Ilha Grande Day Trip From Rio De Janeiro

Unlock the secrets of Ilha Grande's stunning coastal landscapes on a guided boat tour from Rio de Janeiro, where you'll discover idyllic islands and azure waters.

Exploring the stunning coastal landscapes of Brazil’s Ilha Grande is a must-do for visitors to Rio de Janeiro. This full-day adventure takes travelers on a guided boat tour through the Bay of Angra dos Reis, where they’ll discover idyllic islands, swim in azure waters, and enjoy the region’s natural beauty. With round-trip transportation and a delicious lunch included, it’s an effortless way to escape the city and experience one of Brazil’s hidden gems.

About Your Stay

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  • A full-day adventure from Rio de Janeiro to explore the stunning Bay of Angra dos Reis, including the islands of Ilha Grande, Ilha de Cataguases, and Lagoa Azul.
  • Includes a guided boat tour, swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities, along with a provided lunch and roundtrip transport from Rio.
  • Itinerary features a 1-hour stop at Ilha Grande, a 30-minute stop at Ilha de Cataguases, and a 40-minute visit to the renowned diving spot of Lagoa Azul.
  • Suitable for ages 10 and above, but not wheelchair-accessible, with a marine boarding fee of 10 BRL to budget for.
  • Reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on the beautiful locations but criticisms about long wait times and organizational issues, which the operator acknowledges and aims to improve.

Overview of the Ilha Grande Day Trip

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The Ilha Grande Day Trip offers travelers a full-day adventure from Rio de Janeiro to explore the stunning Bay of Angra dos Reis.

Explore the stunning Bay of Angra dos Reis on a full-day adventure from Rio de Janeiro with the Ilha Grande Day Trip.

Visitors can experience over 365 islands, including the famous Ilha Grande, Ilha de Cataguases, and Lagoa Azul. The itinerary includes swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and hiking.

Lunch and roundtrip transport from Rio are provided, along with a licensed bilingual guide. The trip is suitable for those aged 10 and above, but not wheelchair-accessible.

While reviews are mixed, the operator emphasizes their commitment to improving service quality during peak times.

Itinerary and Highlights

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Morning pickup from hotels in Rio’s southern tourist zones (not available for Barra, Recreio, São Conrado, and Santa Tereza) kicks off the Ilha Grande Day Trip.

After the approximate 2-hour drive to Angra dos Reis, the boat tour begins. Key stops include the famous Ilha Grande, known for its crystal-clear waters and beaches, with 1 hour to explore.

Next, discover the unique topography of Ilha de Cataguases for 30 minutes, followed by the renowned diving spot of Lagoa Azul, home to diverse marine life, for 40 minutes.

The tour also visits Freguesia de Santana and Praia de Japariz.

Activities and Experiences

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Though the Ilha Grande Day Trip offers a variety of activities, the main draws are the opportunities to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and hike. The crystal-clear waters of Ilha Grande and Lagoa Azul beckon for refreshing dips and snorkeling adventures to observe the diverse marine life. For those seeking a more active experience, hiking trails on the islands provide stunning views and a chance to explore the lush landscapes.

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Swimming | Cool off in the inviting azure waters |

| Sunbathing | Relax on the picturesque beaches |

| Snorkeling | Discover the vibrant underwater world |

| Hiking | Admire the natural beauty from trails |

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the Ilha Grande Day Trip, the package includes several key services and amenities. The tour provides roundtrip hotel pickup and drop-off from Rio’s southern tourist zones, as well as a guided boat tour to explore the islands.

Lunch is also included in the price. However, the package excludes gratuities and any drinks beyond what’s provided. Travelers should also budget for a 10 BRL marine boarding fee.

Traveler Information

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The Ilha Grande Day Trip is suitable for travelers aged 10 years and older, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Visitors should come prepared with light snacks, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The tour is subject to weather conditions, and the operator offers rescheduling or refund options if it’s canceled due to poor weather.

The maximum group size is 120 travelers, so guests can expect a lively experience exploring the islands and their diverse marine life.

With a maximum group size of 120, guests can expect a vibrant adventure exploring Ilha Grande’s diverse marine ecosystems.

While reviews are mixed, the operator acknowledges past challenges and is committed to improving the overall quality of the service.

Reviews and Feedback

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The Ilha Grande Day Trip has received mixed reviews, with a rating of 3.2 based on 15 reviews.

Positive comments highlight the trip’s beautiful locations and efficient pickup/drop-off. However, some travelers have criticized the long wait times, organizational issues, and poor boat conditions.

The operator acknowledges these challenges, especially during peak times, and emphasizes their commitment to improving service quality.

Booking and Reservation

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How can travelers book the Ilha Grande Day Trip?

The day trip can be booked directly through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team. The booking process is straightforward and offers several convenient options:

  • Online booking through the operator’s website, allowing travelers to select their preferred date and pay securely.

  • Telephone reservations by calling the operator’s customer service number.

  • Booking through third-party travel websites and platforms.

  • Hotel concierge services that can assist with arranging the day trip.

  • Group discounts are available for parties of 4 or more.

Getting to Ilha Grande

Once travelers have booked their Ilha Grande day trip, the next step is getting to the island. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from hotels in Rio’s southern tourist zones.

After a 2-hour drive to Angra dos Reis, the boat tour begins. Travelers will visit several islands, including the famous Ilha Grande with its crystal-clear waters and beaches. Other stops include Ilha de Cataguases, Lagoa Azul, and Freguesia de Santana.

The tour provides a licensed bilingual guide, but visitors should bring any necessary personal items like sunscreen and insect repellent. Weather conditions may affect the itinerary, so flexibility is advised.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Book the Trip at the Last Minute?

You can book the trip at the last minute, but it’s not recommended. Last-minute bookings may be subject to limited availability and higher prices. It’s best to plan and book the trip in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Is the Boat Tour in a Group or Private?

The boat tour is a group activity, not private. It can accommodate up to 120 travelers at a time as part of the day trip to explore the islands near Ilha Grande.

Are Cameras and Phones Allowed on the Boat?

Guests are generally allowed to bring cameras and phones on the boat. However, it’s recommended to keep valuables secure and avoid taking them in the water to prevent loss or damage. The operator encourages enjoying the scenery and experiences without excessive photo-taking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the Ilha Grande day trip. The tour includes lunch, but you may want to pack extra provisions to have throughout the day’s activities. Bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed.

Is There an Option to Stay Overnight on Ilha Grande?

The Ilha Grande day trip doesn’t include an option to stay overnight on the island. The tour is a full-day experience, with transport to and from Rio de Janeiro. Overnight stays would require separate arrangements.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Ilha Grande Day Trip from Rio de Janeiro is an excellent way to explore Brazil’s stunning coastal landscapes. With a guided boat tour, plenty of activities, and round-trip transport, it offers a hassle-free and memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or breathtaking scenery, this day trip is a fantastic choice for anyone visiting Rio de Janeiro.