Discover the attractions of Grupo Rio da Prata and learn how they blend transformative experiences for travelers with ecosystem conservation and regional development.
Perfect for those seeking adventure and an intimate connection with Brazil’s nature, Mato Grosso do Sul is home to crystal-clear rivers, lush wildlife, and a collection of stunning waterfalls. In the Bonito region, one group stands out for redefining the tourism industry and transforming the traveler’s experience.
Rio da Prata Group manages three tourist attractions across two properties. Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata and Lagoa Misteriosa (Ecological Sanctuary Rio da Prata and Mystery Lake) are located at Fazenda Cabeceira do Prata in the municipality of Jardim, while Estancia Mimosa is situated in Bonito.
Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata (Ecological Sanctuary Rio da Prata )
At Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata, you can snorkel 1.7 km through crystal-clear waters alongside schoals of fish such as piraputangas and dourados. This unique experience can be combined with a hike through the riparian forest, birdwatching, or a horseback ride to enjoy the sunset. With luck, you might spot armadillos, anteaters, macaws, and other wildlife. Shorter alternative routes make the tour more accessible for children and those with mobility challenges.
Lagoa Misteriosa
Located on the same property as Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata, Lagoa Misteriosa is renowned for its incredible water clarity and indeterminate depth, with recorded depths reaching 220 meters. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and diving tours with visibility exceeding 40 meters, revealing submerged treetops in one of Brazil’s deepest underwater caves.
Estancia Mimosa
At Estancia Mimosa, the fun lies in exploring 10 waterfalls of varying sizes along a 2,450-meter trail through the riparian forest of the Mimoso River. Horseback riding is also available for small groups of up to six people.
Sustainability and Rio da Prata Group
As if these experiences weren’t enough to captivate visitors, Rio da Prata Group goes further by combining regional development through farming and ranching activities with tourism and sustainable practices. Impressively, they are a carbon-positive operation!
One of their most inspiring initiatives is designating parts of their properties as Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs), ensuring the permanent preservation of these territories—60% of Est’ncia Mimosa and 20% of Recanto Ecológico. Another standout feature is their use of clean energy, including solar-powered boats.
Visitors are also positively impacted. Before entering the water, guests are advised to remove chemical products (e.g., sunscreen) to prevent groundwater contamination. During the trails, they are introduced to the local ecosystem and learn about agroforestry projects, organic gardens, and composting initiatives on the properties.
These and other initiatives have earned national and international recognition. Some of the awards and certifications received by the group include:
- Climate Positive Certification from the Green Initiative Organization
- Sustainable Tourism Business Certification from Green Destinations
- 2024 Eco Amcham Award in the Products and Services category
- 2024 Braztoa Sustainability Award in the Management and Governance category
The group’s practices not only enrich the tourism experience but also set a standard of responsibility and innovation that can inspire other entrepreneurs to adopt similar measures for a more sustainable future.
Want to learn more about the attractions Mato Grosso do Sul has to offer? Visit the destination’s website and Instagram.
Written by: Elaine Villatoro – Live More, Travel More
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