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Olá, this is your complete guide to visiting Ilha Grande in 2025! Join me, your Brazilian friend, on a journey to one of Brazil’s most stunning paradise islands!
Ilha Grande is a tropical paradise located just off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, offering an authentic Brazilian island experience that feels worlds away from the bustling city. This travel guide will help you navigate everything from transportation to accommodations, ensuring your visit to Ilha Grande Brazil is nothing short of extraordinary.
Visiting Ilha Grande Brazil is more than just a beach getaway. It’s about connecting with nature in its purest form. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for challenging Ilha Grande hiking trails or someone seeking peaceful relaxation on the best Ilha Grande beaches, this island paradise offers something for everyone.
Getting to Ilha Grande requires a bit of planning, but don’t worry! This Ilha Grande travel guide will walk you through every step of the journey, from Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo to the island’s main village, with plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget.
Join me as we explore the best ways to get to Ilha Grande, discover its most beautiful Ilha Grande beaches, find the perfect Ilha Grande accommodation options, and learn everything you need to know to make your Ilha Grande Brazil adventure unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Ilha Grande in 2025?
Ilha Grande is a fantastic destination that stands out for its incredible natural beauty. The place is known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush Atlantic rainforest. So whether you like hiking, snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach, Ilha Grande’s natural wonders will win you over.
In addition, the island is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, marine life, and exotic plants. When you visit the island, you will be able to see these species in their natural habitat, with various tours and ecological activities available to enhance your experience.
For those seeking adventure, Ilha Grande offers a wide range of activities, such as hiking to Pico do Papagaio for panoramic views, visiting caves, or scuba diving in some of the best spots in Brazil. The island’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that these activities are both exciting and environmentally conscious.
How to Get to Ilha Grande Brazil
Getting to Ilha Grande requires a combination of land and sea travel, but I promise the journey to this Brazilian paradise is worth it!
There are no bridges connecting the island to the mainland, so a boat trip is essential for any Ilha Grande travel plan.
From Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande
If you’re starting your journey in Rio, you have several options:
Option 1: Bus + Ferry (Most Economical Ilha Grande Route)
- Take a bus from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis, Conceição de Jacareí or Mangaratiba. Buses depart from the Novo Rio Bus Terminal.
- To Angra dos Reis: The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs around R$50-70.
- To Conceição de Jacareí: The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around R$50.
- To Mangaratiba: The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around R$50.
- From either port, catch a ferry or speedboat to Vila do Abraão (the main village on Ilha Grande).
Option 2: Private Transfer + Ferry to Ilha Grande (Most Comfortable)
- Book a private transfer from Rio to Angra dos Reis or Mangaratiba (approximately R$600-800 for up to 4 people).
- This option saves you the hassle of navigating public transportation and is ideal if you’re traveling with lots of luggage.
Option 3: Organized Ilha Grande Tour (Most Convenient)
- Several tour companies offer direct transfers from Rio to Ilha Grande, including the boat crossing.
- These typically cost R$200-300 per person and may include pickup from your hotel.
From São Paulo to Ilha Grande
If you’re coming from São Paulo to Ilha Grande Brazil, the journey is longer but still manageable:
- Take a bus from São Paulo to Angra dos Reis (6-7 hours, approximately R$120-190).
- From Angra dos Reis, catch a ferry or speedboat to Vila do Abraão on Ilha Grande.
Alternative Ilha Grande Route
- You can also take a bus to Paraty, stay overnight to explore this beautiful colonial town, then take a boat directly to Ilha Grande the next day.
Ilha Grande Ferry and Boat Options
Several companies operate boats to Ilha Grande Brazil:
Regular Ilha Grande Ferries (Barcas)
- CCR Barcas operates the most economical service to Ilha Grande, with tickets costing around R$20,50 one-way.
- These large ferries are slower (1-1.5 hours) but more stable in rough seas.
- They typically run 2-3 times daily, with limited service on Sundays.
Ilha Grande Speedboats (Escunas or Lanchas)
- Fast boats to Ilha Grande cost R$150-200 one-way and take 30-40 minutes from Angra or Mangaratiba.
- These smaller boats offer more frequent departures but can be bumpy in rough weather.
- Tickets can be purchased at the port or often reserved through your Ilha Grande accommodation.
