Paraty in 2 Days
Experience the charm and beauty of Paraty in just 2 days with our expertly crafted itinerary. Explore Brazil’s most stunning colonial city, surrounded by the lush greenery of Bocaina National Park. Discover breathtaking peaks, pristine wild beaches, and cascading waterfalls that showcase nature’s splendor. Enjoy unforgettable boat tours that reveal the hidden gems of this coastal paradise. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax, our Paraty in 2 Days package offers the perfect blend of culture and natural beauty. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories in this enchanting destination!
About Paraty
Paraty is a picturesque coastal town in Brazil that offers an incredible combination of natural beauty and historical charm. With its pristine beaches, cobblestone streets, and colonial architecture, Paraty is a delight for any traveler seeking a unique experience. The city is surrounded by lush forests and stunning waterfalls, providing ample outdoor adventures and relaxation opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to sample the local cachaças, a traditional Brazilian spirit, and learn about Paraty’s fascinating history as a former gold port during the royal era. Our two days of private tours will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this captivating destination.
Day 1: Arrival and Trindade Exploration
Begin your Paraty adventure with a scenic journey from Rio de Janeiro, arriving in time to explore the nearby village of Trindade—a coastal paradise known for its wild beaches, lush trails, and waterfalls. This laid-back former fishing village offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Spend the day discovering spots like Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and the natural swimming pool at Cachadaço, ideal for a refreshing dip. If time allows, consider a stop at the Pedra Branca waterfall on the way back, a great spot to unwind in nature before heading to your accommodation in Paraty’s charming historic center.
Day 2: Saco do Mamanguá & Paraty-Mirim
On your second day, dive deeper into Paraty’s natural beauty with a visit to the stunning Saco do Mamanguá—a tropical fjord surrounded by lush forest and calm, emerald-green waters. Start with a drive to Paraty-Mirim Beach, where local taxi boats can take you across the bay to explore hidden beaches and trails within the fjord. With over 30 secluded spots to choose from, it’s the perfect place for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on a deserted shore. As the day winds down, head back to Paraty to enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a quiet evening stroll through its cobbled streets. Whether you’re returning to Rio or staying longer, this two-day itinerary offers a perfect taste of Paraty’s diverse landscapes and laid-back charm.
Things to do in Paraty, Top Attractions
Paraty, a charming coastal town in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning natural beauty. Here are the top ten main attractions in Paraty:
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
Paraty’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring beautifully preserved colonial buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit churches like the Church of Our Lady of the Remedies and the Church of Santa Rita, and explore artisan shops and art galleries.
Paraty Bay (Baía de Paraty)
The picturesque Paraty Bay offers breathtaking views of lush greenery, sparkling waters, and surrounding mountains. Travelers can take boat tours or schooner trips to explore the bay, visit nearby islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and snorkel among vibrant marine life.
Paraty Waterfalls (Cachoeiras de Paraty)
A lush Atlantic rainforest surrounds Paraty and is home to numerous stunning waterfalls. Some famous waterfalls to visit include Tobogã Waterfall, Tarzan Waterfall, and Pedra Branca Waterfall. These natural attractions offer hiking, swimming, and picnicking opportunities in serene surroundings.
Trindade Beaches
Just a short drive from Paraty lies Trindade, a quaint fishing village renowned for its pristine beaches and natural pools. Visitors can relax on beautiful sandy shores like Praia do Cepilho and Praia do Meio, hike to secluded beaches such as Praia do Sono, and explore unique rock formations like Pedra que Engole (Swallow Rock).
Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro)
The historic Gold Trail, also known as the Caminho do Ouro, is a colonial-era route used to transport gold from Minas Gerais to Paraty during the 18th century. Today, travelers can hike sections of the trail, passing through dense forests, crossing rivers, and encountering remnants of the region’s rich history, including old bridges and ruins of former settlements.
