Rio de Janeiro, Beaches & Island Hopping
10-day itinerary to Rio and its nearby islands & beaches
Fly into Brazil’s cultural capital of Rio de Janeiro, taking a couple of days to explore its world-famous beaches, nightlife and laidback Carioca culture. Travel down the coast to Paraty for island hopping, scuba diving and amazing colonial architecture, before heading to Ilha Grande for pristine rainforest and quiet beaches — as well to explore its history as a pirate hideout and leper colony. End your journey back in Rio.
Got longer to venture further? Popular add-ons include Iguassu Falls and the Pantanal for exceptional wildlife viewing. Time your trip for February to catch the Rio Carnival.
Key information
| Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Paraty |
|---|---|
| Activity | Beach, Family, Nature & Wildlife, Culture |
| Physical Level | Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Explore colourful Rio de Janeiro
Day 1–3 in Rio de Janeiro
Is there another city on earth that can match Rio's beauty? Mountain peaks, lush forests, beautiful beaches and playful inhabitants make Rio a must-see on any Brazilian itinerary. From the famous beaches of Copacabana to edgy Botofago, Rio is the perfect bookend to a Brazil trip.
Spend several days exploring Brazil’s bustling coastal city — and home to the world’s biggest carnival. Visit the city’s famed beaches and diverse neighbourhoods, as well as the urban rainforest of Tijuca Forest. Ride the rack railway up Corcovado Mountain to see up-close the 30m-high statue of Christ the Redeemer — perhaps one of the most recognisable icons of Brazil. Then drive through Santa Teresa neighborhood to explore the area’s history and beautiful 19th and early 20th century mansions.
Don't miss
Visit Rio’s vibrant beaches
The 4km-long Copacabana beach is one of the city’s most popular, offering a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. For a less touristy experience try some of the lesser-celebrated beaches, including Barra da Tijuca Beach and Joatinga Beach.
Climb Sugarloaf Mountain
Take a relaxed cable car ride up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of Guanabana Bay, Corcovado Mountain, Santa Cruz Fortress and Rio-Niteroi Bridge.
Visit colonial Paraty
Day 4–6 in Paraty
A picturesque colonial-era town nestled on a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coast and backed by forested mountains.
Paraty offers a mix of small-town colonial Brazil and excellent wildlife watching — complete with beaches and a bay made for watching sunsets. Explore the 17th century Portuguese architecture including the waterfront Capela de Santa Rita, a whitewashed church built in 1722, and the larger First Church of Our Lady of the Remedies.
Don't miss
Explore Paraty’s islands and beaches
Paraty is surrounded by some stunning beaches, some of which can only be accessed by boat. To explore further afield, take a day cruise out to some of the nearby islands and enjoy freshly-caught fish in a local restaurant.
Go beach-hopping in Ilha Grande
Day 7–9 in Ilha Grande
The island of Ilha Grande is tucked away between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo and is a popular holiday destination with both Brazilians and international travellers. Its coves are full of beautiful beaches, with the most notable being Lopes Mendes beach – once voted the 13th most beautiful beach in the world.
Return to Rio and depart
Day 10 in Rio de Janeiro
Head back to Rio de Janeiro for your onward departure.
Where to stay
Classic
Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Situated just 700 yards from Copacabana Beach, Mirador Rio offers guests comfortable rooms, a buffet breakfast, restaurant serving local and international cuisine, sauna and fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool boasting panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.
Classic
Pousada do Cais
Located opposite the wharf and only 900 yards from Praia do Pontal Beach, Pousada do Cais offers stylish accommodation in the heart of Paraty's pretty historic centre. Comfortable rooms feature parquet floors and timber furnishings, with select suites offering ocean views and balconies.
Deluxe
Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Located opposite Copacabana Beach, the Miramar Hotel by Windsor features luxurious accommodation in the heart of one of Rio's most popular neighbourhoods. Guests can enjoy the outdoor green granite pool with panoramic views of the coast, fully-equipped gym, rooftop bar and restaurant.
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