If you’re dreaming of spending a day soaking in the beauty of Brazil’s coastline, this full-day tour to Angra dos Reis might catch your eye. For around $61 per person, you’ll get a guided boat trip to some of the most photogenic islands and beaches, topped off with a buffet lunch and a chance to swim in the famously clear waters of Lagoa Azul. Starting early from Rio de Janeiro, the trip takes about 12 hours, including transport, so it’s not for the faint of heart or those short on time.
What makes this tour appealing? First, we love the opportunity to explore multiple islands and beaches in one day—such as Ilha de Cataguases, Freguesia de Santana, and Praia de Japariz—without the hassle of planning each stop individually. The boat ride itself offers beautiful scenery and relaxing swims in Lagoa Azul, a highlight for many travelers. Second, the on-land buffet lunch provides a pleasant break, offering local flavors after a day of sightseeing on the water.
However, a word of caution: the nearly six hours of bus travel each way can be tiring, especially if your focus is on enjoying the islands rather than the ride. Also, some travelers noted that lunch is not served on the boat, but rather at a land-based restaurant at 4 pm, which might leave you hungry during the day’s boat stops. This tour tends to suit those who love scenic boat trips and don’t mind long transit times—perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see the sights without fuss.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: Enjoy crystal-clear waters and picturesque islands.
- Comprehensive experience: Combines boat rides, island visits, swimming, and a land-based lunch.
- Long transit: Nearly 6 hours of bus travel each way, so be prepared for a full day.
- Authentic experience: Learn about local culture and history from a bilingual guide.
- Value for money: For $61, you get a full-day adventure with transportation, lunch, and guided tours.
- Mixed reviews: Some travelers find the experience rewarding, but others feel it’s misrepresented or too long.
In-Depth Review of the Angra dos Reis Full-Day Tour
If you’re planning a day trip from Rio de Janeiro, this tour offers a chance to see some of Brazil’s most beautiful coastal scenery without the hassle of organizing transportation and boat hire yourself. We’ll break down what you can realistically expect and point out some considerations based on real traveler feedback.
Planning more time in Angra Dos Reis? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What’s Included and What’s Not
Your day begins with hotel pickup in Rio de Janeiro, covering popular neighborhoods like Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, and Centro. For travelers staying in these areas, pickup is convenient, but if you’re elsewhere, it’s worth checking whether there’s an additional fee or alternative meeting point.
From there, it’s roughly a 6-hour bus journey each way. While this may seem excessive, it’s a common feature of day trips to distant regions in Brazil. The bus ride allows you to enjoy the changing scenery of coastal landscapes and lush inland areas, but it’s a long haul—something to consider if you prefer shorter transit times.
Upon arriving at Angra dos Reis, you’ll board a schooner-style boat that whisks you around a handful of islands and beaches. The highlight is a stop at Lagoa Azul, famed for its clear waters ideal for swimming and photos. Here, you’ll have opportunities to swim and relax in pristine surroundings, a move that many find refreshing after hours on the bus.
Next, the boat visits Ilha de Cataguases, Freguesia de Santana, and Praia de Japariz. Each destination offers its unique charm—whether it’s tranquil beaches, scenic views, or inviting waters. These stops are perfect for snorkeling, beach lounging, or snapping pictures.
The Lunch Experience
One common point of confusion is the lunch arrangement. Reviewers have pointed out that lunch is not served on the boat, but rather at a land-based restaurant, usually around 4 pm. This timing can be inconvenient, especially if you’re already hungry after a day in the sun. The included lunch is a buffet, which many travelers appreciate for its variety, but you should expect to pay extra for drinks, as these are not included.
The Overall Experience: What Travelers Say
Many travelers enjoy the beautiful vistas and swimming stops, citing the crystal waters and serene islands as the main highlights. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the boat ride allowed us to see multiple islands in one day,” and appreciated the value of the package.
However, some have expressed disappointment with the trip’s misrepresentation. One review pointed out that the long bus rides are not clearly emphasized in marketing materials, and lunch timing is less than ideal. As the reviewer Elisa put it, “It’s not fair to make fun of people, but I was starving by the time I got my lunch,” highlighting that the timing and logistics could be better communicated.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour
- Bring snacks and water: Since lunch is late and on land, pack some snacks to keep hunger at bay during the boat ride.
- Dress comfortably: Wear lightweight clothes, swimwear, and a hat. Don’t forget sunscreen and a towel.
- Prepare for the weather: This trip involves outdoor activities, so a light jacket or rain gear might be wise.
- Manage expectations: If you’re expecting a short, relaxing day, this might not be it—the long transit time can be tiring, but the scenery makes up for it.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see multiple islands in a day and enjoy swimming in beautiful waters. It’s particularly good for those who don’t mind long bus rides and are comfortable with a flexible schedule, especially regarding lunch timing. If your priority is relaxing on quiet beaches without much transit, or if you prefer shorter day trips, consider other options. But if you’re after authentic coastal scenery, lively boat rides, and the chance to explore various islands, this tour offers a solid introduction to Angra dos Reis.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For $61, this tour provides a full day of scenic boat rides, beach access, and a decent buffet lunch—a reasonable price for the experience if you’re prepared for the transit. The crystal-clear waters of Lagoa Azul and the diverse island stops are undoubtedly the main attractions. The long bus trip is a drawback, but many travelers find the scenery and opportunity to swim make it worthwhile.
This trip is best suited for those seeking a structured, guided day in some of Brazil’s most beautiful waters, and who don’t mind spending a significant portion of the day on a bus. It’s a good option for making the most of a short visit to Rio, especially if you’re eager to see beyond the city and experience the coast.
FAQs
How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including pickup, transit, boat rides, and return to Rio.
What is included in the price?
You get round-trip transport, a guided boat tour with swimming stops, and a buffet lunch in a restaurant.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks at lunch are extra, and not included in the tour price.
Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Be prepared for outdoor activities and varying weather.
Is the lunch served on the boat?
No, lunch is served at a land-based restaurant typically around 4 pm, which some travelers find inconvenient.
Can I book the tour if I stay outside the pickup zones?
Yes, but you should check if there’s an additional fee or if there’s a nearby pickup point.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments, given the long bus ride and outdoor activities.
What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.
This tour offers a lively, scenic introduction to Angra dos Reis that’s perfect for travelers eager to combine boat rides, beaches, and Brazilian coastal scenery in one full day. Keep your expectations balanced and pack wisely—your day in paradise can be both fun and memorable.
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