Projeto Jibóia

In the heart of the popular tourist region of Bonito lies a unique educational project — Projeto Jibóia (The Boa Project). This amazing place, founded in 2005, is entirely dedicated to demystifying myths about snakes, particularly boa constrictors. It combines the functions of an ecological center and an interactive museum, offering tourists a look at reptiles from a completely different perspective.

Jibóia Project. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main mission of the project in Brazil is to show that snakes are important regulators of the natural ecosystem and are not nearly as dangerous as commonly believed. It is home to 12 boa constrictors and one Burmese python, all of whom have been accustomed to human interaction since birth. All inhabitants are microchipped and under the strict control of environmental services, ensuring safety for both the animals and visitors.

Projeto Jibóia has become one of the highest-rated attractions in the city thanks to its educational activities and unusual way of presenting information. It is an ideal place for a family holiday, where the fear of the unknown is replaced by genuine interest and respect for wildlife.

For more details before your visit, you can use the following contact information:

The highlight of the visit is the interactive presentation, often led by the project's founder himself. During the lecture, visitors learn fascinating details about the life of boas: how they hunt at night, how they sense the heat of their prey, and what role they play in controlling pest populations. The information is presented in a light, sometimes humorous style, helping even the most fearful guests relax.

The most exciting moment of the program is the opportunity for direct contact with the reptiles. Those who wish can hold a friendly boa on their shoulders and take unique photographs. The snakes here are very calm and are not subjected to stress, as the interaction occurs exclusively at the tourist's request in an atmosphere of complete trust.

For those who want to take a piece of this place home, there is a gift shop on-site with themed products. The project is also excellent for school trips, where children are taught the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity in an accessible way.

Reaching this amazing place is easy, as it is located in the Formoso district, just 1.5 kilometers from the city center. For those who prefer walking, the trek from the central streets will take very little time. You can also always use a local taxi or rent a bike, which is a popular way to get around in this part of the region.

If you are planning a trip from further away, such as Campo Grande, prepare for a journey of about 300 km. You can cover this distance by intercity bus or rental car. Upon arrival in the city, head for R. Nestor Fernandes, 610 — it is a quiet area located in close proximity to the main tourist routes.

The history of this unusual place began in 2005 thanks to entrepreneur Henrique Naufal. His deep interest in snakes was born back in 1983 during an exchange program in Australia, where he first got a boa constrictor as a pet. This personal experience became the foundation for the mission to protect reptiles in Brazil.

Over the years of its existence, the project has grown into a full-fledged serpentarium. The founder's main goal was to change the negative perception of snakes in society. Henrique sought to show them not as dangerous enemies, but as vulnerable and extremely important members of the ecosystem, thereby preventing their senseless extermination.

Today, the project is an important part of the state's educational program. Residents of the city can attend the lectures for free, which contributes to the growth of environmental awareness among the local population. From a small private initiative, Projeto Jibóia has grown into a significant ecotourism site, combining science, education, and a love for nature.

To fully enjoy the program and take your time viewing the project's inhabitants, it is recommended to set aside about 2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to attend the main lecture and watch the educational video materials.

In addition to the official part, you will likely want to spend time in the contact area, talk with the curators, and take memorable photos. If you plan to stop by the gift shop, add another 15–20 minutes to your schedule.

The project's doors are open to visitors from Monday to Saturday. The main activity begins in the evening: lectures and presentations traditionally start at 7:00 PM, while the center itself is open from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Sunday is the day off.

Please note that the schedule may change depending on the season or public holidays. We recommend checking the current schedule on the project's official website or at local travel agencies before your visit.

Visiting the serpentarium can be perfectly combined with a walk through the surroundings, which are famous for their hospitality and variety of flavors. Exploring the local gastronomy and cozy establishments will complement your impressions of the trip, allowing you to relax after a busy day.

Within walking distance of the project are popular bars and restaurants where you can try traditional Brazilian drinks and dishes. Below is a list of nearby points of interest: