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Ilha Grande is full of natural beauty, beaches and trails.

Ilha Grande, situated in the municipality of Angra dos Reis in the state of Rio de Janeiro, is a tropical paradise known for its natural beauty, stunning trails and paradisiacal beaches.

With its unspoilt nature, Ilha Grande is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, beaches and nature.

Some of the main characteristics of Ilha Grande

1. Geography

• Size and Location: Ilha Grande has an area of around 193 km² and is part of the municipality of Angra dos Reis. It is the largest island in the archipelago that bears the same name.
• Topography: The island is mountainous, with high peaks such as Pico do Papagaio, which reaches an altitude of 982 metres. The coastline is jagged, with more than 100 beaches, coves and lagoons.
• Forests: Much of the island is covered by the Atlantic Rainforest, one of the most biodiverse forests on the planet, which is home to a rich fauna and flora.

2. Climate

• Humid tropical: Ilha Grande has a tropical climate, with average annual temperatures varying between 23°C and 30°C. Rainfall is frequent, especially during the summer (from December to March), but the climate is generally pleasant all year round.

3. Biodiversity

• Fauna: The island is home to several species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, including some endangered species. Micos, armadillos, capybaras and a diversity of birds are common in the region.
• Marine life: The waters around the island are home to a rich marine life, with tropical fish, sea turtles, corals, and occasionally, dolphins and whales can be spotted.

4. Environmental protection

• State Park: A large part of the island is protected by the Ilha Grande State Park, created to preserve its ecosystem. In addition, the Praia do Sul State Biological Reserve protects areas of extreme ecological importance.
• Conservation: Due to its status as a protected area, the island does not allow cars or motorbikes to enter, which helps to preserve the natural environment and provides a more peaceful atmosphere.

5. Culture and History

• History: Ilha Grande has a rich and diverse history. In the past, it was used as a quarantine site for immigrants, the site of a penal colony (Presídio de Dois Rios) and an important strategic point during the slave trade era.
• Local Communities: Vila do Abraão is the main settlement on the island, where most of the local population lives. The local culture is influenced by fishing and tourism, with traces of Portuguese colonisation.

6. Tourism and Activities

• Ecotourism: Ilha Grande is a popular destination for ecotourism, with numerous trails criss-crossing the island, connecting different beaches, waterfalls and viewpoints. The trails range from short and easy to long and challenging.
• Diving and Snorkelling: The clear waters and rich marine life make the island one of the best places for diving and snorkelling in Brazil. Spots such as the Blue Lagoon and Jorge Grego Island are particularly popular.
• Beaches: With more than 100 beaches, Ilha Grande offers everything from deserted, tranquil beaches to the busiest, such as Lopes Mendes, often voted one of the most beautiful in the country.

7. Accessibility

• Isolation: Access to Ilha Grande is exclusively by boat, which helps to maintain its unspoilt environment and ensure a more authentic and peaceful experience for visitors.

These characteristics make Ilha Grande a unique destination, combining exuberant nature, rich history and a simpler lifestyle connected to nature.

Videos – Tourist attractions of Ilha Grande RJ

Tourist Attractions of Ilha Grande RJ

1. Beaches

1. VILA DO ABRAÃO

One of the oldest and most important villages on Ilha Grande. Abraão offers an urban infrastructure suitable for those seeking relaxation and harmony with nature.

Quality accommodation services (Pousadas and Campings) and good restaurants, as well as being the only village to have regular transport. All this makes Abraão the most popular village on Ilha Grande, attracting thousands of tourists all year round.

Visiting the church of São Sebastião, walking the streets and beaches, buying handicrafts and enjoying the local beauty is an excellent programme.

In July, the Ilha Grande Music and Ecology Festival takes place, a major event that has already become part of Angra’s tourist calendar, bringing together new talents and big names from the MPB.

From Abraão, several schooners offer trips to different parts of the island, and there are also trails that link Abraão to other villages or beaches, such as Japariz, Lopes Mendes, Dois Rios, Caxadaço and so on.

2. ENSEADA DAS ESTRELAS

The large number of starfish gave the place its name. At the end of the cove is Saco do Céu and good beaches with calm waters that are ideal for swimming.

They are Praia Grande, Praia de Fora and Praia da Feiticeira, where the famous Feiticeira waterfall is located, with its more than ten metres high, forming an enigmatic veil of water surrounded by the green of the Atlantic Forest.

The beaches in this cove are characterised by being narrow and with little shade.

At Enseada das Estrelas there is an excellent accommodation option, O Sítio do Lobo, with spa options and various leisure activities.

3. SACO DO CÉU

Saco do Céu is in the cove of the stars. It is characterised by its calm sea, which is contoured by the mountain as if it were forming a lake.

On starry nights, the stars are reflected in the water, giving the area a magical atmosphere, hence the origin of the name;

Much of the coastline is made up of mangroves. In the summer, boat traffic is intense: Yachts, speedboats and jet skis.

Saco do Céu is a gastronomic stronghold. Excellent restaurants such as Reis Magos, Flutuante Almirantado, Mar e Massa, among others, attract tourists and personalities from the artistic, sporting and business world, who usually spend holidays and weekends in Angra.

4. JAPARIZ BEACH

Almost all the sloop trips that take in Lagoa Azul and Freguesia de Santana stop for lunch in Japariz.

There is a good restaurant structure, very affordable prices and always fresh seafood, as well as other types of dishes.

Due to its proximity to the mainland, Japariz was the site of the terminal that distributed electricity to the other villages on Ilha Grande.

5. VILA DE FREGUESIA DE SANTANA

Freguesia de Santana was an important industrial and agricultural centre in the 17th century, with extensive coffee, sugar cane and cereal plantations, as well as brandy mills. The main point is an old church, the most important religious monument on Ilha Grande.

Built in 1843 on the site of an old chapel, it stands in a rectangular churchyard and is supported by retaining walls. Next to it is a giant coconut tree which, together with the two beaches, completes the exuberant scenery.

The upper beach, closer to the church, has a mooring pier and a good number of trees that provide shade on part of the beach.

The lower beach, with its transparent waters and white sand, doesn’t offer as much shade as the upper beach. There you can find two or three stalls selling snacks, soft drinks and beer.

Due to the calm and tranquil sea, the place is very popular with tourists, especially at weekends, as most of the schooner trips that leave from Angra or Abraão include Freguesia de Santana on their itineraries.

6. LAGOA AZUL

A popular spot for sloops and speedboats that enjoy the exuberant scenery where the green contrasts with the blue waters. In this tranquillity, tourists have the perfect environment to recover their energy in full contact with nature.

A good swim and a distraction with the multicoloured fish, always in large numbers, which come to the surface in search of food, are the main attractions.

Most of the tours around the bay of Ilha Grande include the Blue Lagoon in their itinerary. They usually make a stop of around 30 minutes, which is enough time to contemplate the beauty of the place, snorkel and take photos to remember the paradise.

7. ENSEADA DO BANANAL

The calm, clean waters make the village of Bananal  a popular spot. It’s an excellent option for an early night and a rest. The tourist attractions include boat trips, snorkelling and nature walks.

The inns offer good services, with sea transport to and from Angra dos Reis.

Bananal  like  much of the island, already has electricity supplied  by CERJ, thus providing greater comfort and convenience for tourists.

8. MATARIZ BEACH

Located in the cove of Sítio Forte, near the village of Bananal. An old fish processing factory still exists, even though it has been decommissioned. It was one of the island’s major economic sectors during the 19th century.

Matariz is not frequented by tourists, but for those who want to get to know Ilha Grande well, a visit is a must.

9. PASSATERRA BEACH

A small beach with emerald green waters. A small town with several modern houses.

In Passaterra, such as Ubatubinha, Maguariquissaba, Tapera and Sítio Forte, fishing colonies predominate.

10. MAGUARIQUESSABA BEACH

Located in the Sítio Forte cove, it is characterised by its mussel farms. It has a mooring pier, restaurants and clear, calm waters that are ideal for swimming.

In Maguariquessaba, the town hall began implementing the Ilha Grande Mussel Farming Project.

Today, other locations are part of the project, which aims to offer residents an alternative source of income.

11. ENSEADA DO SÍTIO FORTE

Enseada do Sítio Forte was once much more populated; today there are few houses as the land is privately owned. Lots of greenery and a medium-length beach.

Sítio Forte beach had an important presence during the time of slavery and sugar cane plantations. The higher parts of its shores have dense vegetation.

