Duration1 hr, 10 mins
Starting from R$ 103,00
per personGruta Catedral (Cathedral Cave) is located 4.7 km from the center of Bonito and received its current name in 2022, replacing the former name Gruta São Mateus. The name reflects the cave's internal architecture: its high ceiling and upward-pointing formations evoke the interior of a cathedral. This site offers something no other cave in the region provides. It is the only cave in Bonito with entry and exit at different points, which means visitors never retrace their steps — and the interior remains well-ventilated throughout the entire visit.
Most caves in Bonito have a single access point, requiring visitors to walk back the same way they came in. At Gruta Catedral, the entry and exit are on opposite sides of the hill. This layout creates constant air circulation, and the atmosphere inside feels fresher and lighter than visitors typically expect from an underground environment.
Inside, the artificial lighting reveals stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and cave coral formations. Each visitor also receives an individual flashlight, so you can illuminate and explore up close whatever catches your eye along the 60 steps of the route.
📍 4.7 km from the center of Bonito · ⏱ 1h10 · Difficulty: easy
The route is calm and designed for contemplation, not physical exertion.
The tour begins on a suspended trail 5 meters high and 15 meters long, offering the first view of the surroundings before descending into the forest.
Next comes a 280-meter trail through the forest, climbing around the hillside to the cave entrance. This is where closed-toe shoes make a real difference — we recommend light clothing so the walk stays comfortable.
Inside the cave, 60 steps with artificial lighting guide each visitor downward, with the individual flashlight along for the descent. The visit also includes the Kadiwéu Museum (Museu Kadiwéu), featuring objects donated by local residents, automobiles from the 1970s, and on the second floor, a taxidermy wildlife exhibition.
Distance: 4.7 km from the center of Bonito (11-minute drive)
Duration: 1h10
Difficulty: easy
Minimum age: 5 years
Facilities: parking, restrooms, luggage storage, shower, rest area, and Wi-Fi
Transportation not included: a Bonitour consultant will arrange the best transfer option for you
Gruta Catedral is a leisurely-paced tour, ideal for families and anyone who wants to explore a cave without committing to intense physical activity. The facilities — including a shower and rest area — are especially practical for groups traveling with children. Minimum age is 5 years.
It is worth setting the right expectation: the cave is the centerpiece of the visit, and the Kadiwéu Museum is its cultural extension. Visitors who arrive expecting to spend more time in the museum than in the cave may be surprised, because the heart of the experience is inside the gruta.
The route includes 60 internal steps, so closed-toe shoes are the right choice.
Transportation is not included; we recommend speaking with Bonitour to arrange your transfer.
The minimum age is 5 years.
Is Gruta Catedral physically demanding?
No, the difficulty level is easy. The route covers 280 meters of forest trail and 60 steps inside the cave, all at a contemplative pace.
Can children participate?
Yes, from age 5. The facilities — including a rest area and shower — make it family-friendly.
Do I have to walk back the same way?
No. This is the only cave in the Bonito region with separate entry and exit points, which also keeps the interior more ventilated.
Is transportation included?
No. A Bonitour consultant can arrange and explain the best transfer option from Bonito.
Is the museum part of the tour?
Yes. The Kadiwéu Museum is included in the visit, featuring 1970s automobiles and, on the second floor, a taxidermy wildlife display.
The cave was renamed from Gruta São Mateus to Gruta Catedral in 2022, inspired by its internal architectural shape.
Each visitor receives an individual flashlight, even though artificial lighting is already installed throughout the cave.
Minimum age: 5 years.
Closed-toe shoes are required due to the stepped route inside the cave.
Free Cancellation
Cancel up to 48 hours in advance for a refund during the low season. For the high season, please check the cancellation policy.
Secure payment
Flexible cancellation
Immediate confirmation
Secure payment
Flexible cancellation
Immediate confirmation
