Bonito: Rio da Prata Snorkeling Ticket & Forest Trail

Summary

Snorkel crystal rivers in Bonito and walk wild forest trails

You’ll wander through Bonito’s lush forest trails with a small group before drifting down Rio da Prata’s crystal waters among dozens of tropical fish species. With all snorkeling equipment provided and a regional lunch waiting back at the ranch, you’ll get both adventure and comfort — plus those little moments that stick with you long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We started by stepping into the shade of the forest at Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata, boots crunching on leaves still damp from last night’s rain. Our guide, Ana, pointed out a pair of toucans squabbling overhead — they sounded like rusty swings, honestly. The air smelled green and sharp, like wet bark and something sweet I couldn’t name. I kept lagging behind because every few meters there was some new bird or flash of color in the trees. Ana just grinned and said, “Wait until you see underwater.” I thought she was joking.

The real show began at the Olho d’Água river. Pulling on the wetsuit felt weirdly comforting — snug but not suffocating — and when I slipped into that water, it was so clear my brain stuttered for a second. Fish everywhere: bright yellow stripes, silver flashes darting between rocks. It’s not an exaggeration to say it felt like floating inside an aquarium, except the current nudged us gently along for two kilometers. Sometimes I’d forget to breathe just watching schools twist around my hands. There were only eight of us (they cap it at ten), so it never felt crowded or rushed.

At one point we drifted into the bigger Prata river — Ana warned us it’d be colder and murkier but honestly, after that first stretch nothing could really disappoint me. She told us about the ranch’s conservation work while we dried off in the sun; her pride was obvious. Lunch was simple but perfect: rice, beans, some kind of spicy beef stew that made everyone go quiet for a minute except for one guy who asked for seconds before he finished his plate.

I didn’t expect to care about birds but after seeing over fifty fish species underwater, somehow spotting a red macaw near the stables felt like the right end to things. Still think about how quiet it got under those trees before we left — just wind and distant water sounds. If you’re looking for a day trip in Bonito with real moments (and yes, all gear plus lunch included), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and nature trail experience

• Arrive at Recanto Ecologico Rio da Prata
• Snorkel down Olho d'Água river
• Continue snorkeling at Prata river
• Option to board boat or scuba dive
• Enjoy typical lunch included

Top questions

How long is the snorkeling part at Rio da Prata?

The main snorkeling route is about 2 km down Olho d’Água river plus 600 meters in the Prata river.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

Yes, a typical regional lunch is included after your tour.

Are guides provided during the snorkeling tour?

Yes, all groups are led by experienced local guides throughout both trail and snorkeling sections.

What wildlife can I see on this tour?

You’ll likely see over 50 species of tropical fish while snorkeling, plus birds like toucans and possibly macaws along the trail.

Is all snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, wetsuits and all necessary snorkeling gear are provided as part of your ticket.

How big are the groups during snorkeling?

The maximum group size per booking is ten people.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Children under 12 can join if accompanied by an adult; infants must sit on an adult's lap during transfers.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers past 20 weeks or those with certain medical conditions such as heart problems or recent surgery.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata with guided forest walks and all snorkeling equipment supplied; accident insurance is covered too. After exploring both rivers with your local guide (groups capped at ten), you’ll enjoy a regional ranch-style lunch before heading back out into Bonito’s wild air.