Important for Ilha Grande Travel: Always check the latest ferry schedule before planning your trip, as times can change seasonally and during holidays. I recommend arriving at the port at least 30 minutes before departure.
When to Visit Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande is beautiful year-round, but timing your visit can greatly impact your experience:
High Season on Ilha Grande (December to March)
- Brazilian summer brings hot weather to Ilha Grande with temperatures between 28-35°C (82-95°F).
- Expect higher prices, more visitors, and a livelier atmosphere on Ilha Grande beaches.
- January and February are particularly busy with Brazilian holiday-makers.
- New Year and Carnival periods are extremely crowded on Ilha Grande and require advance booking.
Ilha Grande Shoulder Season (April-May and September-November)
- My personal recommendation for the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds on Ilha Grande.
- Temperatures are pleasant (24-30°C/75-86°F) with lower humidity.
- Ilha Grande accommodations offer better rates and the beaches are less crowded.
Low Season on Ilha Grande (June to August)
- Brazilian winter brings milder temperatures to Ilha Grande (20-25°C/68-77°F).
- Occasional rain showers are more common but rarely last all day.
- Significant discounts on Ilha Grande accommodation and activities.
- Some restaurants and tour operators may have limited schedules.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: If you visit Ilha Grande Brazil during the low season, pack a light jacket for evenings and be prepared for occasional rain. The upside is you might have some of the most beautiful Ilha Grande beaches almost to yourself!
How long to stay on Ilha Grande
I’d say 3 to 5 days is the magic number.
- 2 days: You’ll get a taste, but it’ll leave you craving more.
- 3–5 days: Enough time to explore a few beaches, hike a trail or two, and unwind properly.
- 1 week+: Ideal if you want to go full zen or explore remote corners of the island.
Where to Stay in Ilha Grande
The heart of the island is Vila do Abraão — the main hub with most accommodations, restaurants, and tour agencies. Here you’ll find all accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: Book Ilha Grande accommodation well in advance for high season visits.
Other Areas of Ilha Grande
While most facilities are concentrated in Abraão, staying in other parts of the island offers a more secluded experience:
Praia Vermelha and Praia do Bananal Ilha Grande
- More isolated Ilha Grande beaches with a handful of pousadas.
- Ideal for those seeking peace and quiet on Ilha Grande.
- Be prepared for limited dining options and services.
Araçatiba Ilha Grande
- A small fishing village on the opposite side of the island from Abraão.
- Has a few basic Ilha Grande pousadas and restaurants.
- Access is by boat taxi from Abraão or direct boat from Angra dos Reis.
Important for Ilha Grande Stays: Outside of Abraão, expect more rustic accommodations, limited or no WiFi, and fewer amenities. You’ll need to arrange boat transportation to access these areas of Ilha Grande.
Top Ilha Grande Beaches to Visit
Ilha Grande Brazil boasts some of Brazil’s most stunning beaches. Here are my absolute favorite:
Lopes Mendes Beach Ilha Grande
Often ranked among the top 10 most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Lopes Mendes is a must-visit Ilha Grande beach:
- A 3km stretch of fine, powdery white sand that squeaks under your feet.
- Crystal clear, turquoise water perfect for swimming and surfing.
- No buildings, restaurants, or vendors – just pure, unspoiled nature that epitomizes the Ilha Grande experience.
How to get to Lopes Mendes Ilha Grande: Take a 40-minute boat taxi from Abraão to Pouso Beach, then hike for 20 minutes through the forest trail to reach Lopes Mendes.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: There are no facilities at this popular Ilha Grande beach, so bring plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and cash for the boat ride. Go early in the morning to have more of the beach to yourself!
Dois Rios Beach Ilha Grande
This historical Ilha Grande beach is where the infamous Cândido Mendes prison once stood:
- Two rivers meet the ocean here, creating a spectacular landscape.
- The ruins of the old prison can still be visited.
- This Ilha Grande beach is less crowded than others due to the longer hike required to reach it.
How to get to Dois Rios Ilha Grande: Hike approximately 2.5 hours from Abraão through a well-marked trail, or take a boat to Caxadaço beach and hike for 30 minutes.
