canyon · Bodoquena, MS
Cânion do Rio Salobra
It is in the northern section of the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bodoquena, about 30 km from town, and is explored on a trail of approximately 5 km between rock walls. The route follows the banks and the bed of the river, with small waterfalls and natural pools.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cânion do Rio Salobra
The Cânion do Rio Salobra is inside the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bodoquena, in the municipality of Bodoquena (MS). Over millions of years, the river carved through the rock and opened a corridor between walls reaching about 100 meters high, partly covered by forest.
The water is crystal clear, in shades of green and blue, and the tour takes place in and along the river: you walk along the banks, cross the riverbed and stop at pools to swim. There is also the option of going down a stretch of the canyon in an inflatable kayak. Along the way you often see fish such as the piraputanga and, with luck, birds such as the king vulture.
Visits only take place with an accredited guide and in small groups, booked with an operator or agency in Bodoquena. Tours depart from a ranch next to the park, which usually includes 4x4 transportation to the river, a life jacket and a meal.
The effort is moderate: there are stretches of slippery rock and water at leg height or deeper, but you do not need athletic fitness. There are routes of different lengths, a shorter one suited to families and beginners, and a longer one. It is not recommended for young children, pregnant women or people with mobility difficulties.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow the whole day: the river activity takes three to five hours, depending on the route, and the ranch is far from town.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, the water is clearer and the river calmer; in summer it is warmer for swimming, but heavy rain clouds the river and can suspend the tour.
How to get there
The canyon is in rural Bodoquena, a few dozen kilometers from town. Bodoquena is reached via the MS-339 from Miranda, on the BR-262, or from Bonito. The operator tells you the meeting point and offers transportation.
Tip
Wear sneakers or water shoes that can get wet and grip well on rocks, and bring a swimsuit and a change of dry clothes. Book in advance, because groups are small.
Official website
A look at the place
Cânion do Rio Salobra in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cânion do Rio Salobra
Do I need a guide to visit the Cânion do Rio Salobra?
Yes. Visits are only made with an accredited guide, in small groups, booked with an operator or agency in Bodoquena.
Is there a fee to visit the Cânion do Rio Salobra?
Yes. You pay the operator for the tour, and the price varies with the route you choose. Check when you book.
How long is the Salobra Canyon tour?
The river activity takes three to five hours, depending on the route. With travel time, allow the whole day.
Can I bring children to the Cânion do Rio Salobra?
The tour is not recommended for young children. The shorter route is the one recommended for families and beginners; confirm the minimum age with the operator.
What should I bring to the Cânion do Rio Salobra?
A swimsuit, shoes that can get wet and grip well, sunscreen and a change of dry clothes. A life jacket is provided.