Paraty
Plan Paraty with Haqqi Tours: day tours, private airport transfers, attraction tickets and packages, run by our own team and confirmed on WhatsApp in Arabic or English.
Early morning in Paraty, and the high tide has crept into the lowest streets of the old town, turning the uneven stones into mirrors that reflect whitewashed walls and doors painted blue, yellow and green. The white church of Santa Rita stands at the water's edge, wooden schooners rock gently at the pier, and beyond them green mountains of Atlantic rainforest drop straight into a calm sea scattered with islands.
Nothing matches those filters yet. Widen your search or message us on WhatsApp.
Paraty Day Tours
View all
Paraty at first sight
Paraty is a small colonial town on the Costa Verde of Brazil, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, roughly halfway between Rio and São Paulo. In the eighteenth century it was the port where gold from the mines of Minas Gerais was shipped to Portugal, and its perfectly preserved historic centre, together with the surrounding forests and islands, is now a World Heritage Site. Today it is a peaceful, car-free town of craft shops, churches and boat trips.
Why include Paraty in your itinerary?
- One of the best-preserved colonial towns in Brazil. The car-free historic centre, with its cobbled streets, white churches and colourful doors, feels unchanged since the days of the gold route and is a joy to explore on foot.
- A sea of islands and hidden beaches. The calm waters off Paraty are dotted with green islands, coves and clear lagoons, best explored on a relaxed boat trip with swimming and snorkelling stops along the way.
- Rainforest, waterfalls and wild coast. The mountains of the Serra da Bocaina rise behind the town, with waterfalls and natural rock slides, while the beaches and natural pools of Trindade lie just down the coast.
Signature experiences in Paraty
Island and Beach Boat Trip with Snorkelling
From the town pier, traditional wooden schooners and smaller boats set out on relaxed trips of around five hours across the calm waters, stopping at islands and beaches such as Ilha Comprida, Praia Vermelha and the Lagoa Azul, a sheltered lagoon of clear water ideal for snorkelling. Swim among colourful fish, rest on white sand framed by rainforest and enjoy lunch aboard or on a beach. Our team chooses the right boat and route for your group, from family schooners to private boats.
The Historic Centre
Paraty's historic centre is a grid of cobbled streets lined with single-storey whitewashed houses and grand two-storey mansions, many now craft shops, galleries and cafés. The large stones, laid unevenly on purpose, were designed to let the high tide wash through the streets. Visit the white church of Santa Rita by the water, the church of Our Lady of the Rosary built by enslaved Africans, and the main church overlooking the square, and return in the evening when the streets glow by lamplight.
Trindade and its Natural Pool
About thirty-five minutes south of Paraty, the village of Trindade has some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Verde, with golden sand, giant granite boulders and rainforest-covered hills. A short trail leads past Cachadaço beach to a natural pool sheltered by rocks, where calm, clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling among fish. Arrive early in summer, as the village is popular at weekends.
Saco do Mamanguá
South-east of Paraty, the Saco do Mamanguá is a long, narrow arm of the sea enclosed by steep, forested mountains, often called the only tropical fjord in Brazil. Small fishing communities live along its shores, mangroves line its far end, and the water is calm and sheltered. Visit by boat with stops for swimming, or climb the peak at its mouth for a breathtaking view over the inlet and the islands beyond.
Waterfalls and the Gold Trail
The road from Paraty towards Cunha climbs into the Atlantic rainforest, where waterfalls such as the Cachoeira do Tobogã, a smooth natural rock slide into a pool, delight children and adults alike. Nearby, sections of the original stone-paved Gold Trail, built to carry gold from the mines to the coast, can be walked with a local guide through the forest. Combine both in a half-day trip with a visit to a farm growing bananas, palm hearts and local produce.
Neighbourhoods and quarters to know in Paraty
The Historic Centre
Staying inside the car-free historic centre means waking up among colonial houses and churches, with guesthouses in restored mansions, cafés and the boat pier all within a few minutes' walk. It is peaceful at night and the most atmospheric choice, though the cobblestones call for flat shoes and light luggage.
Pontal and Caborê
Across the small bridge over the Perequê-Açu River, the neighbourhoods of Pontal and Caborê have guesthouses and small hotels just a short walk from the historic centre, with the calm Pontal beach close by. It is a quieter, practical choice with easy access to everything.
