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

Exploring the Full Day Tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande

If you’re visiting Rio de Janeiro and craving a taste of Brazil’s most beautiful islands, this full-day tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande offers a compelling mix of scenic boat rides, tranquil beaches, and marine life encounters. For $78 per person, you’ll spend roughly 14 hours immersed in some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Brazil’s Costa Verde. The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, a boat trip, and a lunch, making it a convenient and fairly priced way to see this tropical paradise.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, the variety of stops—from Blue Lagoon’s crystalline waters to quiet beaches like Freguesia de Santana—and second, the professional crew and guide, who are often praised for making the day enjoyable even when the logistics aren’t perfect. That said, a possible drawback is the large group size and busy schedule, which can sometimes lead to overcrowding and rushed moments.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple islands in one day, those looking for great value with included transport and food, or anyone wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with long bus rides and lively boat scenes, this could be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, guide, boat ride, and lunch for a straightforward, all-in-one experience.
• Stunning stops like Blue Lagoon and quiet beaches offer excellent opportunities for swimming and photography.
• Large group size can lead to crowded conditions, especially on boats and buses.
• Tour guides are often described as professional and friendly, adding to the overall experience.
• The lunch is a simple but satisfying buffet, though some reviews mention it could be better.
• Weather is a factor—the tour runs rain or shine, so preparation for the weather is recommended.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins early at Cais de Santa Luzia in Angra dos Reis, which captures the essence of local fishing culture with its colorful boats and lively harbor scenes. This spot offers a scenic gateway and a great photo op, especially in the late afternoon light. From there, the 14-hour excursion kicks off with a bus ride that takes about up to 2 hours from Rio—an important consideration for those prone to travel fatigue or with limited patience for long journeys.

Some reviews mention the bus ride can be lengthy (up to 5 hours roundtrip), especially during peak season or heavy traffic. It’s worth noting that the transportation is included, but the comfort level can vary—passengers have described it as a bit crowded and sometimes uncomfortable, especially with the heat or if buses are not well-air-conditioned.

The Itinerary: What’s on Offer

Freguesia de Santana Beach

Our first stop is a calm, medium-length beach mainly frequented by local fishermen. With golden sand and transparent waters, it’s perfect for a quick rest or some peaceful photos. Visitors often find this less crowded—an excellent choice for those wanting a little quiet before the boat adventure.

Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon)

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon, with its Caribbean-like waters. Here, snorkelers and swimmers delight in the vibrant marine life and crystal clear environment. One review highlighted that fish are easily visible, thanks to the crew feeding them to attract marine creatures, making it a good spot for novice snorkelers.

Aracatibinha Beach and Green Lagoon

Next, the tour takes you to a small, cozy beach called Aracatibinha, surrounded by large rocks and native forest. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing on the sand or dipping into calm, transparent waters. The Green Lagoon, often described as a “natural aquarium,” offers an incredible chance for swimming with sea turtles, mollusks, and corals. Provided the luck of good timing, you’ll see marine fauna in their natural habitat, an experience that many reviewers appreciated.

Praia de Japariz and Lunch

The final stop is a charming beach called Japariz, known for its restaurant with a menu passed directly to the boat. Here, a buffet with fried fish, chicken, rice, beans, salads, and pasta awaits. Several reviews mention the lunch as simple but satisfying, though not gourmet—be prepared for a basic buffet. Some travelers did wish for better food, but it’s a convenient way to refuel without leaving the beach.

The Boat Experience

Onboard, the schooner provides a scenic, leisurely ride through shades of blue and green, with coral reefs and marine fauna visible from the deck. You’ll get chances for swimming, photo-taking, and simply enjoying the breezy coastlines. Many reviews praise the friendly crew for ensuring everyone has a good time, though some mention overcrowding, especially during peak season.

The boat’s size varies depending on demand, with capacity for 50 to 90 passengers. During busy times, the large groups can feel crowded, and moving around on the boat might be a challenge. Still, the professional crew strives to keep everyone comfortable and entertained.