Enseada de Sítio Forte also has other beautiful beaches such as Tapera, Maguariquissaba, Passaterra and Ubatubinha.

12. TAPERA BEACH

Tapera is one of the beaches at Enseada do Sítio Forte. It is located in an indentation of the cove, Saco da Tapera. The extreme areas of the cove are excellent for snorkelling.

Semi-deserted, long beach with a narrow strip of sand. The large coconut palms along almost its entire length complete the beauty of the place.

13. UBATUBINHA BEACH

It is part of the Enseada do Sítio Forte group of beaches. Access is easy as there is a mooring. There is also a bar and restaurant.

14. LONGA BEACH

Praia da Longa is located in the cove of Araçatiba. Between it and Araçatiba is Lagoa Verde (Green Lagoon), a popular snorkelling spot for sloops and speedboats travelling around the bay of Ilha Grande.

Due to its proximity to the village of Araçatiba, it’s common to see people staying in Longa and travelling to Araçatiba, where the excitement is greater, especially during Carnival.

15. PRAIA GRANDE DE ARAÇATIBA

It is located on the part of Ilha Grande facing the municipality’s coastline. The boat journey takes approximately 1 hour. It’s an extremely quiet village, basically made up of local fishermen.

There aren’t many inns, but there are a good number of houses available for holiday rentals. The calm green waters and lush forest make Praia Grande de Araçatiba the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. During Carnival, the number of people in the village increases considerably.

As well as tourists, hundreds of residents from the town centre seek tranquillity in the waters of the village.

From Praia Grande de Araçatiba, you can reach other parts of Ilha Grande via trails.

Following the beach in the direction of the telephone post, a trail leads to Praia de Araçatiba (Araçatibinha), after which a fork gives you two options: Vila de Provetá and Gruta do Acaiá. Following the Acaiá trail we will pass through places of rare beauty such as Itaguaçu and Praia Vermelha, among others.

This trail takes approximately 5.30 hours round trip, at a moderate pace. The section that requires the most effort is just after Praia Vermelha, where a steep climb may discourage you, but don’t be discouraged, as the view from the top is breathtaking.

On the other side of the beach is the trail that leads to Vila da Longa, a much shorter route.
Camping is not allowed on the beach, but several locals rent out their land for tourists to pitch their tents.

16. ARAÇATIBA BEACH

Also known as Araçatibinha, it is about 20 minutes from Praia Grande de Araçatiba. It has all the beauty requirements of the other beaches on the island, as well as offering a good area with plenty of shade reserved for camping enthusiasts.

17. VERMELHA BEACH

A beautiful beach with a medium length of sand that is very popular with holidaymakers staying at Praia Grande de Araçatiba. The calm sea and clear, greenish waters, together with the restaurants on the beachfront, are points of attraction for constant visitors. It is approximately 45 minutes’ walk from Praia Grande de Araçatiba.

18. GRUTA DO ACAIÁ

Another popular spot for holidaymakers. It is a submerged cave that reflects sunlight through the sea water from the inside out. The passage is narrow but not dangerous.

To get to the cave you have to pass through a private property, where you’ll find a shower, toilet and a small bar.

In high season, there is a queue to see the cave. Avoid these days, as the water becomes very murky, making it difficult to see. Take the opportunity to take a dip in the blue waters of Ponta do Acaía, which is also an exceptional spot for spearfishing.

19. VILA DE PROVETÁ

A beach with crystal-clear green waters, mostly inhabited by the Assembléia de Deus (Assembly of God) Protestant community.

For those who have never seen it, it’s quite funny to see the locals bathing in the sea fully clothed, the women in their skirts and blouses and the men in their trousers and shirts – it’s a local tradition that has been maintained over the years. It has a good trade made up of bars and grocery shops.

There are no hostels or camping areas, but it’s always easy to find places to camp in the grounds of local houses. Although it doesn’t have regular transport, there are always fishing boats that ferry locals and tourists around.

20. MEROS BEACH

Praia dos Meros is a small, secluded beach whose waters are crystal clear but quite rough. The beach has white sand and dunes often form there.

In the Meros region, there are geological remains of ancient civilisations dating back some 3000 years.

These traces are cavities in the rocks, known as “amolares”, which were formed by the friction and wear of stones used by our ancestors to sharpen their rudimentary tools. Opposite the beach is the island of Meros, which is a great place for fishing and snorkelling.

