Ilha Grande & Paraty: Nature, History, and Adventure on the Coast of Rio de Janeiro
Discover why both should be on your itinerary.

If you're planning to explore Brazil's Costa Verde, here’s a tip you won’t regret: Ilha Grande and Paraty are two stunning destinations that perfectly complement each other.
Together, they offer the best of both worlds wild nature and rich culture.
Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and though they offer different vibes, they belong on the same travel itinerary.
Why visit both?
🌴 Ilha Grande is a nature lover’s paradise. No cars, just forest trails, waterfalls, wild beaches, and the peaceful rhythm of village life. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with the moment.
Ilha Grande is where you unplug and truly breathe.
One of the island’s most famous spots is Lopes Mendes Beach, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waves often voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil.
For a refreshing dip after a hike, don’t miss the Feiticeira Waterfall, hidden deep in the forest. And if you’re looking for that iconic postcard view, the legendary Aventureiro Beach, with its leaning palm tree, is an unforgettable stop.
Many of these places can be reached by trail or by boat or you can combine both for the ultimate island adventure.
Check out our post on the
top boat tours in Ilha Grande what to expect and why you shouldn’t miss them.
If you're into hiking, don’t miss Ilha Grande's top trail picks. Explore hiking routes to
Lopes Mendes,
Feiticeira, and
more
Most routes on Ilha Grande are self-guided, but going with a local guide can make all the difference adding rich context, hidden stories, and extra safety to your adventure.
🏛️
Paraty, on the other hand, is a colonial town full of charm. But it’s also surrounded by forest, waterfalls, and coastline.
Want something a little different? Visit one of the many
local
cachaça distilleries
or go chasing
waterfalls
in the nearby hills.
You can also go relax in the laid-back surf town of Trindade, hike through the forest to reach the beautiful Praia do Sono
Nature and culture, side by side.
Paraty is where you soak up history and learn (and taste!) how Brazil’s famous
cachaça is made.
Explore more: Check out tours to Praia do Sono and Trindade two must-see spots if you're in the Paraty area!



Getting from one to the other
There are shared and privatetransfer options that make it easy to travel between the two.
But if you're feeling adventurous, it's also possible to combine local buses and boats for a more independent journey.
We've written a full post with updated bus schedules and tips on how to go from Ilha Grande to Paraty on your own.



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