Rio do Peixe refers, in the Bonito region (Mato Grosso do Sul), to a nature circuit developed by Fazenda Água Viva. Waterfalls, swimming points and marked trails make it one of the classic aquatic circuits of this ecotourism destination in central-western Brésil.

Why visit Rio do Peixe

The site combines the elements that have made Bonito's reputation: crystal-clear waters filtered by the limestone soils of Serra da Bodoquena, dense cerrado vegetation and waterfalls accessible on foot. Unlike some of the region's busier circuits, Rio do Peixe remains moderately visited, making it an interesting option for families and travelers seeking a more relaxed pace.

The circuit is managed by Fazenda Água Viva, a private estate that oversees access and activities. The visit blends light hiking, swimming and recreational activities over a half-day to full day.

What to see and do

The circuit revolves around 2,000 meters of marked trails through riparian forest, dotted with nine swimming points and up to eleven waterfalls. Two of them draw visitors' attention:

• Cachoeira da Grutinha, a waterfall framed by a small rocky formation overhanging the water.
• Poço do Arco-íris, a pool renowned for the play of light that forms when sunlight passes through the mist.

The trail is accessible to walkers without special fitness requirements, with regular stops at swimming points. To round out the day, the farm offers a zip line over the river, an aquatic trampoline and hammocks set along the waterside. Lunch, included in most packages, is served at the estate's restaurant and showcases local Mato Grosso do Sul cuisine (grilled meats, slow-cooked dishes, homemade sides).

Practical information

The circuit must be completed with a guide from the farm, in keeping with Bonito's tourism regulations which require supervised access to most natural attractions. On-site facilities include changing rooms, parking, a restaurant and Wi-Fi at reception.

Plan a full day to enjoy the site without rushing. Rates vary by season and age; they should be confirmed with the operator or your travel agency at the time of booking, as they change each year. Bring swimwear, towel, closed-toe shoes suitable for wet ground, sunscreen and some cash for extras.

When to go

Bonito and its region experience a humid subtropical climate (Cfa according to Köppen-Geiger), with an average annual temperature of around 20.9°C. The southern summer (December to March) is hotter and significantly more rainy: heavy rainfall can cloud the waters and limit visibility in the pools.

The recommended period extends from April to November, during the dry season, when rivers regain their transparency and trails are easily passable. The months of May to August offer milder temperatures, pleasant for hiking but sometimes cool for swimming at the start and end of the day.

How to get there

Fazenda Água Viva is located approximately 36 km from Bonito, in the direction of Bodoquena via the MS-178 road. The final stretch uses an unpaved track leading to the circuit's headquarters. Two main options:

• Car rental from Bonito, arranging a vehicle suited to the unpaved road, especially after rain.
• Private transfer, notably via Bonitour, a local operator offering shuttle service from Bonito accommodations.

Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for travel depending on road conditions.

Nearby attractions

Rio do Peixe pairs easily with other natural sites in the Bonito region:

• Estância Mimosa, another highly popular waterfall circuit.
• Buraco das Araras, a sinkhole inhabited by scarlet macaws.
• Poço Encantado, a pool renowned for its deep waters.

Looking to incorporate Rio do Peixe into a wider circuit combining Pantanal, Bonito and the coast? Discover our customized Brésil trips.