Praia dos Meros is located at the tip of Meros, the south-western tip of Ilha Grande;

21. PONTA DOS DRAGOS

Sailing towards Aventureiro beach from the west, we passed the famous tip of Drago, which faces the cove of Praia de Sul.

When the sea is rough, the waves collide with such intensity that the foam can be seen from Parnaioca beach, 9.5 kilometres away. The name comes from a curious rock formation that resembles a lizard, a reptile or a dragon, depending on your imagination;

22. AVENTUREIRO BEACH

A beach with crystal-clear, warm waters, small waves and a cluster of rocks forming a natural pool cut by a lying coconut tree. It looks like a scene from the cinema, but it’s real, and only Praia do Aventureiro can give us such a beautiful image.

From time to time there is a phenomenon in the waters, where the seaweed comes to the beach and stays   to the   flavour  of the  waves,   forming,   on  moonlit  nights, a real sky in the sea, with the reflection of the moonlight hitting the seaweed, an unforgettable sight.

The beach has small bars and a few fishermen’s houses that serve as guesthouses for tourists, and camping is only allowed on private land.

In recent years, during the summer, the beach has become very busy, with many beautiful people parading along the fine sand of Aventureiro.

23. PRAIA DO DEMO

Praia do Demo is a deserted beach; there are no homes or electricity in the area. Its imposing waves break along its rocky shore, known as the “Costão do Demo”.

Although many surfers are seen in the area, this beach is not ideal for surfing due to the high risk of accidents; lovers of the sport will find ideal conditions at the neighbouring Praia do Aventureiro.

Navigation in the area is not recommended on rough sea days, especially when crossing the challenging tips of Drago and Meros. During the summer season, access is controlled by the environmental authorities.

Praia do Demo shares its surroundings with the beaches of Aventureiro and Praia do Sul, forming a setting of unique natural beauty.

24. PRAIA DO SUL

We can’t talk about Praia do Sul without first mentioning Praia do Demo, which is the only road that leads to the beach. It’s called Praia do Demo because of its rocky coastline, which bears the same name “Pedra do Demo”.

Legend has it that on a moonlit night, the daughter of a local fisherman, enchanted by the reflection of the moon on the rocks, went to meet the light   climbing up the   wall   of rocks, when she was caught by the waves of the wild sea, leaving   the imprint of her feet stuck in the rocks.

of her feet embedded in the stones. Pedra do Demo is the path that takes us to Praia do Sul and we must be careful when crossing it so as not to have any accidents, because on rough sea days the waves tend to “lick” the rocks, making the path very difficult and slippery. At the end of the walk you’ll see a sign indicating the start of the Praia do Sul Biological Reserve and from there you’ll find several kilometres of sand, sun and sea.

The beach is ideal for surfing, as it has well-defined waves with marvellous tubes. Don’t forget two important details: bring your own snacks and a bag to take out the rubbish, as the beach is completely deserted and there are no options for shopping.

25. EAST BEACH

This beach is also part of the Praia do Sul Biological Reserve and has the same characteristics: many kilometres of sand, sun and sea. Its main attraction, however, is the Lagoa do Leste.

A lagoon with Coca-Cola coloured waters that flow into the sea, transforming the border between Praia do Sul and Praia do Leste into a pool of warm, crystal-clear waters. We used to be able to hike up the river to the eastern lagoon, but IBAMA no longer allows it without a specialised escort.

without a specialised escort, as there are many snakes that like to sunbathe on the riverbank, making the journey dangerous.

Locals say that the erosion seen on the east coast was caused by the Indians who inhabited the area many years ago. They used the coastline to carve the points for their arrows.

26. PARNAIOCA BEACH

Sparsely inhabited, with a river that flows into the green waters of the sea and small waves, it’s the ideal setting for those looking for plenty of nature.

The hike up the waterfall trail is a must for those who enjoy a cold dip in the river’s waters. During the summer it’s common to find a stall selling beer and soft drinks, but at other times the beach is practically deserted.

beach is practically deserted, a paradise for those who like sun, shade and fresh water.

Most boat trips don’t include Parnaioca on their itineraries, as it’s on the outside of the island. The boat journey from Angra to Parnaioca takes approximately 3.30 hours, but it’s definitely worth it.

