Reserva Ecológica Baia Bonita
Reserva Ecológica Baia Bonita: A Natural Aquarium
Buraco das Araras: A Macaw Paradise
Discover South America's largest sinkhole, a vibrant sanctuary for red-and-green macaws and diverse wildlife in the heart of Brazil's Cerrado.
Buraco das Araras, or 'Macaw Hole,' is a massive sinkhole in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, home to a vibrant population of red-and-green macaws and other wildlife. This natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness these stunning birds in their natural habitat and learn about the region's geological history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Buraco das Araras
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Jardim, Jardim, State of Mato Grosso do Sul, BR
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Getting There
Car
If driving from Bonito, head northwest on Av. Don Pedro II toward Rua 1 de Maio. Continue onto MS-178 for approximately 30 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Buraco das Araras, which will be on your left. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes. Parking is available near the visitor center.
Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from Bonito to Buraco das Araras takes about 40-50 minutes. Expect to pay around R$100-150 for a one-way trip. Arrange the fare before starting the journey.
Public Transport
From the Bonito bus terminal, take a bus towards Jardim. The bus ride to Jardim typically takes about 30-40 minutes. From Jardim, you may need to take a taxi or arrange a ride to the reserve, approximately 5 kilometers from the bus stop. Confirm the return schedule with the bus driver, as services may be limited. Bus fare to Jardim is approximately R$15-25. Taxi from Jardim to Buraco das Araras is approximately R$20-30.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and to see the macaws most active.
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Bring binoculars for a closer look at the birds and other wildlife.
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Wear comfortable shoes for the easy but worthwhile walk around the sinkhole.
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Book your tour in advance through an agency in Bonito, as entry tickets are not sold at the gate.
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Consider combining your visit with a tour of Rio da Prata, another popular natural attraction located nearby.
Discover more about Buraco das Araras
Buraco das Araras is one of Brazil's largest sinkholes, with a circumference of 500 meters and a depth of 100 meters. The doline was formed approximately 300,000 years ago due to the collapse of sandstone boulders and the dissolution of limestone. The sinkhole was discovered in 1912 by cowboys and was initially called 'buracão' (big hole).
The site is now a Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN), protecting 29 hectares of Cerrado biome. It's home to a diverse ecosystem, including over 150 bird species, mammals like armadillos and anteaters, reptiles like caimans, and a variety of plant life. The main attraction is the red-and-green macaw (Ara chloropterus), which nests in the rocky walls of the sinkhole. Visitors can observe these 'flying rainbows' from two viewing platforms, offering remarkable viewing and photographic opportunities.
The reserve offers guided tours led by bilingual guides or environmental monitors, with a maximum of 15 visitors per group. The standard tour is an easy walk of about one kilometer from the ticket office to the outlook and back, accessible to wheelchairs. The tour provides insights into the sinkhole's formation, the macaws' life cycle, and the conservation efforts to protect this unique environment.
A brief summary to Buraco das Araras
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More about Cerrado
Discover the Cerrado: Brazil's unique tropical savanna, teeming with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
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