Paraty-Mirim Beach
Paraty-Mirim Beach is a tranquil and secluded stretch of coastline located approximately 25 kilometers from Paraty. Surrounded by lush vegetation and framed by mountains, this pristine beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Paraty Cachaça Distilleries
Cachaça, Brazil’s famous sugarcane spirit, is produced in and around Paraty. Visitors can tour local distilleries such as Engenho D’Ouro and Alambique Paratiana to learn about the traditional methods of cachaça production, sample different varieties, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
Paraty Wharf (Cais de Paraty)
The Paraty Wharf is a bustling hub of activity, where colorful fishing boats mingle with tourist vessels. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, admire views of historic buildings reflected in the water, and watch fishermen unload their daily catches.
Paraty Cultural Center (Centro Cultural de Paraty)
Housed in a colonial-era building, the Paraty Cultural Center showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage through art exhibitions, musical performances, theater productions, and educational programs. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local arts scene and gain insight into Paraty’s vibrant cultural traditions.
Paraty Ecological Park (Parque Ecológico de Paraty)
This protected area encompasses over 9,000 hectares of Atlantic Forest, providing habitat for diverse wildlife species and offering outdoor recreation and ecotourism opportunities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, go birdwatching, and participate in guided nature walks to discover the beauty and biodiversity of the region.
These top ten attractions highlight the diversity of experiences awaiting visitors to Paraty, from exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying its pristine beaches and natural landscapes.
Which month is best for Paraty Brazil?
The best month to visit Paraty, Brazil, largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. However, many travelers find the optimal time to explore this coastal gem is during the dry season, typically from May to September. During these months, you can expect pleasant weather with lower rain chances, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach outings, and exploring the town’s historic charm.
While the dry season offers excellent conditions, Paraty’s unique appeal means it’s a year-round destination, and each season brings its enchantments, so plan your visit according to your interests and priorities.
How long should I spend in Paraty?
The ideal duration for your stay in Paraty depends on the depth of exploration and experiences you desire. For a well-rounded visit that allows you to immerse yourself in the town’s history, natural beauty, and relaxation, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
This timeframe allows you to explore the cobblestone streets of the historic center, enjoy a boat tour to discover hidden beaches, and venture into the surrounding nature, such as waterfalls and hiking trails.
However, if you have more time to spare, extending your stay to 4 or more days allows for a more leisurely pace, allowing you to delve deeper into the local culture, cuisine, and nearby attractions.
Ultimately, choosing how long to spend in Paraty should align with your interests and the experiences you wish to savor in this enchanting Brazilian town.
Is Paraty closer to Rio or Sao Paulo?
Paraty is located closer to Rio de Janeiro than to São Paulo, making it a popular destination for travelers coming from Rio. The distance from Rio is about 250 kilometers, typically a 4 to 5-hour drive along the scenic Costa Verde, while from São Paulo it’s approximately 300 kilometers, taking around 6 hours by car depending on the chosen route. Due to its proximity and the beautiful coastal drive, Paraty is often included as a side trip from Rio, especially for those looking to explore charming beach towns and lush landscapes along the way.
Is Paraty worth visiting?
Yes, Paraty is definitely worth visiting—especially if you enjoy a mix of colonial history, nature, and coastal beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Surrounded by the lush Atlantic Forest, Paraty also offers easy access to waterfalls, hiking trails, island-hopping boat tours, and the stunning Saco do Mamanguá fjord.
Beyond its natural and architectural charm, Paraty is known for its lively festivals, such as FLIP (International Literary Festival), and its unique local communities, including Indigenous, Caiçara, and Quilombo groups that preserve traditional ways of life. Whether you’re into culture, adventure, or relaxation, Paraty has something for every kind of traveler.
Final Thoughts
2 days in Paraty offer a perfect balance of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through its charming colonial streets, exploring pristine beaches, or hiking through lush forests, Paraty’s unique atmosphere leaves a lasting impression. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking surroundings, even a short visit allows you to experience the essence of this coastal gem. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, two days in Paraty is an ideal way to immerse yourself in one of Brazil’s most captivating destinations.