27. BRAVA DAS PALMAS BEACH

Praia Brava das Palmas (Palmas Cove) is a place surrounded by nature, with a stunning sea and incredible trails. This small, secluded beach offers a tranquil experience, where the spirit of daring, adventure and thirst for the unknown are outstanding characteristics.

The sea at Praia Brava das Palmas is predominantly calm, allowing for moments of tranquillity. Surrounded by the lush Atlantic Rainforest, visitors can enjoy the presence of exotic birds, as well as monkeys and squirrels that visit the area. However, the sunrise on the horizon of the open sea is the great attraction of Enseada de Palmas, offering an unmissable spectacle for visitors.

28. VILA DE DOIS RIOS

Vila de Dois rios is the place on Ilha Grande where one of Brazil’s largest prisons used to operate, the Candido Mendes Penal Institute, which was imploded on 3 April 1994.

Today the village is administered by the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), which in 1995 set up an advanced Environmental Sciences Centre for biological and oceanographic research.

The best way to get there is to walk along the clay road that connects Vila do Abraão to Dois Rios. Approximately 12 kilometres, half uphill and half downhill, there are no bars or restaurants along the way, but the beautiful scenery and the contact with the Atlantic Rainforest are well worth the effort.

Right at the entrance to the village there are huge coconut palms, and further on we see the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Bom Despacho and around 40 houses with semi-deserted streets, a mysterious setting that describes the living history of Dois Rios.

A beach approximately 1 kilometre long, clear waters and open sea, two rivers that flow into it and give the town its name and the rubble of the old prison make the town a place of legends and stories, always sought after by tourists.

29. CAXADAÇO BEACH

Caxadaço Beach is a small stretch of sand hidden between rocks and forests. It can be reached by boat or by taking the Abraão x Dois Rios trail. Just before arriving at the village of Dois Rios, a path on the left will take you to Caxadaço beach.

There is plenty of water to quench your thirst, but there are no shops in the village.

30. SANTO ANTONIO

Santo Antônio Beach is small, discreet and very pleasant. It has similar characteristics to its large neighbour Lopes Mendes, with fine white sand and is very popular for surfing.

Santo Antônio is a “very rocky” beach, with several huge boulders vying for space on the strip of sand.

The freshwater stream that flows into the sands of the beach and the view of Jorge Grego Island in front of it complete the perfect setting.  The sea is rough with lots of big rocks.

The trail to Santo Antônio beach is easy and short, with slightly uneven terrain and little dense vegetation.

31. LOPES MENDES BEACH

Lopes Mendes beach is fantastic, the open sea provides high waves, which makes it a favourite with surfers. Boat trips don’t usually reach it, as there is no pier for mooring. The boats usually stay in Palmas, from where we set off on a trail, which takes around 30 minutes.

On this trail we will have some fantastic views that emphasise the harmony between the sea and the Atlantic Forest.

The trail is characterised by a steep climb, which becomes very slippery when it’s raining, so be careful.

At the end you’ll find fine sand and flat terrain, from where you can already hear the sea lapping.

Camping is not allowed on or near the beach and there are no bars or hostels.

32. CASTELHANOS LIGHTHOUSE

At the eastern end of Ilha Grande, near the island of Guriri, is the Castelhanos Lighthouse, built in the 19th century and practically hidden by the region’s native forest.

33. MANGUES BEACH

Praia dos Mangues is one of the most famous beaches on the island, especially as it is home to the pier where many of the tourists who want to visit Lopes Mendes Beach disembark. Most of these trips are by schooner from other villages on the island, which drop the tourists off for a 20-minute walk to Lopes Mendes.

Praia dos Mangues is a beautiful, quiet, cosy beach with unparalleled beauty, perfect for spending the day with friends and relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of Abraão. If you’re looking for a relaxing place full of peace and tranquillity, staying here for a while might be a good idea.

34. ENSEADA DE PALMAS

Enseada de Palmas is very busy in the summer. It is the arrival point for the sloop trips to Lopes Mendes beach. Enseada is home to a palm beach, mangroves and a landing.

According to historians, the Palmas cove was one of the most inhabited on Ilha Grande during the 19th century.