Jabaquara
Jabaquara, about five minutes north of the centre, has a long, shallow and calm beach ideal for children, with guesthouses, holiday houses and simple seafood restaurants along the shore. It suits families who want sea views and a relaxed pace close to town.
Trindade and the Southern Coast
The village of Trindade and the coast to the south offer simple guesthouses and chalets close to wild beaches, natural pools and forest trails. It is perfect for nature lovers and active travellers, about thirty-five minutes from the historic centre.
How long to stay in Paraty and how to pair it
Recommended stay
We recommend three to four nights in Paraty. One day for the historic centre and its churches, a second for a boat trip to the islands and beaches with snorkelling, a third for Trindade and its natural pool, and a fourth for the waterfalls and the Gold Trail or a boat trip to the Saco do Mamanguá. With more time, continue to Ilha Grande along the coast.
How to pair it
Paraty pairs naturally with Rio de Janeiro, about four hours away along the coastal highway, for its beaches, mountains and the great statue on Corcovado. Ilha Grande, a car-free island of rainforest and beaches, lies about one and a half hours away by road and boat, while Petrópolis and its imperial palace are in the mountains above Rio. A longer journey can add São Paulo or the Iguaçu Falls, with private transfers arranged by our team.
Best time to visit Paraty and the rhythm of the day
Best months
Paraty can be visited all year. April to June and August to October bring the most pleasant mix of mild temperatures, drier days and clear water for boat trips and snorkelling, with fewer crowds. December to March is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon rain and busy holiday periods, but the waterfalls are at their fullest. June and July are cooler and generally dry, ideal for walking the historic centre and the trails.
The daily rhythm
Paraty runs at a gentle pace. Mornings are best for boat trips and the beaches, when the sea is calm and the light is soft on the islands. Middle of the day suits swimming, lunch on the water or a cool waterfall. In the late afternoon the historic centre fills with strollers, and the evening is calm and beautiful, with lamplight on the white walls and dinners of fresh seafood.
On-the-ground logistics in Paraty
Arrival
Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG) is the main gateway to Paraty, about four hours by road along the scenic coastal highway past Angra dos Reis. Rio's downtown airport (SDU), for domestic flights, is about the same distance, and São Paulo International Airport (GRU) is around four and a half to five hours away. We arrange private transfers that meet you at arrivals and drive you directly to your hotel in Paraty.
Getting around
The historic centre is closed to cars and best explored on foot, wearing flat, comfortable shoes for the large uneven stones. Taxis and local buses link the centre with Jabaquara, Trindade and other beaches, and boats leave daily from the town pier for the islands. For the waterfalls, the Gold Trail, the Saco do Mamanguá and transfers to Rio or Ilha Grande, a private car with driver or private boat arranged by our team is the most comfortable choice.
Local etiquette tip
Brazilians are warm, cheerful and welcoming, and greetings are friendly. Say bom dia and obrigado or obrigada, and expect a smile in return. Dress modestly when entering churches. Respect the traditional fishing communities and the Guaraní villages near Paraty, and ask before photographing people. On boat trips, take rubbish back to shore and avoid touching coral and marine life. Tipping around ten percent is customary and often included in restaurant bills.
Must-do things in Paraty
- Sail the calm waters to islands and hidden beaches
- Snorkel in the clear water of the Lagoa Azul
- Wander the cobbled streets of the historic centre
- Photograph the white church of Santa Rita by the sea
- Swim in the natural rock pool at Trindade
- Slide down the rock waterfall at Cachoeira do Tobogã
- Walk a stretch of the historic Gold Trail
- Visit the fjord-like Saco do Mamanguá by boat
- Watch the high tide flow into the old streets
- Taste fresh shrimp and the local fish stew with banana
Do’s and don’ts in Paraty
Do
- Do wear flat shoes on the old cobblestones
- Do take a boat trip on a sunny morning
- Do carry insect repellent for the forest
- Do bring swimwear and a towel for every outing
- Do book boats and guesthouses early in summer
Don’t
- Don't wear heels in the historic centre
- Don't touch coral or feed fish on boat trips
- Don't leave rubbish on beaches or trails
- Don't swim at waterfalls after heavy rain
- Don't treat Paraty as only a day trip from Rio
Paraty at a glance
Plan Paraty with Haqqi Tours
Every option is confirmed by our team on WhatsApp before you pay, and delivered by our own people or by trusted local partners we work with in every city. Because we send travellers from all over the world, our partners give us special rates and priority, so you always receive the best. Prices are per person unless marked per vehicle.
