The tropical paradise of Ilha Grande packs its best experiences into well-organized tours. Speedboat excursions zip between secluded beaches and neighboring islands, while larger boat tours offer a more leisurely pace to spots like the postcard-perfect Lopes Mendes Beach. Walking tours reveal the island’s fascinating prison history and colonial past.
I especially love the small-group speedboat tours – they reach hidden lagoons and less-visited beaches that bigger boats can’t access. For value and variety, the full-day boat tours earn my vote, combining swimming stops with cultural insights.
Let’s examine the most worthwhile tours Ilha Grande has to offer.
Key Points
- Ilha Grande offers a variety of tours, including private historical walking tours, full-day speedboat tours, and daylong excursions from Rio de Janeiro.
- Snorkeling and beach tours provide opportunities to explore Lagoa Verde, Lagoa Azul, and Saco do Ceu Beach, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
- Half-day tours like the Blue Lagoon Schooner Tour and Ilha Grande Schooner Tour allow visitors to visit multiple locations and engage in activities like swimming and snorkeling.
- Private tours, such as the tour of Abraão and Enseada Das Estrela and the Six Hour Speedboat Tour of Ilha Grande, offer personalized experiences with inclusions like private transportation, snorkeling equipment, and lunch.
- Tour options cater to different interests and budgets, with most offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and lowest price guarantees.
Angra Dos Reis With Speedboat Tour and Paradise Islands
For those seeking to explore the stunning islands and beaches of Angra dos Reis, the Angra dos Reis Speedboat Tour to Paradise Islands offers a comprehensive and convenient option.
This 5-hour small-group tour is ideal for couples, families, and friends, providing personalized attention. Travelers will have the chance to discover beautiful beaches and islands in just one day, making it suitable for those with limited time.
The tour includes shared transportation, a snorkel mask, and the option to purchase food and drinks. Operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with an 11:00 am start, the tour departs from Estação Santa Luzia in Angra dos Reis.
While gratuities are optional, lunch at beach restaurants is available at an extra cost. The tour has received positive reviews, with travelers appreciating the boat quality and service, though some negative feedback was given regarding the lunch restaurant quality and pricing.
Read our full review: Angra Dos Reis With Speedboat Tour and Paradise Islands Review
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From Abraão, Ilha Grande: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking
Recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches globally, the Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking from Abraão, Ilha Grande offers visitors a chance to explore this natural paradise.
The 6-hour tour costs €20.42 per person and includes a schooner ride to and from Pouso Beach. From there, participants enjoy a 20-minute trek to the stunning Lopes Mendes Beach, known for its white sands, blue waters, and natural shade.
Adventurers can swim in the ocean or surf the good waves, though safety concerns have been raised about the large swells. The tour has an overall rating of 4.4/5, with high praise for the transportation but slightly lower marks for value.
Delays due to missing participants have been reported, so it’s essential to arrive on time. Visitors should come prepared with supplies, as Lopes Mendes is a remote location.
Despite some minor issues, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience one of the world’s most picturesque beaches.
Read our full review: From Abraão, Ilha Grande: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking Review
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Boat Tour to the Beaches of Angra Dos Reis
This boat tour to the beaches of Angra dos Reis offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning coastline of Ilha Grande.
Operated by Tangol, the tour takes travelers on a boat ride to various beaches in the region. The price starts at $14.00 per person, and the tour includes a boat ticket, lunch, drinks, and transportation to the meeting point.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 180 travelers and departs from the Estação Santa Luzia in Angra dos Reis. The activity starts at 11:30 am and ends back at the meeting point.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to run.
The tour has a review rating of 4.1 based on 7 reviews, with no 5-star ratings.