It’s about a 30-minute walk from the mangrove beach to Lopes Mendes. There is no electricity and no public services

35. ABRAÃOZINHO BEACH

Camping is forbidden and there are no guesthouses. Abraãozinho is a beach to go to in the morning and return to in the afternoon, ideal for swimming, kayaking and snorkelling off the coast.

2. TRAILS OR TREKKING

Throughout Ilha Grande there are trails that connect the beaches to each other. You’ll certainly need plenty of time to get to know them and enjoy the walks you can take.

Known as one of the most beautiful places in Brazil, Ilha Grande makes adventurers want to explore it from end to end. With this in mind, this itinerary aims to present the island in a way it has never been seen before, that is, by taking a complete tour around deserted beaches and plenty of Atlantic Rainforest.

An itinerary for lovers of authentic crossings, involving walks along deserted beaches with crystal-clear waters, trails in the middle of the Atlantic Forest, mangroves, rocky shores and great challenges.

Trails that cut across the 193km² of Ilha Grande lead to beaches, waterfalls and secrets – you just need to be willing and have a spirit of adventure. Maps with the location of the sights to be visited are easy to find, both on the internet and on the island itself.

Trails

1. Circuito do Abraão – 1,700 m to 1,900 m – 1 to 1h30 min
2. Aqueduto / Saco do Céu – 5,800 m to 6,000 m – 3h to 3h30 min
3. Saco do Céu / Freguesia de Santana – 3,800 m to 4,000 m – 2h to 2h30 min
4. Freguesia de Santana / Bananal – 2,700 m to 3,000 m – 1h to 1h30 min
5. Bananal / Sitio Forte – 4,900 m to 5,000 m – 2h30 min to 3h
6. Sitio Forte / Praia Grande de Araçatiba – 6,000 m to 6,200 m – 3h to 3h30 min
7. Praia Grande de Araçatiba / Gruta do Acaiá – 5,200 to 5,400 – 3h to 3h30 min
8. Praia Grande de Araçatiba / Provetá – 4,500 m to 4,700 m – 2h30 min to 3h
9. Provetá / Aventureiro – 3,500 m to 3,700 m – 2h 30 min 3h
10. Abraão/Mangues/Pouso – 5,800 m to 6,000 m – 2h30 min to 3h
11. Mangues/Pouso / Lopes Mendes – 1,000 m to 1,200 m – 30 min to 1h
12. Mangues/Pouso – Farol dos Castelhanos – 5,800 m to 6,000 m – 3h to 3h30 min
13. Abraão / Pico do Papagaio – 5,700 m to 5,900 m – 3h 3h30 min
14. Abraão / Dois Rios – 6,800 m to 7,000 m – 2h30 min – 3h
15. Two Rivers / Caxadaço 4,100 m to 4,300 m – 2h 2h30 min
16. Dois Rios / Parnaioca – 7,600 m to 7,800 m – 3h to 3h 30 min

The following trails are not shown on the signs on Ilha Grande, but they serve as a warning for trekking:

1. Saco do Céu x Bananal – 3,000 m to 3,200 m – 1h30 min (difficult access. Requires experience)
2. Longa x Lagoa do Sul – (impossible to complete and totally closed off by the forest)
3. Provetá x Praia do Meros – 6,800 m to 7,000 m – 2h30 min – 3h (trail closed by forest)
4. Parnaioca x Praia do Leste – 1,500 m to 1,700 m – 0:40 to 1h (requires permission from IBAMA)
5. Caxadaço x Stº Antonio – 3,000 m to 3,200 m – 1h30 min (difficult access. Experience required)

3. Dois Rios Prison and Lazareto Foundation

Ilha Grande is known for its rich history, and a significant part of that history involves the prisons that once existed on the island. The most famous of these is the Presídio de Dois Rios, which was one of the most feared and notorious in Brazil. Here’s an overview of Ilha Grande’s prisons:

1. Colônia Penal de Dois Rios

• Origin and Purpose: The Dois Rios Prison, originally called the Cândido Mendes Penal Colony, was inaugurated in 1903. It was built on the site of the former Fazenda Dois Rios, which had previously been used to house a correctional colony.
• Function: Initially, the penal colony was created to receive ordinary prisoners who worked in agriculture, cultivating the land and helping to maintain the island’s infrastructure. Over time, the prison’s function changed and it began to house political prisoners during the Estado Novo, under Getúlio Vargas, and later, during the military dictatorship.
• Famous Inmates: Among the best-known prisoners who passed through Dois Rios are the writer Graciliano Ramos, who recounted his experience in the book “Memórias do Cárcere”, and other political prisoners, especially during the military dictatorship (1964-1985).
• Closure: The prison was closed in 1994 after complaints of overcrowding and poor living conditions. Today, the ruins of the prison are a tourist attraction, and part of the site has been transformed into the Cárcere Museum, which preserves the memory of its history.

