Paraty

Scenic view of a historic church and colonial architecture in Paraty, Brazil during sunset.
Gabriel Zachi, Pexels

Paraty offers a captivating blend of preserved colonial history and lush natural landscapes. Visitors can explore charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture, or venture out to pristine beaches, numerous islands, and refreshing waterfalls nestled within the surrounding Atlantic Forest.

The Historic Center, particularly Praça da Matriz (Main Square), provides a vibrant setting for socializing with its variety of restaurants, bars, live music, and open capoeira sessions. Hostels in Paraty also cater to solo travelers looking to connect with others.

Top 5 Things to do in Paraty

Visitors can immerse themselves in Paraty's colonial charm, explore pristine islands and beaches, discover lush waterfalls and cachaça distilleries, and engage in various water-based adventures.

1. Exploring the Historic Center

Wandering through the car-free, cobblestone streets of Paraty's Historic Center feels like stepping back in time. One can admire the well-preserved colonial architecture, with its whitewashed walls and vibrant doors. The area is home to charming shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, providing opportunities to engage with local culture. During full moons, high tides sometimes cause the streets to flood, creating picturesque reflections of the historic buildings.

Cost: Exploring independently is free. Guided walking tours are available, with shared options typically costing between US$13 and US$51 (approximately R$65-R$255) per person. Private tours can be arranged starting from R$150 (approximately US$30) per person. Free walking tours also operate on a tip-based system.

Transport: The Historic Center is compact and best explored on foot. Most accommodations are within walking distance. Cars are not permitted in this area.

2. Island Hopping and Beach Tours

Discover Paraty's stunning bay, which is dotted with over 60 islands and more than 100 secluded beaches, many only accessible by boat. Tours typically include stops at idyllic locations like Praia Vermelha, Ilha Comprida, and Ilha do Coco, providing ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters. Both group schooner trips and private speedboat charters are available, offering different levels of comfort and exclusivity.

Cost: Group boat tours often range from US$30 to US$70 (approximately R$150-R$350) per person. Private boat tours, which offer more flexibility in itinerary, can start from R$900 to R$1500 (approximately US$180-US$300) per group, or from US$138 to US$501 for various private packages.

Transport: Boats depart regularly from the main pier located in the Historic Center of Paraty.

3. Waterfalls and Cachaça Distillery Tour (Jeep Tour)

Venture into the lush Atlantic Forest of Serra da Bocaina National Park on a Jeep tour to explore refreshing waterfalls and traditional cachaça distilleries. Popular stops include Cachoeira do Tobogã, a natural rock slide, and Poço do Tarzan, known for its natural pools ideal for swimming. Visitors can also tour artisanal distilleries like Engenho D'Ouro or Paratiana to learn about Brazil's national spirit, cachaça, and enjoy tastings.

Cost: Group Jeep tours combining waterfalls and distilleries generally cost from US$30 to US$46 (approximately R$150-R$230) per person for a 5-6 hour trip. Private Jeep tours vary, with prices starting from US$407 to US$627 (approximately R$2035-R$3135) per group.

Transport: Jeep tours typically depart from tour agencies or designated pick-up points in central Paraty. For independent travel, public buses run from Paraty bus station to Penha (near Tobogã waterfall) for about R$5 (approximately US$1). Taxis are also available.

4. Day Trip to Trindade Village and Beaches

A visit to Trindade, a charming fishing village located south of Paraty, offers access to several beautiful beaches. Key highlights include Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and the natural swimming pool, Cachadaço Natural Pool. The village itself provides a relaxed atmosphere with local cafes and restaurants. Some beaches are reached by short hikes or local boat rides.

Cost: A public bus from Paraty's bus station to Trindade costs approximately R$5 (approximately US$1) each way. Small local boats to reach specific beaches within Trindade, like Cachadaço Natural Pool, cost around R$5-10 (approximately US$1-2).

Transport: Regular public buses depart from the Paraty bus station, taking 40 minutes to 1 hour to reach Trindade. Taxis are also an option.

5. Kayaking in Saco do Mamanguá and Mangroves

Experience the tranquil beauty of Saco do Mamanguá, often referred to as Brazil's only tropical fjord, through a kayaking excursion. This activity offers an eco-friendly way to explore serene waters, unique mangrove forests, secluded beaches, and small islands. Paddling allows for close encounters with local wildlife and provides a peaceful escape with stunning natural scenery. One can also opt for a hike up Pico do Pão de Açúcar within Saco do Mamanguá for breathtaking panoramic views.

Cost: Guided kayaking tours, which may include visits to mangroves and beaches, range from US$32 to US$94 (approximately R$160-R$470) per person. For Saco do Mamanguá specifically, boat tours often combine with hiking, costing around US$55 (approximately R$275) for a shared tour.

Transport: Kayaking tours often depart directly from the pier in Paraty's center or nearby beaches. For Saco do Mamanguá, one can take a boat from Paraty or a bus/taxi to Paraty-Mirim (a 30-minute drive from Paraty center), then hire a taxi boat to reach the bay.

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