Travelers can cancel the tour for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Boat Tour to the Beaches of Angra Dos Reis Review
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Daylong Excursion to Angra Dos Reis and Ilha Grande
With sweeping views of the serene Angra dos Reis bay and the lush, verdant Ilha Grande, this daylong excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Departing from Rio de Janeiro, the tour lasts 14 hours and costs between £47.30 to £59.12 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is available from Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana, and the tour includes stops at the Blue Lagoon, Ilha Grande, Praia de Araça, Freguesia de Santana, and Velinn Angra Sunset, with a drop-off at the original pickup locations.
Activities range from snorkeling to beach relaxation, with the opportunity to visit notable spots like Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde, Praia Cataguazes, and Praia de Japariz.
Reviewers praise the tour’s beautiful locations, knowledgeable guide, and enjoyable atmosphere, with positive comments about the music, drinks, and food on the boat.
Read our full review: Daylong Excursion to Angra Dos Reis and Ilha Grande Review
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Ilha Grande – From Abraão: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking
Explore one of Brazil’s most picturesque beaches with the Ilha Grande – From Abraão: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking. This boat tour takes you from Abraão to Pouso and the stunning Lopes Mendes Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and even try surfing.
With a maximum capacity of 35 travelers, you’ll enjoy a less crowded experience. The tour includes round-trip transportation from the Abraão pier, but food and drinks aren’t specified. Priced starting at $25 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.
Meet the tour host Waldeck at the Agência Athos agency to collect your tickets before heading to the pier. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. The Ilha Grande – From Abraão: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking has received mixed reviews, with praise for the beautiful scenery but some criticism regarding communication and pricing.
The operator emphasizes variable pricing and aims to assist with any issues.
Read our full review: Ilha Grande – From Abraão: Lopes Mendes Beach Tour & Trekking Review
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Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande With Boat Tour & Optional Lunch
The Ilha Grande with Boat Tour & Optional Lunch takes travelers on a 10-hour journey from Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone to the stunning Costa Verde region. For $64.44 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup, a boat tour through Ilha Grande, swim stops at Baleias Beach and Blue Lagoon, and a visit to the historic Freguesia de Santana.
Travelers can also opt for a lunch stop at Japariz Beach, with vegetarian options available.
The tour highlights the natural beauty of the region, with opportunities to swim with colorful fish, explore coral reefs, and relax in calm waters.
While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it provides a great way for others to experience the stunning landscapes of Ilha Grande.
However, customers have reported some issues with tour cancellations and refunds, so it’s essential to carefully review the cancellation policy before booking.
Read our full review: Rio De Janeiro: Ilha Grande With Boat Tour & Optional Lunch Review
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Ilha Grande – Private Historical Walking Tour With Natural Pool.
Although Ilha Grande offers a wealth of natural wonders, this private historical walking tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the island’s captivating past. Over the course of 2-3 hours, you’ll explore 19th-century buildings, the State Park, Black Beach, and the Pocao do Abraao Waterfall, all while benefitting from the expert knowledge of a licensed local guide.
The tour’s activities include swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to fully learn about the island’s natural beauty. With a duration that leaves room for further exploration, this experience caters to a range of interests and fitness levels.
Priced from $60 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, with pickup points available upon booking confirmation.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, though suggest wearing good walking shoes due to potentially muddy conditions.
Read our full review: Ilha Grande – Private Historical Walking Tour With Natural Pool. Review
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Full-Day Ilha Grande Northern Coast Speedboat Tour
What better way to experience the stunning northern coast of Ilha Grande than with a full-day speedboat tour? This 6-hour adventure promises to take you on an unforgettable journey, with highlights including Lagoa Azul, Praia do Amor, Lagoa Verde, Saco do Ceu Beach, and Praia da Feiticeira.
You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel, swim, and relax on beautiful beaches, all while enjoying the expertise of a professional guide.
The tour starts at 10:30 am in Vila do Abraão, where you’ll board a speedboat and head out to your first stop, Lagoa Verde, for an hour of snorkeling. Next, it’s on to Lagoa Azul for a refreshing swim.
