Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a stunning island located close to Rio de Janeiro, known for its beatiful beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving spots and lush rainforest. When you arrive you feel like in Jurassic World coming to a lost island.

When deciding between Ilha Grande and Ilhabela for your trip, consider the following:

  • Proximity to São Paulo: If you're based in São Paulo and have only a few days, Ilhabela is the better choice due to its closer proximity.
  • Traveling Between São Paulo and Rio: If you plan to drive between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, choosing between the two islands can be more challenging. Ilhabela allows you to bring your car onto the island, offers convenience. It also boasts better infrastructure, including good internet and hospital services, making it a great option if you need to work while traveling. Additionally, Ilhabela has more waterfalls to explore.
  • Island Vibes and Beaches: If you prefer a more remote island experience with no cars around only surrounded by nature, Ilha Grande is the better option.

Discover Ilha Grande, a beatiful island near Rio de Janeiro, famous for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a remote getaway.

Highlights

beach
beach
hiking
hiking
diving
diving
nature
nature
When to Go
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You can visit the island all year round. The best time to visit Ilha Grande is from April to June, when there are fewer tourists, clearer skies, and more pleasant temperatures. Summer (December to March) is the rainiest season and the busiest, with higher prices and crowded beaches. While the island's weather can be unpredictable, it's generally drier from June to August, but July sees an increase in tourists due to school holidays.

How to Get There
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Ilha Grande is accessible only by boat from three main departure points on the mainland: Mangaratiba, Conceição de Jacareí, and Angra dos Reis. From Rio de Janeiro, you can drive or take a bus to any of these coastal towns. The most convenient route is via Conceição de Jacareí, which offers frequent fast boats with a short crossing time. Angra dos Reis provides more boat options and calmer waters, ideal for those prone to seasickness. Mangaratiba is closest to Rio but has limited ferry schedules. Most visitors arrive at Vila do Abraão, the island's main village. Transportation options include public ferries (barcas), private boats (escunas), and fast boats. For convenience, door-to-door transfer services are available from Rio de Janeiro and other nearby cities. If you're coming from São Paulo, consider driving or taking a bus to Angra dos Reis, which is the most accessible point from São Paulo. Tickets for boats can be purchased online or at the departure points. If driving, paid parking is available at all departure points, as no cars are allowed on the island.

How Long to Stay
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We recommend staying 3 to 7 days. The island is great for relaxing and enjoying some of its beautiful beaches, hikes and the dense Atlantic Rainforest. In 3 days you can see the most important highlights, but feel free to stay as much as you need on this paradise.

Where to Stay
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Vila do Abraão is the main village of Ilha Grande, where most hotels, bars, restaurants, and tours are located. It's the most convenient place to stay. Although there's no beach directly nearby, great beaches are easily accessible with a short hike. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in one of the accommodations along the beaches if you prefer a more secluded experience with direct access to a beach.

Getting Around

There are no cars on the island. You use your feet or boats.