Duration4 hrs
There is a type of traveler who arrives in Bonito already knowing what they do not want: lines, noise, and disputed deck space. For those planning their visit with that criterion, Estrela do Formoso is the most direct answer.
The natural swimming area is on an island surrounded by the waters of Rio Formoso (Formoso River), 16 km from downtown Bonito, and operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The structure was designed for smaller groups and for guests who prefer to trade intense movement for an afternoon with more space, more silence, and the same water quality that defines the whole region.
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Rio Formoso is known for the crystal clear waters that define the Bonito region. At Estrela do Formoso, swimming happens directly in the river, with fish moving around bathers.
Getting there includes a route with views of Serra da Bodoquena before the descent to the riverbank, where the island and its decks open up as visitors arrive.
📍 16 km from downtown Bonito · ⏱ 27 minutes of travel time · Difficulty: easy
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The day use is free-flowing within the opening hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The route begins with privileged views of Serra da Bodoquena. Guests arriving by car receive assistance from the team to go down to the riverbank. From there, access is on foot.
The 7 decks are spread across the island. The natural distribution of space means groups stay apart, without the crowding typical of natural swimming areas with a single main area. Water depth and flow vary from one point to another, and the monitor team guides visitors to the best sections according to the day's conditions.
For guests who want even more privacy, the exclusive bungalows are located on and around the island. Their use requires advance booking and a minimum spend, arranged directly with the natural swimming area.
Pergolas follow the same rule: direct booking with the attraction, not through Bonitour. The site has a restaurant, snack bar, and all the support facilities needed for a full day.
Departure time is until 5 p.m. There are changing rooms, showers, and restrooms available for guests who want to change before heading back. Parking is on-site.
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Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Distance from Bonito: 16 km (27 minutes)
7 swimming decks on Rio Formoso
Difficulty: easy
Exclusive bungalows: booking and minimum spend required, directly with the attraction
Pergolas: advance booking directly with the attraction
Snorkel, mask, life jacket, and float rentals available directly with the attraction
Restaurant and snack bar on-site (bring cash)
Open Wi-Fi available
Transportation not included with admission (Bonitour offers additional transport options)
Accessible restroom for wheelchair users
Lifeguards present throughout the swimming area
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Estrela do Formoso is the choice for travelers who want Rio Formoso without the movement of Bonito's best-known natural swimming areas. The proposal combines the quality of the region's crystal clear water with a smaller-scale operation and an island setting that, by its own geography, limits the number of visitors at the same time.
For travelers who want Rio Formoso without the movement of the most competitive natural swimming areas, Estrela do Formoso is our direct recommendation for a Bonito itinerary.
The site is suitable for couples, groups of friends, and families with children who can adapt to short trails and a river environment. There are no declared profile restrictions from the attraction, and the difficulty is classified as easy.
Estrela do Formoso is not a pool or a resort. It is an island natural swimming area in a natural river, with all the beauty that represents and with the practical implications that come with it:
Breakfast, lunch, and transportation are not included with admission
Equipment rental (snorkel, mask, life jackets, floats) and pergola bookings are arranged directly with the attraction, not through Bonitour
Bring cash to cover these expenses on-site
Entry with outside food and drinks is not allowed
The lifeguard team is present throughout the area, and their guidance must be followed
For transportation, Bonitour offers additional service options. Talk to a consultant to check the available alternatives for your travel dates.
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What is the day use at Estrela do Formoso?
It is admission to the natural swimming area for full use of the facilities from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: access to the 7 swimming decks on Rio Formoso, the rest area, restaurant, snack bar, and Wi-Fi. Admission does not include meals, equipment, or transportation.
Do I need to book a bungalow or pergola in advance?
Yes, and the booking is made directly with the attraction, not through Bonitour. Bungalows require a minimum spend; confirm availability before you arrive.
Can I rent snorkels and floats on-site?
Yes, the natural swimming area offers snorkel, mask, life jacket, and float rentals directly at reception. Bring cash for this cost.
Is transportation included?
No. Bonitour offers additional transportation options to Estrela do Formoso; contact a consultant to check the available alternatives.
Is the natural swimming area accessible for wheelchair users?
The site has an accessible restroom for wheelchair users. For specific information about accessibility along the route and at the decks, we recommend contacting a Bonitour consultant in advance.
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Snorkel, mask, life jacket, and float rentals available directly with the attraction
Pergola booking is arranged directly with the attraction (not through Bonitour)
The natural swimming area team helps visitors arriving by car go down to the riverbank
Open Wi-Fi available throughout the area
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Entry with outside drinks and food is not allowed
Pets are not allowed; guide dogs are accepted
Alcohol consumption is not recommended for anyone entering the river
The lifeguard team is present throughout the swimming area, and their instructions must be followed during the entire visit
Secure payment
Immediate confirmation
Secure payment
Immediate confirmation
