Day Tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande

A Full Day of Natural Beauty and Relaxation: Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Brazil’s coastal paradise, this day tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande offers a memorable way to see some of Rio de Janeiro’s most stunning islands. For around $81.42 per person, you’ll spend approximately 14 hours exploring 365 islands in Angra dos Reis and wandering Ilha Grande, a haven famous for its tranquil beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The tour departs early morning, around 7:00 am, and includes boat rides, guided commentary, and a delicious lunch, making it a well-rounded experience for those eager to combine scenic views with authentic local flavor.

What we love most about this itinerary is the variety of stops. From the quiet, rocky Aracatibinha Beach to the lively Praia de Japariz, each location offers a different vibe—whether you’re looking to relax, explore history, or snorkel in vivid waters. The greenish Lagoa Verde and the famous Lagoa Azul pools are standout highlights that promise unforgettable photo ops and peaceful moments. Plus, the guides’ multilingual skills and the well-managed boat fleet help ensure a smooth, safe journey.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. Some reviews highlight traffic challenges, especially on the way back to Rio, which can affect timing. Also, since the tour is shared, it might feel crowded for some, especially during peak seasons. Still, for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery and diverse stops in one day, this experience is likely to deliver more than its modest price suggests.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, beaches, and small island communities. If you’re flexible with crowds and weather, and eager to see a slice of tropical Brazil without spending days on separate trips, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Enjoy everything from tranquil beaches to historical sites and scenic lagoons.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price covers transportation, guide, boat rides, and lunch.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit small communities and explore natural pools and coves.
• Guides: Multilingual guides provide insightful commentary.
• Timing: Early start with a long but rewarding day.
• Crowd Consideration: Expect shared tours, sometimes with many participants.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins bright and early at Cais de Santa Luzia in Angra dos Reis—considered the traditional launch point for boat excursions. From here, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you through Rio’s neighborhoods, heading toward the coast. While the journey may take around three hours, the scenic drive offers glimpses of Rio’s outskirts and the coastline, setting the tone for the day ahead.

First Stop: Aracatibinha Beach

The trip kicks off with a visit to Aracatibinha Beach, a tiny, quiet cove surrounded by large rocks and native forest. Here, you’ll find a golden sandy strip and calm, transparent waters—perfect for a quick swim or just soaking in the tranquility. As a lesser-known spot, it often flies under the radar, giving you a more exclusive feel. Reviewers praise its peaceful vibe, with one noting it’s “a great place to relax and take a delicious bath in the sea.” Since it’s small, it’s a quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression of untouched beauty.

Freguesia de Santana: A Glimpse of History

Next, the tour heads to Freguesia de Santana, a small community on Ilha Grande with historical roots. Once a bustling settlement, today it’s largely quiet but rich in history—think remnants of old mansions, abandoned cemeteries, and the 1843-built Church of Santana. A walk around gives travelers a feel for the island’s past life, with some reviews mentioning its “fascinating remnants” and the fact that only a handful of residents remain. It’s an intriguing stop that combines scenic views with a touch of Brazil’s colonial past.

Praia de Japariz: A Community Favorite

A highlight for many, Praia de Japariz is a lively, inhabited beach known for its fishermen community. Tourists typically spend about an hour here, enjoying the authentic local atmosphere and beautiful shoreline. It’s a perfect spot for snacks, relaxing, or swimming, and many reviews mention its “beautiful” and “peaceful” vibe, making it an ideal break from the boat.

Lagoa Verde: The Green Lagoon

Moving on, the Lagoa Verde offers a unique experience. Known for its shallow, calm waters with a distinct green hue, it is part of the northwest coast of Ilha Grande. Its coral formations and marine life are special, providing a rare glimpse into vibrant underwater ecosystems in a tranquil setting. When the tide is at normal or high levels, the islet is separated, but at low tide, a narrow strip of sand connects them, adding to the magic. Travelers often mention its “spectacular” views and “surprising” marine life.

Lagoa Azul: The Iconic Pool

One of the most photographed spots on Ilha Grande, Lagoa Azul lives up to its name with blue waters and a white sandy bottom. This natural pool is perfect for snorkeling and relaxing, with some reviewers noting that it’s “inspired by a movie,” which adds a bit of Hollywood flair to your tropical day. The quiet, shallow waters provide a safe environment for families or anyone wanting to just float and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Practical Details: What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The tour covers all transportation, including a boat ride with life vests provided free of charge—a comfort for those wary of the open water. An experienced guide will accompany you, offering insights in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, helping you understand the significance of each stop and making sure your questions are answered.

Lunch is included, typically featuring local fare, giving a taste of regional cuisine. The tour also includes a transfer from your Rio hotel or pickup point, although exact details depend on your location.

What isn’t included are drinks and desserts, so if you want a cold soda or local snack, bring some cash along. Also, snorkel equipment is available for rent, but at an extra cost, R$30, so if underwater exploration is your thing, plan accordingly.

The tour operates rain or shine, which means it’s robust against weather—an important point since heavy rain might alter your experience but won’t cancel it outright. The environmental fee of R$10.50 is paid on the day, supporting local conservation efforts and community livelihoods.

Group Size and Safety

You can expect a shared tour with up to 45 participants, which can feel busy, especially during peak season. The boat fleet is chosen carefully each day, ensuring safety and comfort, with capacity options ranging from 50 to 90 passengers depending on demand.

Transportation Logistics

The departure begins with collection from various neighborhoods, including Leblon and Lapa, with possible adjustments based on traffic conditions—common in Rio during busy seasons. While the journey might be long due to traffic, the focus remains on maximizing time on the islands once you arrive.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the amazing scenery and well-organized guides. One traveler praised the beautiful color of the water and the pleasure of spotting numerous fish at Lagoa Azul. Conversely, a few critics mention logistical issues such as traffic delays and larger-than-expected crowds.

Some critics point out that the tour might not be suited for those seeking a private or exclusive experience. For example, one reviewer noted that the boat felt crowded, with over 120 people on board despite the advertised capacity of 45, and that some stops felt rushed.

On the positive side, numerous travelers commend the friendly, multilingual guides who add value by explaining the significance of each site. The value for money is generally deemed fair, considering the inclusions of boat rides, lunch, and guided commentary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple beaches and islands in one day. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and exploring small communities, you’ll appreciate the variety packed into this tour.

However, if you prefer a more private, relaxed experience or dislike large group tours, you might find the crowds overwhelming. The tour suits those ready for a full day of outdoor exploration with a good balance of nature, history, and local culture.

The Sum Up

This boat tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande offers a cost-effective way to see some of Brazil’s most beautiful coastal spots. You’ll visit hidden beaches, vibrant lagoons, and historic sites, all within a well-organized daily schedule that includes transportation, meals, and guided commentary.

While traffic delays and crowd levels can be a concern, these are balanced by the breathtaking scenery and authentic small community visits. The guides’ multilingual skills and quality boat fleet help make the journey safe and enjoyable, especially for first-time visitors.

In essence, this tour is a great choice for curious travelers who want to sample the natural beauty of the Rio coastline without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for day-trippers looking for a taste of island life, scenic views, and memorable swimming spots.

FAQs

• Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup, transfer by vehicle, and boat rides throughout the day.
• How long does the tour last? Approximately 14 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning later in the afternoon.
• Are meals provided? Yes, a lunch is included in the price.
• Are snacks or drinks included? No, snacks and drinks are not included, so bring some cash if you’d like extras.
• Is snorkeling equipment available? Yes, for rent at R$30, but it’s not included in the tour price.
• What is the group size? The tour typically hosts up to 45 travelers, making it a lively, shared experience.
• Is the tour suitable for families? Generally yes, especially for those comfortable with long days and boat rides, but keep an eye on children’s safety around water.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, water, cash for extras, and possibly a towel for swimming.

This full-day adventure balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun, making it a worthwhile outing for those wanting an authentic taste of Rio’s island paradise. Just remember to bring patience along with your camera — and prepare for a day full of memorable sights and sounds.