Lagoa Azul Ilha Grande (Blue Lagoon)
A stunning snorkeling spot on the northern side of Ilha Grande:
- Incredibly clear, shallow waters teeming with colorful fish.
- Protected cove making it perfect for swimming.
- Surrounded by small islands and lush vegetation that showcases Ilha Grande’s natural beauty.
How to get to Lagoa Azul Ilha Grande: Only accessible by boat, typically as part of a day tour from Abraão.
Praia Preta Ilha Grande
The closest beach to Vila do Abraão, just a 15-minute walk:
- Black sand beach (hence the name “Black Beach”).
- Calm waters suitable for swimming.
- Convenient location with easy access to the village amenities.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: This Ilha Grande beach is a great spot for a quick swim if you’re short on time or just want to relax close to town.
Aventureiro Beach Ilha Grande
Located in one of the most remote parts of Ilha Grande Brazil:
- Iconic bent palm tree perfect for photos.
- Small fishing community with authentic local culture.
- Requires a special permit to visit as it’s in a biological reserve.
Important for Visiting Aventureiro Ilha Grande: This beach has restrictions on visitor numbers and requires advance booking of a permit. Ask your accommodation or a local agency to help arrange this for your Ilha Grande travel itinerary.
Top Things to Do in Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande Hiking Trails
Ilha Grande is a hiker’s paradise with trails connecting nearly every beach and settlement:
Circuit Trail (Volta da Ilha Grande)
- The most ambitious trek circumnavigates the entire island.
- It can take 4 to 10 days to complete if done in full.
- Can be broken into sections for day hikes during your Ilha Grande trip.
Pico do Papagaio Ilha Grande
- Challenging hike to the island’s second-highest peak (982m).
- Approximately 4 hours each way from Abraão.
- Stunning panoramic views of the entire Ilha Grande and mainland.
- Guide recommended for this Ilha Grande trail.
Abraão to Dois Rios Ilha Grande Trail
- Popular day hike along the historic prison trail.
- Moderate difficulty, 2.5 hours each way.
- Passes through dense Atlantic Rainforest with chances to spot Ilha Grande wildlife.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: Wear proper hiking shoes, carry enough water, and start early to avoid hiking during the hottest hours of the day. Even on cloudy days, the humidity makes Ilha Grande hiking challenging.
Ilha Grande Boat Tours
Various boat tours operate from Vila do Abraão on Ilha Grande:
Full Ilha Grande Tour (Volta à Ilha)
- Circumnavigates the entire island, stopping at multiple Ilha Grande beaches.
- Typically includes lunch and snorkeling equipment.
- Takes a full day (8-9 hours) and costs around R$150-200 per person.
Half-Day Ilha Grande Lagoon Tour
- Visits Lagoa Azul and nearby Ilha Grande beaches for snorkeling.
- 4-5 hours, usually with a lunch stop.
- Costs approximately R$100-150 per person.
Private Ilha Grande Boat Hire
- For more flexibility during your Ilha Grande travel, hire a private boat with captain.
- Prices start at around R$800-1000 for a full day.
- Can be cost-effective for groups of 4-8 people exploring Ilha Grande.
Ilha Grande Snorkeling and Diving
The waters around Ilha Grande Brazil are perfect for underwater exploration:
Top Ilha Grande Snorkeling Spots:
- Lagoa Azul Ilha Grande
- Lagoa Verde Ilha Grande
- Ilha de Jorge Grego
- Praia do Dentista Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande Diving:
- Several dive shops in Abraão offer courses and guided dives.
- Prices range from R$250 for a single dive to R$800+ for certification courses.
- Marine life includes turtles, colorful fish, rays, and occasionally dolphins.
Ilha Grande Wildlife Watching
Ilha Grande is home to incredible biodiversity:
- Monkeys: Brown howler monkeys are frequently spotted in the Ilha Grande forests.
- Birds: Over 200 species, including toucans and colorful parrots.
- Marine Life: Sea turtles, various tropical fish, and occasionally dolphins in Ilha Grande waters.
Ilha Grande Practical Information
Money and ATMs on Ilha Grande
- There’s only one ATM in Vila do Abraão (Banco24Horas), which frequently runs out of cash during busy periods.
- Bring enough cash from the mainland to cover your Ilha Grande stay.
