Ilha Grande
Brazil · Rio de Janeiro · 10 m
Description
Ilha Grande is a tropical island on Brazil’s Costa Verde in the state of Rio de Janeiro and a natural paradise of lush rainforest, green mountains, and crystal-clear waters. The car-free island is known for the protected Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica), hidden coves, and more than 100 beaches, many of which are accessible only on foot or by boat. It is especially famous for Lopes Mendes, one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, with fine sand and turquoise waters. The village of Vila do Abraão offers charming pousadas, restaurants, and boat trips to secluded bays. Ilha Grande represents untouched nature, tranquility, and adventure along one of Brazil’s most spectacular coastlines.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 8 days (optimal 5 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: July – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Lopes Mendes Beach
- Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul)
- Abraão Village
- Green Lagoon (Lagoa Verde)
- Boat Tour around Ilha Grande
- Pico do Papagaio
- Feiticeira Waterfall
- Praia do Aventureiro
- Palm Tree Beach (Praia de Palmas)
- Praia do Parnaioca
- Praia de Dois Rios
- Dois Rios Village
- Ecomuseum of Ilha Grande
- Cândido Mendes Prison Ruins
- Aqueduct (Aqueduto)
- Saco do Céu
- Ilhas Botinas(Day trip)
- Sítio Forte diving
- Palmas diving
- Mata Atlântica rainforest trails
- Parrot Peak sunrise hike
- Castelhanos Lighthouse
- Paraty(Day trip)
- Angra dos Reis(Day trip)
Getting there
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry