From Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande Day Trip

Exploring the idyllic island of Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro promises a day of natural wonders and aquatic adventures. Travelers can embark on a 12-hour journey, which includes transportation by bus and boat, as well as a guided tour led by a licensed, bilingual expert. Beyond the island’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, the excursion offers opportunities to cruise aboard a schooner and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Whether seeking a respite from the bustling city or an immersion in Ilha Grande’s unspoiled charm, this day trip to the stunning island presents an enticing prospect for those seeking to discover its breathtaking vistas.

Key Points

• A 12-hour day trip from Rio de Janeiro to the picturesque island of Ilha Grande, offering a chance to explore its stunning natural beauty.
• Guided tour with a licensed, bilingual guide, including boat cruises, swimming, snorkeling, and a visit to the renowned Lopes Mendes Beach.
• Round-trip transportation by bus and boat, with an additional navy fee for boarding the boat.
• Opportunity to experience the island’s crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and unspoiled charm.
• A seamless and immersive experience, allowing for a full appreciation of Ilha Grande’s natural splendor.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This day trip from Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the island. It’s a 12-hour journey that includes transportation by bus and boat.

Guests will travel by coach for 3.5 hours each way, then cruise around Ilha Grande on a schooner and long-tail boat. The activities include swimming, snorkeling in the Lagoa Azul, and visiting two spectacular beaches.

The tour includes a licensed, bilingual guide, a boat tour, lunch, a fruit table, and round-trip transportation. Travelers will need to pay a navy fee of around 10 BRL per person to board the boat, and gratuities are optional.

Transportation Details

The transportation for this Ilha Grande day trip from Rio de Janeiro involves both bus and boat. Travelers will take a 3.5-hour bus/coach ride each way to reach the island.

Once there, they’ll embark on a schooner boat cruise and a long-tail boat ride to explore Ilha Grande’s stunning coastline and hidden coves. The boat tour allows guests to swim, dive, and snorkel in the crystal clear waters, including the natural aquarium of Lagoa Azul.

The round-trip transportation is included in the tour price, though the navy fee to board the boat is an additional cost per person.

Aquatic Adventures

Although the bus ride to reach Ilha Grande is lengthy, visitors are well-rewarded once they board the schooner boat for a cruise along the island’s stunning coastline. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island invite guests to take a refreshing swim or try their hand at snorkeling in the natural aquarium of Lagoa Azul.

The schooner provides access to two spectacular beaches, where travelers can relax and soak up the sun. With the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, guests can explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, encountering a world teeming with colorful fish and other aquatic creatures. These aquatic adventures offer a perfect complement to the day’s land-based activities.

Ilha Grande Beaches

Complementing the island’s aquatic adventures, Ilha Grande’s beaches are undoubtedly the main draw for visitors. Boasting pristine, golden sands and crystal-clear waters, the island’s two main beaches are must-see destinations.

Lopes Mendes Beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with a backdrop of lush, verdant hills. Further north, Praia Abraão offers a more lively and developed experience, with waterfront restaurants and facilities.

Whether you’re seeking tranquility or a more vibrant atmosphere, Ilha Grande’s beaches provide the perfect setting to soak up the sun, swim, and simply relax. With their unspoiled charm and breathtaking vistas, these beaches are the ideal complement to the island’s diverse aquatic activities.

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Guided Excursion

A guided excursion to Ilha Grande provides visitors with an opportunity to fully enjoy the island’s natural splendor. The day trip from Rio de Janeiro includes transportation by bus and boat, a licensed and bilingual guide, and a comprehensive itinerary that showcases the island’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

Included	Duration	Highlights
Boat tour	12 hours	Swim and dive
Snorkeling	3.5 hours each way	Snorkel in Lagoa Azul
Lunch	–	Visit two beaches

The guided excursion offers a seamless and immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of Ilha Grande.

Onboard Amenities

Onboard the schooner boat, travelers are treated to a range of amenities that enhance the overall experience. These include:

1. A delectable lunch spread, featuring a variety of local dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.

2. A bountiful fruit table, offering a refreshing selection of tropical fruits to enjoy during the scenic cruise.

3. Optional basic snorkeling equipment, allowing adventurous guests to explore the captivating underwater world of Ilha Grande’s natural aquarium, Lagoa Azul.

These thoughtful inclusions ensure that guests can fully enjoy the beauty of the island, while enjoying the comfort and convenience of the well-appointed boat.

Exclusions and Fees

Though the Ilha Grande day trip includes a wealth of amenities, there are a few additional costs that travelers should be aware of. The most notable is the navy fee, which is approximately 10 BRL per person, required to embark on the boat trip.

Plus, gratuities for the guide and crew are optional but customary. Any other items not explicitly listed as included, such as additional snacks or souvenirs, will also be at the traveler’s own expense.

While these extra fees are relatively minor, it’s important to factor them into the overall budget to avoid any unexpected costs on the day of the excursion.

Preparing for the Trip

Prior to the day trip, travelers should ensure they’ve a few essential items packed and ready. These include:

1. Swimsuit and towel for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.
2. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for exploring the beaches and hiking trails.
3. Sun protection such as sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to shield against the tropical sun.

Plus, it’s recommended to bring a small backpack or day bag to carry personal items, snacks, and water. Travelers should also review the tour inclusions and exclusions to ensure they’ve any necessary items, such as cash for the navy fee or optional equipment rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling equipment for the day trip. The tour includes optional basic snorkeling equipment, but you’re welcome to use your own if you prefer.

Is There an Option to Stay Overnight on Ilha Grande?

No, the Ilha Grande day trip from Rio de Janeiro is a single-day excursion. It doesn’t offer an option to stay overnight on the island. Travelers must return to Rio de Janeiro at the end of the day.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ilha Grande?

The best time to visit Ilha Grande is typically between September and April when the weather is warm and dry. High season is December-February, offering the most pleasant conditions for swimming and outdoor activities.

Can I Skip the Boat Tour and Just Explore the Beaches?

You can skip the boat tour and just explore the beaches on Ilha Grande. However, the boat tour provides a unique perspective and access to areas that can’t be reached on foot, so it’s recommended for a more comprehensive experience.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Trip?

The trip doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It runs daily, so you can join even if you’re the only one booked that day. The group size varies, but the tour will depart as scheduled.

Recap

Exploring the stunning island of Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro promises an unforgettable day filled with natural beauty, aquatic adventures, and guided exploration. Visitors can expect a comprehensive journey, with transportation, a scenic boat cruise, and opportunities to discover the island’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. This day trip is an ideal way to take in Ilha Grande’s unspoiled charm and breathtaking vistas.

You can check if your dates are available here: