A day trip from Rio de Janeiro taking you to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande is a wonderful way to escape the city’s hustle and experience some of Brazil’s most beautiful coastal scenery. For $85, you get roughly 12 hours of adventure, including boat rides, beach relaxing, snorkeling, and a hearty, traditional Brazilian lunch. Led by friendly guides, this tour promises plenty of opportunities to enjoy crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and lively island vibes.

What we love most about this experience is how efficiently it packs in several highlights of the region—visiting multiple beaches, exploring vibrant reefs, and enjoying a local-style meal all in one day. And the fact that transportation, guides, and boat rides are included makes it a convenient way to see the best of Ilha Grande without the hassle of planning each detail ourselves.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite crowded, especially during peak season, and the itinerary might feel rushed to some travelers. If you’re seeking a quiet, leisurely day or expecting a private experience, this could be a consideration. Still, if you’re looking for a high-energy, fun-filled day of island hopping, this tour hits the mark and suits those wanting a taste of Brazil’s famed waters and landscapes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a structured day with a good mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and local food. If you’re comfortable sharing space with a larger group and don’t mind some busy spots, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile way to maximize your time and see multiple highlights in one shot.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Multiple island stops, including beaches, snorkeling spots, and natural pools.
All-Inclusive Feel: Transportation, guides, boat rides, and lunch are included, making it convenient.
Authentic Experience: Opportunities to relax on pristine beaches, spot marine life, and enjoy local cuisine.
Crowd and Weather Considerations: Expect busy spots and potential delays, especially in high season.
Good Value for Money: Given the length and variety of activities, most travelers find this tour offers solid bang for the buck.
Ideal for Active Tourists: Perfect if you enjoy a packed schedule, group activities, and lively boat trips.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

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The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off early—around 7:00 am—with a pickup that can be organized from central Rio locations. The use of a licensed bus ensures safety, but be prepared for some traffic, especially in high season when Rio’s streets get congested. Several reviews mention delays, with one noting a late departure from the initial pickup point—so patience is key. The company handles large groups (up to 45), which helps keep costs reasonable but also means you’ll be sharing the experience with many fellow travelers.

Once aboard the bus, the journey to Angra dos Reis is lively, often passing through different neighborhoods en route to the boat dock. The guides communicate in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Portuguese, which is helpful given the diverse crowd. Before reaching the boat, you’ll go through a brief security and regulatory check to ensure vessel safety—crucial, as the tour operates under strict approval from the Military Navy.

The Boat Ride and First Stops

The highlight is the schooner ride—a traditional Brazilian boat that offers plenty of open-air space for photos, socializing, or simply soaking in the views. The boat is equipped with flotation devices and noodles, though recreational life jackets are available for rent at a modest R$35.

Your first stop is Freguesia de Santana Beach, a tranquil spot favored by local fishermen, offering calm, transparent waters perfect for swimming before the larger crowds arrive. The beauty of this stretch is that it’s less crowded, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak up the scenery.

Next, you’ll explore the Lagoa Verde, an incredible underwater reef teeming with marine life—think colorful fish, mollusks, corals, and even sea turtles (if luck’s on your side). Multiple reviews mention snorkeling here as a highlight, with one saying, “In this incredible underwater reef, we can admire a diversity of marine creatures, such as fish, molluscs, corals and a variety of rocks and stones.” If you love snorkeling or simply want a swim in clear waters, this spot won’t disappoint.

Island Hopping and Beach Time

The next stop, Aracatibinha Beach, is a smaller, peaceful beach framed by impressive rocks and native vegetation. The calm, clear waters invite you to relax, sunbathe, or wade in the gentle surf. Many appreciate the chance to escape crowds here, with one reviewer describing it as perfect for those seeking “absolute relaxation.”

Around midday, the tour pauses for lunch at Praia de Japariz, where you can choose from a self-service buffet featuring fried fish, chicken, rice, beans, salads, and more. The system allows you to order before arrival, which helps speed up service. Several reviews praise the food as good and plentiful, considering it’s included in the tour price. One traveler remarked, “The food was good and the islands were great,” emphasizing the value of this meal in the context of a full-day outing.

Lagoa Azul and Final Highlights

The jewel of the tour is Lagoa Azul, a stunning natural pool renowned for its unparalleled shades of blue. Snorkel here or just enjoy a refreshing dip—many reviews highlight how beautiful and Caribbean-like the waters are. This spot is often called a “must-see,” and you’ll understand why when you see the vibrant hues and clear visibility.

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Returning and Overall Experience

The tour wraps up after several hours of island hopping, swimming, and relaxing. Despite some reviews mentioning long wait times, especially for lunch or during busy seasons, most travelers agree that the experience is well worth the effort. The guides, like Tiago and Felipe, are praised for their attentiveness and multilingual skills, making the day easier to enjoy even in a large group.

The Practicalities

The tour’s price balances convenience and value, considering it includes transportation, boat rides, and meals. Snorkeling equipment isn’t included but can be rented for a reasonable fee. Environmental fees of R$10.50 are paid on-site, helping maintain this fragile environment. The tour operates rain or shine, which means you should be prepared for weather conditions—some reviews mention heavy rains but also highlight the tour’s resilience in moving forward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best for travelers who want a busy, fun-filled day with plenty of sights and activities without the hassle of organizing transportation or boat rentals themselves. It suits those who enjoy group adventures, lively boat rides, and snorkeling in vibrant waters. The inclusion of a local-style meal adds a nice touch of authenticity, making it a well-rounded experience. However, if you prefer quiet beaches and solitude, or have mobility issues, this might feel too hectic or crowded.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from central Rio locations, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about transport.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, from early morning pickup to evening return, giving you ample time to explore.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $85 per person, which includes transportation, boat rides, and lunch—good value considering the variety of activities.

Are snorkeling and swimming activities included?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t included but can be rented for a fee. Many spots, like Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

How crowded is the tour?
Expect a group of up to 45 people. Some reviews mention busy spots and long queues, especially during peak season.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a change of clothes, cash for optional rentals and environmental fees, and any personal snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, most can participate, but consider the length and physical activity involved, particularly in water.

Is the tour weather dependent?
The tour runs rain or shine. Heavy rains may cause delays or changes in the itinerary, so check the forecast.

What is the lunch like?
A self-service buffet with local dishes like fried fish, chicken, rice, beans, and salads. Food is generally well-reviewed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds within 24 hours.

Wrapping It Up

This tour offers a lively, well-organized way to see some of the most striking islands and beaches near Rio de Janeiro. With knowledgeable guides, a variety of stops, and included meals, it’s a good value for travelers who want a full day of adventure and scenic beauty. Expect a mix of relaxing beach time, vibrant marine life, and energetic boat rides—perfect for active travelers looking to maximize their time.

If you’re after a friendly, fun, and bustling experience that covers lots of ground without the stress of planning each detail, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments. Just pack your sense of adventure, be ready for crowds, and prepare to enjoy some of Brazil’s finest waters and islands.

Remember: This is a group tour, so if you prefer solitude or private guides, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a social, scenic, and action-packed day, it’s hard to beat the value and variety offered here.