Ilha Grande - Costa Verde 4 days

Lopes Mendes beach © pt

Ilha Grande is an ecological paradise situated 125 km (78mi.) outside Rio, between the bays of Angra dos Reis and Mangaratiba. 1/3 of the island is a State Park created in 1971 to preserve the Atlantic Forest. Boat trips, diving, trekking on ecological trails and a great variety of pousadas, restaurants and shops make this place into a perfect choice for your vacations – the close contact with the nature, without loosing comfort or tranquility. But the most important thing about Ilha Grande and Vila do Abraão is that it still is a small fisherman village that hasn’t lost its simplicity and charm because of the tourism. It is just one of those unforgettable places on earth.

Ilha Grande was considered by National Geographic Traveler (2007) one of the World's Most Appealing Islands in the World. The 522 experts vote on wich ones avoid the danger, which are succumbing to it, and which hang in the balance. Read the testimonials: "Stunning destination still richly forested and with marvelous beaches and charming little communities. Its proximity to Rio de Janeiro means relatively easy access. Care needs to be taken not to ruin it."  "Great ecological quality and touristic appeal, mainly because tourism is highly local. There are no big international developments or big hotels."  "Integration of nature and new dwellings is characteristic of the architecture of the island. Land-use controls are in place that prevent overdevelopment."  "Surprisingly clean. The coral reefs circling the island are abundant with fish." "Real estate development is a threat to the biodiversity. Still a pristine place with abundance in wildlife and marine life." Click here to see this information at National Geographic Traveler

Program Summary

Day 1 - Rio de Janeiro - Ilha Grande
Depart from Rio de Janeiro or Paraty to Vila do Mangaratiba pier, and boat transfer to Abraão village at Ilha Grande (3 hours). Arrival in the island, meet guide, welcome; Transfer by trolley with English speaking guide (walking distance) to local Pousada. Free afternoon. Overnight at Pousada do Canto.

Day 2 -  Ilha Grande
Breakfast. Regular boat tour to Lopes Mendes beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with 3 km (1.8mi.) long of white sand, clear water with waves and wild nature, all part of an environmental protected area. Tour starts at the Abraão Pier, take the boat for a 50 min ride until the Pouso pier. From there, start an easy walk (1 hour) until Lopes Mendes beach. The path led through the Atlantic forest until the place to swim and snorkeling at the beach. There is also a pipe where you can refresh yourself. After 3 hours relaxing on Lopes Mendes, the tour proceeds returning to the Pouso pier to take the boat back to Vila do Abraão. (B)

Day 3 - Ilha Grande
Breakfast. Free day for relaxing or doing any of the optional tours. (not included in the package). Lunch and dinner at your own. Overnight at Pousada do Canto.

Day 4 - Ilha Grande - Rio de Janeiro
Breakfast. Check out for transferring out at 10:00am. Meet guide assistance at the pousada and walking transfer to Abraão village. Transfer back by trolley with English speaking guide (walking distance) to Abraão village. Boat transfer to Mangaratiba pier. Car transfer to Rio de Janeiro. Drop off at Rio’s hotel or airport.

Regular Transfer beginning or ending in Paraty or Rio de Janeiro.

Departure times:
From Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande:
10:30am – arriving in the island at 17:00pm
Weekends:
08:30am - arriving in the island at 15:00pm

From Paraty to Ilha Grande:
12:30 – arriving in the island at 17:00pm.

From Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro:
10:00am – Arriving in Rio at 14:00pm.

From Ilha Grande to Paraty:
10:00am – arriving in Paraty at 13:00pm.

General Information

Capacity:	Minimum of 2 travelers
Guide Language:	English. Other language upon request
Level:	Easy to Moderate Level Program
Included:	Transportation, welcome in the island by English speaking guide, overnight, breakfast, and 1 regular tour as mentioned above, Ferry boat tickets, luggage transportation by trolley Abraão Pier/Pousada/Abrão Píer
Not Included:	Insurance. Beverage, lunch and dinner.
Personal Gear:	Shorts, pants, t-shirt, sandals or slippers, small rucksack with personal things, swimming trunk/suit, tower, cap, sun block, raincoat.