Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike (2 Days)

Nestled within the lush Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil lies the captivating Saco Bravo Waterfall, the crown jewel of a two-day hiking adventure. Trekkers embark on a scenic journey through picturesque trails and pristine beaches, culminating in a night’s stay at a cozy cabin amidst serene landscapes. But the real highlight awaits on the second day, as hikers explore the stunning cascades of Saco Bravo and witness nature’s raw power up close. With wildlife sightings and breathtaking vistas along the way, this hike promises an unforgettable immersion in the heart of Brazil’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• Two-day hike through the Atlantic Rainforest in Paraty, Brazil, with an overnight stay in a cabin and a visit to the Saco Bravo Waterfall.
• Day 1 includes a bus ride to the trailhead, a forest trek with wildlife spotting, and an overnight stay in a cozy cabin.
• Day 2 features an early morning hike to the Saco Bravo Waterfall, a serene environment with towering cliffs and cascading waters.
• The hike is guided by an English/Portuguese-speaking professional with first aid training, and includes meals and accommodation.
• The hike is moderately difficult, with approx. 4 hours of walking per day, and requires a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Paraty Destination Overview

Paraty, a picturesque coastal town in Brazil, is a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into the country’s rich history and natural wonders.

Nestled between the lush Atlantic Rainforest and the sparkling waters of the Bay of Ilha Grande, Paraty’s well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant cultural events, and easy access to outdoor adventures make it a prime spot for exploring.

From the charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings to the nearby hiking trails and pristine beaches, Paraty offers a diverse array of experiences that showcase the best of Brazil’s natural and cultural heritage.

Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike Itinerary

The two-day Saco Bravo Waterfall hike takes adventurers on an off-the-beaten-path journey through the lush Atlantic Rainforest, culminating in a visit to the captivating Saco Bravo Waterfall and the charming Ponta Negra fishing village. On the first day, hikers will take a bus from Paraty to the trailhead in Laranjeiras, then trek through forest trails connecting scenic beaches like Sono, Antigos, and Ponta Negra, where they’ll spend the night in a cabin. The second day begins with an early morning hike to the Saco Bravo Waterfall, followed by relaxation time in Ponta Negra before returning to Paraty via taxi boat.

Day	Activities
1	Bus from Paraty to trailhead in Laranjeiras Hike through forest trails connecting beaches Overnight in cabin accommodation at Ponta Negra
2	Early morning hike to Saco Bravo Waterfall Relaxation time at Ponta Negra Return via taxi boat to trailhead, ending in Paraty

Day 1: Laranjeiras to Ponta Negra

What begins the Saco Bravo Waterfall hike is a bus ride from Paraty to the trailhead in Laranjeiras.

From there, the adventure truly begins as hikers trek through forest trails connecting the beaches of Sono, Antigos, and Ponta Negra.

Along the way, they’ll encounter:

1. Lush Atlantic Rainforest landscapes
2. Opportunities to spot wildlife like jaguars, sloths, parrots, and spider monkeys
3. The charming fishing village of Ponta Negra, where hikers will spend the night in a cozy cabin with a bathroom and hot water shower.

This first day sets the stage for the highlight of the hike – the breathtaking Saco Bravo Waterfall, which awaits on the following day.

Day 2: Saco Bravo Waterfall Exploration

After spending a restful night in the cabin accommodation at Ponta Negra, the group rises early to embark on the highlight of the hike – the trek to the breathtaking Saco Bravo Waterfall. The path winds through the lush Atlantic Rainforest, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife like jaguars, sloths, and spider monkeys. Upon reaching the waterfall, hikers are rewarded with a serene haven surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waters. Following the waterfall exploration, the group returns to Ponta Negra for some final relaxation time before the journey back to Paraty.

Wildlife Sightings
Jaguars
Sloths
Spider Monkeys

Accommodation and Dining Inclusions

During the Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike, the accommodation and dining inclusions provide a comfortable and satisfying experience for participants. Hikers will overnight in a cabin with private bathroom facilities, including a toilet and hot water shower.

The package includes 1 evening meal and 1 breakfast, ensuring travelers are well-nourished for their adventure.

Plus, the tour provides:

1. An English/Portuguese-speaking guide with remote first aid training.
2. Bag transportation by boat, available for purchase.
3. Gratuities covered in the overall price.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike is priced starting from $310.00, with the final cost varying based on group size.

This fee covers overnight accommodation in a cabin with a bathroom, one evening meal and one breakfast, as well as an English/Portuguese speaking guide with remote first aid training.

Bag transportation by boat is also included if desired.

The hike can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures guests can plan with confidence.

Meeting and Departure Details

Guests meet for the Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike at the Mani-Tour counter in the Paraty bus station, which is operated by the Colitur bus company.

The tour departs promptly at 9:00 AM. The return point is the same as the meeting location, where the hike concludes around 4:00 PM.

The key details are:

1. Meeting Point: Mani-Tour, Paraty bus station (Colitur bus company counter)
2. Departure Time: 09:00 AM
3. End Point: Same as meeting point, around 4:00 PM

Guests are advised to arrive on time to ensure a smooth start to the two-day adventure.

Difficulty, Accessibility, and Transportation

The difficulty level of the Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike is moderate, with approximately 4 hours of walking per day, including some hills and uneven surfaces.

The hike isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a minimum of 2 people is required per booking. Infants must sit on laps during transportation.

However, the hike is conveniently located near public transportation options, making it accessible for a wider range of travelers.

The challenging yet rewarding nature of the hike allows visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of the Atlantic Rainforest and the unique cultural experiences of the Ponta Negra fishing village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?

Yes, hikers are welcome to bring their own snacks and food on the hike. The package doesn’t include all meals, so bringing supplemental items is recommended to fuel the journey through the Atlantic Rainforest.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Nearby in Case of Emergencies?

The tour operator provides a guide with remote first aid training, and there are emergency services available in nearby Paraty, the starting and ending point of the hike. Participants should still take standard safety precautions when hiking in a remote area.

What Should I Pack for the Hike to Be Prepared?

One should pack hiking boots, a lightweight rain jacket, snacks, plenty of water, sun protection, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. Plus, bring a camera to capture the scenic vistas and wildlife encountered during the hike.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ponta Negra After the Hike?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Ponta Negra after the hike. The itinerary allows for free time at Ponta Negra on the second day, so guests can choose to remain there and depart at their own convenience.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Hiking With Children?

The experience is not recommended for infants, though children aged 8 and up can participate with close adult supervision. Hiking poles, snacks, and extra water are advised for families with young adventurers.

Recap

The Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike offers an immersive two-day adventure through Brazil’s enchanting Atlantic Rainforest. Hikers can expect a scenic bus ride, picturesque trails, wildlife sightings, and the stunning Saco Bravo Waterfall. With cozy cabin accommodation and seamless transportation, this hike provides an unforgettable nature experience, making it a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Paraty.