, with red and green macaws flying freely within the crater. Finally, a rich history, from acquisition by the Sampaio family to conversion into a private reserve, transforming the visit into an embodied narrative rather than a simple photo stop.

The sanctuary spans 29 hectares. It forms part of the ecological mosaic of Mato Grosso do Sul, close to Rio da Prata ecological reserve and the southern gateway to the Pantanal.

Site history

The sinkhole formed through progressive dissolution of limestone rock underground, a geological process spanning millennia. Its existence is documented only from 1912, despite its spectacular character.

The chasm's past is dark. It long served as a public dump for local inhabitants. Cattle thieves and political prisoners were thrown or executed into it. Later, military personnel used it as a shooting range, targeting the macaws. Environmental awareness only began to emerge during the twentieth century.

The turning point came when Modesto Sampaio purchased an agricultural property without realizing the macaws' hole was part of it. His family made protecting the site a long-term project. In 2007, Buraco das Araras was officially declared a private reserve, linked to Rio da Prata ecological reserve. Tourism revenues have since surpassed those of the original agricultural activity.

What to see on site

Access is via a marked 900-meter trail, flat and accessible, passing through dry tropical vegetation. The path leads to two observation platforms facing each other, positioned on opposite sides of the chasm.

The reserve currently shelters about sixty pairs of red and green macaws (Ara chloropterus), the site's flagship species. The crater serves as their nesting area within limestone cliffs. Macaws are particularly active in the morning; they tend to return to their roost after 3:30 PM, making late morning and early afternoon ideal for observing flights from the second platform.

Other species frequent the sanctuary:

• Armadillos
• Broad-snouted caimans
• Toucans
• Anteaters

For photographers, a telephoto lens is useful: the chasm's depth keeps birds away from the edges.

When to go

July to October marks the local dry season and offers optimal conditions: passable trails, clear skies, ideal visibility in the crater. Macaw activity is also more consistent. The rainy months (December to March) remain visitable but may complicate access and observation.

Favor the morning, from opening until midday, to coincide with peak bird activity.

Practical information

Visits are mandatory accompanied by an accredited reserve guide. No independent visits are permitted, a measure related to both safety (proximity to the chasm) and wildlife protection. Plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours on site, including the trail.

Bring closed-toe shoes, water, sun protection, and a hat. Entrance fees remain modest and include guidance. Cash payments are often preferred on site.

How to get there

Buraco das Araras is located about 30 km from Jardim and 50 km from Bonito, bordering highway MS-382. Car rental or private taxi remains the most practical option: there is no regular public transport serving the reserve entrance.

From Bonito, allow about one hour's drive. From Campo Grande, capital of Mato Grosso do Sul State, the distance is around 300 km, either a half-day journey or an internal flight to Bonito followed by road transfer. Many Bonito operators offer combined visits to other regional sites.

Several parking areas are available at the reserve entrance.

Nearby attractions

Buraco das Araras combines well with other natural sites in Mato Grosso do Sul:

• Rio da Prata, for floating in crystal-clear waters amid fish
• Sucuri River, another renowned river snorkeling site in the Bonito region
• Gruta do Lago Azul, cave with an intense blue underground lake
• Lago Misterioso, a karstic lagoon from the same geological province

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Buraco das Araras naturally integrates into an itinerary in Mato Grosso do Sul, between Bonito, Jardim, and the southern Pantanal. To build a complete circuit in Brésil, consult our journeys in Brésil.