Lagoa Misteriosa
Lagoa Misteriosa: A Dive into Mystery
Buraco das Araras: A Macaw Paradise
Discover South America's largest sinkhole, a vibrant sanctuary for red-and-green macaws and diverse wildlife in Mato Grosso do Sul.
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 bird species. This natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness these colorful birds in their natural habitat.
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
Explore places near Buraco das Araras
Getting There
Car
From Bonito, drive 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 drive takes about 40-50 minutes. Parking is available at the visitor center.
Public Transportation
From the Bonito bus terminal, take a local bus towards Jardim. The bus ride to Jardim typically takes about 30-40 minutes. From Jardim, take a taxi or arrange a ride to the reserve, approximately 5 kilometers away. Confirm the return schedule with the bus driver, as services may be limited. Bus fare to Jardim is approximately R$10-R$15. Expect to pay around R$20-R$30 for a taxi from Jardim to the reserve.
Taxi/Rideshare
Consider taking a taxi or rideshare service from Bonito directly to Buraco das Araras for a convenient and direct route. The ride takes about 40-50 minutes. Expect to pay around R$100-R$150 for a one-way trip.
Local tips
✓
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and to see the macaws most active.
✓
Bring binoculars for a closer view of the birds and other wildlife.
✓
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails.
✓
Book your tour in advance through an agency in Bonito, as entry tickets are not sold at the site.
Discover more about Buraco das Araras
Buraco das Araras is one of Brazil's largest sinkholes, a breathtaking geological formation located near Jardim, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. This immense doline, approximately 100 meters deep and 500 meters in circumference, formed over millions of years through the dissolution of limestone rock. The sinkhole's formation began about 10 million years ago, with water seeping into the sandstone rock and dissolving the underground limestone. The large cavity was consolidated around 300,000 years ago.Discovered in 1912 by local cowboys who named it 'buracão' (big hole), the sinkhole is now a protected Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN) spanning 29 hectares. It is home to a diverse ecosystem, with over 150 bird species, most notably the red-and-green macaw, or 'arara' in Portuguese, from which the sinkhole gets its name. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds soaring around the sinkhole from viewing platforms. Other wildlife, including caimans, armadillos, anteaters, coatis and foxes, also inhabit the area.The site is open to the public for ecotourism, research, and environmental education, with guided tours available to ensure minimal impact on the environment. The standard tour takes about 80 minutes, while a longer, four-hour tour is available for avid birdwatchers and photographers.
A brief summary to Buraco das Araras
Use Buraco das Araras as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Cerrado
Discover the Cerrado: Brazil's unique tropical savanna, teeming with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Tell me more about Cerrado
