Aquário Natural Snorkelling
Aquário Natural is one of Bonito's top snorkelling attractions. Like Rio da Prata, you can swim above the springs where water percolates up from underground. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the light shimmers on the spring-fed pool. It is only 8 km from the centre of Bonito. While shared and private transportation are available, it is a great choice for those who want to rent a bike and explore a little on their own. Rio da Prata and nascentes do Rio Sucuri are authentic working farms adapted for tourism, while Aquário Natural, nestled in a forest, is purpose-built for tourism, and its visitor centre has a more architectural, resort-like ambience complete with a restaurant and a bar.
The visitor centre provides all necessary snorkelling gear included in the price, so you don't need to bring your own. Instead of a river deck, the orientation session with a specialised local guide takes place in the pool. If you've never tried snorkelling, Aquário Natural is a great place to start. Even if you can't swim, you can still participate, as the neoprene wetsuit and life jacket keep you afloat effortlessly. Afterwards, the group follows a 700-metre trail through the forest to reach the Baía Bonito River headwaters.
Snorkelling begins in a stunning, spring-fed pool with crystal-clear water. Take in the beauty of the Baía Bonita spring before starting the 900-metre snorkelling adventure, which takes you past lush vegetation and a variety of fish. Although it's significantly shorter than Rio da Prata or Nascentes do Sucuri, you spend about 40 minutes floating down the river. Due to the gentle current, the float times are similar. If you'd rather not spend the entire time in the water, you can board the support boat that accompanies the group throughout the excursion.
The snorkelling ends at the confluence of the Baía Bonita and Formoso rivers, where you can enjoy a zipline and a swimming deck on the Formoso River. The activity is open to children aged five and older, provided they can use a snorkel; otherwise, they may stay on the boat. Children up to four years old may only participate by staying on the support boat, accompanied by a guardian.
The entire excursion lasts, on average, two and a half hours. However, you are free to continue enjoying the pool, restaurant, and bar in the visitors' area after the tour.
Duration: 2h40
Distance 900 m
Minimum Age 4
Maximum weight: 140 kg
Distance from Bonito: 8 km
Difficulty
Easy