Who wouldn't want to have plenty of time to enjoy their vacation? The truth is that most of the time, time is scarce, and we try to optimize as much as possible to visit and experience everything we can.

For those visiting Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande is an unmissable destination that should not be left out of your itinerary. Ideally, to fully appreciate the wonders of this incredible place, you'd need 3 to 4 days. 

However, if you have limited time available, we've listed some tips for you to make the most of a day trip to Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro.

The most practical and convenient way to get there and back is by taking a transfer service, which includes both land and sea transportation. Pick-up points are available in the South Zone, Downtown, and the city's airports.

Boat trips give you the opportunity to explore the main tourist attractions and catch a glimpse of paradise. However, pay attention to the departure and return times for these tours, as the options for departures to/from the mainland are limited. The last ferry to Angra dos Reis is at 18:30, and to Conceição de Jacareí, it's at 17:30. If you choose to take the ferry to Mangaratiba, the return time is also 17:30. 

For all the schedules, please refer to our post on how to get to Ilha Grande and boat schedules.

The recommended tours for those coming from Rio for a day trip include the Meia Volta tour, which visits the famous Blue and Green Lagoons known for their crystal-clear waters and the experience of swimming with colorful fish. This tour departs at 10:30 AM and returns at 4:30 PM, making it a convenient choice for a day trip. There are other great alternatives such as the Paradisiacal Islands and the Volta a Ilha tours, but their schedules are tighter and are less advisable for those looking to go back on the same day. Another option is private boat tours, which are well worth it if you are in a group or with your family, as their schedules are more flexible.

If you're a beach enthusiast, Lopes Mendes is an excellent choice. In addition to regular transportation, there are taxi boats that run to this beach. Both options arrive at Pouso Beach, and from there, there's a 25-minute trail to Lopes Mendes Beach. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike from Vila do Abraão and return to the village by boat, which takes approximately 3 hours hiking and passes through the beautiful beaches of Palmas, Mangues, and Pouso.

But if you prefer something more laid-back and want to stay in the vicinity, Vila do Abraão, the arrival point on the island, offers plenty of great options for visitors. There's a rich history, charming beaches accessible via relatively easy trails, a natural pool, as well as bars and restaurants where you can savor local cuisine or simply enjoy a drink by the sea. A guided historical and natural tour can enrich your experience of visiting the village, revealing interesting facts about the local history and culture, and, of course, it's the perfect spot for a swim.

You might also be interested in:



- How to get to Ilha Grande to Paraty

- 10 Places you must visit on Ilha Grande

- What to bring on a boat trip

- The best time to visit Ilha Grande

Looking for alternative activities in Rio de Janeiro? Here are some sightseeing tips that will give you a different perspective on the Marvelous City.