- Many restaurants and pousadas accept credit cards, but smaller establishments, boat taxis, and local vendors often don’t.
Internet and Connectivity on Ilha Grande
- WiFi is available in most Ilha Grande accommodations in Vila do Abraão but can be slow and unreliable.
- Mobile coverage is spotty outside the main town of Ilha Grande.
- Major Brazilian carriers (Vivo, Claro, TIM) have reasonable coverage in Abraão, but signal disappears quickly as you move into more remote areas.
- Consider downloading offline maps and guides before arrival for your Ilha Grande travel.
What to Pack for Ilha Grande
- Essential Items for Ilha Grande:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Light, quick-drying clothes
- Rain jacket (regardless of season)
- Swimwear and beach gear
- High SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp or flashlight (some paths are not lit at night)
- Small backpack for day trips
- Reusable water bottle
- Medical Supplies for Ilha Grande:
- Basic first aid kit
- Any prescription medications (the island’s pharmacy is limited)
Practical Tips for Visiting Ilha Grande
- Bug spray is essential: Tropical island = hungry mosquitoes.
- No Cars: The island has no cars or roads – you’ll get everywhere by foot or boat.
- Cash is king: The ATM often runs out of money, so bring enough cash for your entire stay.
- Basic Portuguese helps: While tourist-facing staff often speak some English, learning a few Portuguese phrases will enhance your experience.
- Grocery Shopping: If staying in self-catering accommodation, buy groceries in Angra dos Reis before coming to the island.
- Respect nature: Don’t feed animals or leave trash on trails.
- Early Starts: Begin your activities early in the morning to avoid both crowds and the midday heat.
- Boat Negotiation: Always agree on the price of water taxis before boarding.
Ilha Grande represents Brazil at its natural best – unspoiled beaches, thriving rainforest, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you’re hiking through atlantic forest trails, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, or simply swinging in a hammock with a caipirinha in hand, this island paradise offers a genuine escape from the modern world.
I hope this complete Ilha Grande travel guide helps you plan an unforgettable adventure to one of my favorite places in Brazil. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about visiting Ilha Grande!
Boa viagem! (Have a good trip!)
Helpful Tools for Planning Your Trip
Here are some of my go-to resources to make your trip to Ilha Grande — and Brazil in general — safer, smoother, and more enjoyable:
🗺️ Tours and tickets: I recommend GetYourGuide for skip-the-line tickets and guided tours, including visits to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
💳 Money transfers & cards: Wise is my favorite way to manage money internationally — fair rates, fast transfers and super easy to use.
📶 SIM card: Stay connected with Airalo — it’s an eSIM you can set up before you land.
🧳 Travel insurance: Don’t skip this! I usually go with SafetyWing for flexible and reliable coverage.
🛏️ Hostels: Hostelworld always has solid options and great filters to find hostels close to the main attractions.
Ilha Grande Brazil FAQs
Is Ilha Grande worth visiting?
Absolutely! Ilha Grande is one of Brazil’s most beautiful island destinations, offering pristine beaches, lush Atlantic rainforest, and an authentic Brazilian island experience without cars or major development.
How many days do you need in Ilha Grande?
I recommend spending at least 3-4 days on Ilha Grande to properly explore the main beaches, enjoy some hiking trails, and have time for boat tours or snorkeling. A week would allow you to discover more remote parts of the island.
What is Ilha Grande known for?
Ilha Grande is known for its untouched natural beauty, car-free environment, stunning beaches (especially Lopes Mendes), rich biodiversity, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling, and interesting history as a former prison island.
How do I get from Rio to Ilha Grande?
The most common route from Rio to Ilha Grande is taking a bus to Angra dos Reis (3 hours), followed by a ferry or speedboat to Vila do Abraão (1-2 hours). Alternatively, you can book a direct transfer service or join an organized tour.
Can you stay on Ilha Grande?
Yes, there are numerous accommodation options on Ilha Grande ranging from luxury pousadas and mid-range guesthouses to budget hostels, primarily concentrated in the main village of Vila do Abraão.
What should I bring to Ilha Grande?
For your Ilha Grande travel, bring comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, quick-dry clothing, raincoat, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash (ATMs are limited), basic medications, reusable water bottle, and a small backpack for day trips.
