25 – Full Day Tour to Angra Dos Reis and Ilha Grande

The full-day tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande offers an exciting opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of Brazil’s coastline. Priced at $78 per person, this comprehensive excursion includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and a range of activities like a scenic schooner ride, snorkeling, and a buffet lunch. With a maximum group size of 45, the tour operates rain or shine, promising an adventure-filled day for travelers. While some reviews mention occasional overcrowding and delays, the tour remains a popular choice for those seeking to enjoy the region’s idyllic islands and beaches.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande is priced from $78 per person and includes transportation, guide, schooner ride, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
• The tour operates rain or shine with a maximum of 45 travelers and provides pickup locations in select neighborhoods with a 6:30 am departure time.
• The journey can take up to 2 hours each way and may involve multiple buses and boats, with no transportation provided to Barra da Tijuca or Recreio.
• The tour offers a diverse fleet of boats with free floaters, but life vests are for emergencies only, and guests are advised to bring their own lunch.
• Despite mixed reviews, the popular tour continues to be offered, with the company acknowledging operational challenges and promising improvements to address customer concerns.

Tour Overview and Details

The tour offers a full-day excursion to the picturesque destinations of Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande.

Priced from $78 per person, it includes transportation, a bilingual guide, a schooner ride, lunch, drinks, dessert, and snorkeling equipment.

The tour operates rain or shine, with a maximum of 45 travelers.

Pickup locations are available in select neighborhoods, with a 6:30 am departure time.

The journey can take up to 2 hours each way, and the tour may involve multiple buses and boats due to high demand.

Guests are advised to bring their own lunch.

Transportation and Logistics

Pickup locations for the tour include Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Lapa.

Guests must be ready by 6:30 am for hotel pickups, with an official departure time of 7:00 am.

The journey each way can take up to 2 hours, with potential delays due to heavy traffic.

The tour may involve multiple buses and boats to accommodate high demand, potentially exceeding the advertised group size.

Guests are advised to expect a long commute and plan accordingly, as the tour doesn’t provide transportation to Barra da Tijuca or Recreio.

Safety and Equipment

Though the tour offers a diverse fleet of boats ranging from 50 to 90 passenger capacities, all trips require Navy approval.

Free floaters are provided, but life vests are for emergencies only. Recreational vests are available for rent at R$ 35.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Guests are advised to bring their own lunch due to late meal service on the tour.

While the tour give you a comprehensive experience, guests should be prepared for potential challenges, such as limited safety equipment and accessibility constraints.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Customers have provided a mixed bag of reviews for the Full Day Tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande. Positive comments highlight the beautiful beaches and knowledgeable guides.

However, negative experiences include overcrowding, delays, and miscommunication. Common complaints revolve around long bus rides, inadequate meal timing, and false advertising on group sizes.

Specific incidents reported poor customer service, late pickups, and unprofessional behavior from staff. While the company acknowledges these issues and promises improvements, some guests describe chaotic environments with loud music and a need for better organization and structure.

Operational Challenges and Company Response

The high tourist volume associated with this tour can lead to operational challenges, as the company acknowledges.

Overcrowding and delays are common issues, which the company says it’s working to improve. Some guests have reported chaotic environments with loud music, while others described the need for better organization and structure.

Overcrowding and delays plague the tour, though the company aims to address these issues, customers report chaotic environments and a need for better organization.

The company has responded to complaints with apologies and a commitment to review operations for future improvements.

Despite these challenges, the company continues to offer this popular tour, emphasizing its efforts to address the concerns raised by customers.

Exploring the Islands of Angra Dos Reis

As the tour departs Angra dos Reis, guests embark on a scenic schooner ride to the picturesque Ilha Grande, a tranquil island renowned for its pristine beaches and lush Atlantic rainforest.

Upon arrival, they’ll have the opportunity to snorkel and explore the island’s vibrant marine life. Guests can hike through the verdant trails, stopping to admire the stunning vistas and cascading waterfalls.

Lunch is provided, offering a chance to savor local cuisine while surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.

With ample time to relax on the beaches, this excursion promises an immersive experience in the stunning Angra dos Reis archipelago.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

After arriving at Ilha Grande, guests can don their provided snorkeling equipment and enjoy the island’s vibrant underwater world.

The crystal-clear waters teem with a diverse array of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional dolphin. Guests can explore the underwater caves, coral reefs, and kelp forests, marveling at the natural beauty that lies beneath the surface.

For those seeking a more thrilling experience, the tour also offers the opportunity to participate in other water activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking around the island’s picturesque coves.

Dining and Refreshments

Guests can expect a delightful dining experience as part of this full-day tour. The tour includes a freshly prepared lunch, accompanied by refreshing drinks and a tasty dessert.

The meal is served on the schooner during the boat ride to Ilha Grande, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

However, guests are advised to bring their own lunch due to potential delays in the meal service. The dining component provides a satisfying and enjoyable break during the packed itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests are advised to bring their own lunch due to late meal service on the tour. The tour does not include drinks, so guests can bring their own as well.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Stay Longer on the Island?

According to the tour details, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the tour or stay longer on the island. The tour is advertised as a full-day experience with a set itinerary and duration.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but infants must sit on laps. There aren’t any special requirements for children, though some activities like snorkeling may have height/weight limits. Families are welcome, but the long bus rides could be challenging for young kids.

Can I Store My Personal Belongings Securely During the Tour Activities?

The tour doesn’t provide secure storage for personal belongings during activities. Guests are advised to keep valuables with them or leave them at their hotel. There are no dedicated storage facilities available on the tour.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes transportation, guide, boat ride, lunch, and some gear. However, there may be additional costs for optional activities like snorkel equipment rental or purchasing photos. Guests should check for any extra fees not covered in the base price.