Lunch can be purchased at the Saco do Ceu Beach stop, before you continue to Praia do Amor, Praia da Caraminga, and Praia da Feiticeira. The tour concludes around 4:00 pm back at the original departure point.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience. Bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, and rental equipment are all included in the affordable price of $63 per person.
Read our full review: Full-Day Ilha Grande Northern Coast Speedboat Tour Review
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Highlights of Abraão and Enseada Das Estrela in a 4-Hour Tour
Why not explore the highlights of Abraão and Enseada das Estrela during this 4-hour private tour?
Operated by Ilha Grande Hiking, this tour offers a comprehensive experience for groups of up to 6 participants. The tour covers the picturesque Abraão and Enseada das Estrela, providing a glimpse into the natural beauty of Ilha Grande.
The tour includes private transportation, snorkeling equipment, and a delicious lunch. Guests will meet at the convenient location of Igreja de São Sebastião, which is accessible from most hotels and cruise ships.
The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM, and participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Secure your spot with the “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option, as this tour is likely to sell out.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on verified reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable excursion in Ilha Grande.
Read our full review: Highlights of Abraão and Enseada Das Estrela in a 4-Hour Tour Review
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Half-Day Blue Lagoon Schooner Tour
The Half-Day Blue Lagoon Schooner Tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore the stunning blue lagoons of Ilha Grande. This 150-person tour departs at 10:30 AM, with flexibility based on the tide. The tour includes a professional English- or Portuguese-speaking guide, a schooner ride, safety equipment, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travelers will find noodle buoys and snorkel/dive equipment available for rent on the tour. The meeting point is a short walk from the Vila do Abraão Main Pier, and the tour returns to the same location. Safety instructions are provided at the start, and travelers must return to the schooner when the horn sounds after each stop.
While the tour has a 2.5-star rating based on 2 reviews, some travelers have reported issues with cancellations and lack of responsiveness from the host. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Read our full review: Half-Day Blue Lagoon Schooner Tour Review
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Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour
Travelers embarking on the Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour will have the opportunity to explore the stunning blue lagoons, historic settlements, and picturesque beaches that make Ilha Grande a renowned natural wonder.
The 5-hour tour takes visitors to three prime locations: the Blue Lagoon, Freguesia de Santana, and Japariz. At each stop, guests will have 40-50 minutes of free time to swim, snorkel, and soak in the island’s natural beauty.
The tour accommodates up to 150 travelers and is priced from $42 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior. Inclusions cover transportation, a professional guide, safety equipment, and the schooner ride itself.
While snorkeling gear is available to rent, food and drinks must be purchased separately. Reviews are mixed, with some praising the culture and others noting overcrowding and cleanliness concerns.
The Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this stunning Brazilian island paradise.
Read our full review: Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour Review
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Six Hour Speedboat Tour of Ilha Grande. Be Amazed by the Blue and Green Lagoons
Thrill-seekers exploring the stunning Ilha Grande can embark on a captivating six-hour speedboat tour to enjoy the island’s breathtaking natural wonders.
Operated by Ilha Grande Hiking, this tour promises an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to discover the renowned Blue and Green Lagoons. Guests will meet at the Agência Como Uma Onda Tour, conveniently located near the Touristic Pier, and must check in 15 minutes prior to the 10:30 am departure.
The tour includes pool noodles for floating, a cooler with ice, a provided lunch, and use of snorkeling equipment, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at $55.00 per person, the tour boasts a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in their planning.
Read our full review: Six Hour Speedboat Tour of Ilha Grande. Be Amazed by the Blue and Green Lagoons Review
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Sum Up
Ilha Grande offers a variety of captivating tours that showcase its stunning natural beauty. From speedboat excursions to tranquil trekking adventures, visitors can explore the island’s pristine beaches, crystalline lagoons, and lush forests. Whether seeking a leisurely day trip or a more immersive experience, there’s a tour to suit every traveler’s preferences on this remarkable Brazilian paradise.