river swimming area · Bonito, MS
Balneário Municipal
A public leisure area run by the city on the banks of the Rio Formoso, about 6.5 km from downtown. The clear water lets you see schools of fish up close, with shallow stretches for children and deeper areas for swimming.
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 Balneário Municipal
The Balneário Municipal is Bonito's most traditional river swimming area, about 6.5 km from downtown, on the banks of the Rio Formoso. It is the place to spend a day in the water without a fixed schedule, between the floats and caves of your trip.
The water is green and clear, and the fish come very close to anyone who gets in the river, especially the piraputangas. In the surrounding trees you often see capuchin monkeys and many birds.
The area has several swimming spots along about 200 meters of river, with shallow stretches, good for children, and deeper ones. Facilities include a restaurant, a snack bar, kiosks with barbecue grills, sports courts, restrooms and a camping area.
It is a relaxed outing with no physical effort, and one of the few in Bonito where you can bring your own food and drinks for a barbecue.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A morning or an afternoon is enough to swim with the fish and relax; many people spend the whole day.
Best time
On hot days, in the morning, when the river is calmer and the light lets you see the fish clearly in the clear water.
How to get there
It is about 6.5 km from downtown Bonito, on a paved road. Go by car, taxi or with a transfer booked through an agency.
Tip
Bring a diving mask to see the fish underwater, and avoid sunscreen and insect repellent before getting into the river. Check in advance how to buy your entry.
A look at the place
Balneário Municipal 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 Balneário Municipal
Is there an entrance fee for the Balneário Municipal in Bonito?
Yes, there is an entrance fee. Young children usually get in free; check the conditions before you go.
Can I bring food to the Balneário Municipal?
Yes. It is one of the few outings in Bonito where you can bring your own food and drinks, and there are kiosks with barbecue grills.
Are there fish at the Balneário Municipal?
Yes, lots. The piraputangas come very close to anyone in the water, and with a mask you can see them clearly.
Is it good for children?
Yes. There are shallow stretches of river, good for children, as well as deeper stretches for strong swimmers.
Is it far from downtown?
No. It is about 6.5 km from downtown Bonito, on a paved road.