The Realities: What You Should Know

The Upsides

The tour offers fantastic value with transport, guide, boat ride, and lunch included. Many travelers mention the stunning scenery and well-organized guides as highlights. The diversity of stops, from quiet beaches to marine parks, means you get a well-rounded day that combines relaxation and adventure.

The Challenges

Some reviews bring up overcrowding—both on the buses and boats—which can diminish the comfort, especially during peak season. The lunch, while filling, has been described as nothing special, and some travelers wish for more variety or better quality. The long transit times are another consideration; you’ll spend a good portion of the day in transit, so patience is key.

Weather and Rain Policy

The tour operates rain or shine. So, if you’re hoping for perfect weather, be prepared for the possibility of rain, which may slightly affect your experience, especially at outdoor stops like beaches.

Customer Feedback: Real Perspectives

• Positive: Many respondents enjoy the friendly crew and beautiful scenery. One reviewer called it an “awesome experience” and “totally recommended”.
• Constructive Criticism: Others found the large crowds and long bus rides tiring, with some feeling the itinerary was rushed or the lunch disappointing. One even describes the experience as chaotic, especially during busy seasons.

Who Will Like This Tour?

This trip is best for those who prioritize seeing multiple islands and beaches in one day at a reasonable price. It’s suitable if you’re comfortable with group settings and long travel days. If you enjoy guided outings with a social atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, this tour can be a highlight of your trip. However, if you’re looking for secluded beaches or a laid-back experience, you might find the bustling environment less appealing.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a cost-effective way to explore some of Brazil’s most captivating islands and beaches, with many highlights for lovers of scenic boat rides and marine life. The inclusion of transport, guide, and lunch makes it a practical choice for travelers who want a full day of adventure without complicated planning.

While the large groups and busy schedule can be drawbacks, the professional crew and beautiful stops often help make up for it. Expect a fun, lively atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photos, and learning about the local environment.

If you’re adventurous, okay with long transit times, and eager to see multiple islands in one go, this tour can deliver a memorable experience. However, if your ideal day involves quiet beaches and personalized service, you might prefer more secluded options or private tours.

Ultimately, this tour balances value and spectacle with its variable crowd size and simple lunch. It’s perfect for budget-minded travelers who want to pack a lot into a single day—and don’t mind a bit of hustle along the way.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation by bus, an expert bilingual guide, a boat ride, and a lunch. Drinks, snorkeling equipment, and additional food are not included.

How long is the bus ride from Rio?
The bus ride can take up to 2 hours each way, with some reviews indicating longer journeys during peak season, possibly around 5 hours total for roundtrip travel.

What stops are on the itinerary?
Stops include Freguesia de Santana Beach, Blue Lagoon, Aracatibinha Beach, Green Lagoon, and Praia de Japariz for lunch. Each offers different experiences, from relaxing beaches to marine snorkeling.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the family-friendly beaches and marine activities could suit children, but overcrowding and long transit times may be less comfortable for very young kids.

What about the group size?
The tour can host up to 45 travelers, but during busy periods, there could be more than 150 people on the boat and in transit, leading to crowded conditions.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, but later cancellations are not refunded.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How is the lunch?
The buffet includes fried fish, chicken, rice, beans, salads, and pasta. Some reviews find it nothing special but adequate for a day of sightseeing.

Are there optional activities?
Snorkeling gear isn’t included but can be rented (some reviews mention the crew feeding fish to attract marine life).

Is pickup at my hotel available?
Pickup is at a central location, not hotel-to-hotel. Travelers should be ready by 6:30 am for the early departure.

Whether you’re after a full day of island-hopping adventure or simply want to enjoy some of Brazil’s most scenic waters, this tour offers a robust and lively experience — perfect for those who enjoy activities, socializing, and sea vistas. Just remember, with large groups and busy environments, a bit of patience and flexibility will help make your day truly memorable.