About Haqqi Tours: About us Contact us Legal NoticePrivacy PolicyCookies & Marketing PreferencesTerms & ConditionsBooking, Payment & Refunds
More services in Paraty
Where we operate in Brazil
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask most about Paraty.
Where should I stay in Paraty?
Most visitors stay in or right beside the historic centre, close to the churches, cafés and the boat pier. Pontal and Caborê are quiet and just a short walk away, Jabaquara suits families with its calm beach, and Trindade is ideal for nature lovers who want wild beaches and trails. Our team suggests the best area for your plans and arranges your private transfer from Rio or São Paulo.
Is Paraty worth visiting from Rio de Janeiro?
Yes. Paraty is about four hours from Rio, so a day trip is tiring and leaves little time to enjoy it. Three or four nights let you explore the historic centre at a relaxed pace, take a boat trip to the islands, swim at Trindade and visit the waterfalls, and the town is especially magical in the evening. We arrange private transfers and tours throughout the Costa Verde.
What is the dress code and etiquette in Paraty?
Dress is light and casual, with flat comfortable shoes for the cobblestones, a hat and sun protection, and a light jacket for cooler evenings in winter. Swimwear belongs on beaches and boats, so cover up in town and restaurants. Dress modestly in churches, greet people warmly and respect local communities and the natural environment.
Is Paraty suitable for families and Muslim travellers?
Yes. Paraty is calm, friendly and full of gentle adventures, from boat trips with swimming stops and natural pools to waterfalls with rock slides that children love. Halal food is limited in Paraty, but fresh fish, seafood, rice, beans, salads and tropical fruit are easy to find, and Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo have mosques and halal restaurants. Our team can advise on suitable places to eat.
Is it safe to travel to Paraty now?
Paraty is generally considered one of the calmer and safer places to visit in Brazil. Take normal care with belongings, avoid poorly lit areas late at night, follow boat crews' safety instructions and check conditions before visiting waterfalls after rain. Check your own government's official travel advice before departure, and keep our WhatsApp line handy throughout your stay.
What are the must-do things in Paraty?
The must-do things in Paraty include a boat trip to the islands and beaches with snorkelling, the cobbled streets and churches of the historic centre, the natural pool at Trindade, the Saco do Mamanguá, the waterfalls and the historic Gold Trail. Our private tours combine these in the best order and timing.
How many days do you need in Paraty?
Three to four days is ideal for Paraty: one for the historic centre, one for a boat trip to the islands, one for Trindade and one for the waterfalls or the Saco do Mamanguá. Two days cover the town and a boat trip at a quicker pace, while five or six days allow you to add Ilha Grande.
What can I book in Paraty with Haqqi Tours?
Day tours, including Paraty Bay Islands and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling. Each has its own page, and the WhatsApp desk combines any of them into one plan with one written price.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel in Paraty?
With a private transfer: a driver at arrivals, flight tracking and a fixed price for the whole vehicle, door to door. Tell the desk the flight number and the hotel.
Is there public transport from the airport to Paraty?
Public options vary by airport and end at a station rather than your hotel; the private transfer starts at the arrivals door and ends at your door.
Which tours are available in Paraty?
Among them: Paraty Bay Islands and Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling. Each page says whether the day is private or small-group, what it includes and how long it lasts.
Are the tours private or in a group?
Both exist, and each tour page says which. A private tour has a vehicle and guide for your party alone; the desk can make most group tours private on request.
How do I book?
Fill in the form on any page or message us on WhatsApp with the date, the number of travellers and the hotel. A member of our team confirms the price and the details in writing within minutes.
Are the prices fixed?
Yes - every price is agreed in writing on WhatsApp before you travel and does not change on the day.
Do the drivers and guides speak Arabic or English?
It depends on the city and the day, so we do not promise a particular language; tell us your preference and we do our best. The WhatsApp desk always works in Arabic and English.
Can I change or cancel a booking in Paraty?
Yes, in the same WhatsApp conversation. The terms depend on the product and on how close to the date the change comes; the desk states them before you pay.