2. Ilha Grande Prison

• Previous History: Before the Dois Rios prison was built, Ilha Grande was already home to a prison in the 19th century. In 1884, the Lazareto was built, a quarantine hospital for immigrants, which was later transformed into a prison. This first prison was deactivated at the beginning of the 20th century, giving way to the Dois Rios Penal Colony.

3. Prison Museum

• Location and Purpose: The Cárcere Museum is located in the ruins of the former Dois Rios prison. It was created to preserve the history of the prison and educate the public about the periods when the island served as a place of confinement for common criminals and political prisoners.
• Exhibitions: The museum displays documents, photographs and objects related to the history of the prison and the lives of the inmates. There is also information about the history of the island and its transformation over the years.

4. Impact on the island

• Local Population: The presence of the prisons influenced the island’s demographics and economy. Many families living on Ilha Grande today are descendants of former guards, prison employees or former inmates.
• Tourism: The ruins of the prisons and the Prison Museum are now tourist attractions that attract visitors interested in the island’s history, complementing the natural beauty that makes Ilha Grande a popular destination.

The history of the prisons on Ilha Grande reflects an important part of Brazil’s penal and political history, making the island not only an ecotourism destination, but also a place of great historical interest.

How to get to Ilha Grande

Getting to Ilha Grande, located on the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, involves a combination of land and sea transport. Here are the main options:

1. Land Transport to the Harbour

To get to Ilha Grande, you first need to travel to one of the harbours from which boats leave for the island. The main harbours are:

• Conceição de Jacareí: This is the closest and most popular departure point, especially for those coming from Rio de Janeiro.
• Angra dos Reis: Another popular option, with several daily boat departures.
• Mangaratiba: Also offers transport to Ilha Grande, but with fewer timetable options.

By car

• From Rio de Janeiro: The journey to Conceição de Jacareí takes around 2 and a half hours, using the BR-101 (Rio-Santos).
• From São Paulo: It takes around 6 hours to get to Angra dos Reis via the Rodovia dos Imigrantes and BR-101.

You can park your car in car parks near the ports, as vehicles are not allowed on the island.

By bus

• Rio de Janeiro to Conceição de Jacareí or Angra dos Reis: There are regular buses leaving from Rodoviária Novo Rio operated by companies such as Costa Verde. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
• São Paulo to Angra dos Reis: Companies such as Reunidas Paulista operate this route, which takes around 6 hours.

2. Sea Crossing to Ilha Grande

Once in port, you need to take a boat to cross to the island. Options include:

Boats and Speedboats

• From Conceição de Jacareí: Speedboats are the fastest way, taking around 20 minutes to Vila do Abraão, the main town on Ilha Grande.
• From Angra dos Reis: There are options of speedboats (30 to 40 minutes) and conventional boats (1h30 to 2 hours).
• From Mangaratiba: The journey to Abraão takes around 1h30 by conventional boat.

Times and Prices

• Fast boats: These are more frequent and a little more expensive, with departures usually every hour.
• Conventional boats: Cheaper, but with fewer departures and slower.

Arrival at Ilha Grande

Most boats arrive at Vila do Abraão, which is the main town on the island and the starting point for exploring the various attractions. From there, you can continue on foot, by boat or by taxi boat to other beaches and trails on the island.

Important Tips

• Check the timetables: Boat timetables can vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions.
• Buying tickets: Can be done in advance, especially in high season, to guarantee your place.
• Carry cash: Although there are some ATMs on the island, they don’t always work well and many establishments don’t accept cards.

By following these steps, you will arrive at Ilha Grande and be able to enjoy its natural wonders.

Also get to know Brazil’s continental islands,  Ilhabela, Ilha Grande and Santa Catarina Island and oceanic islands like Fernando de Noronha, Atol das Rocas, Archipelago of São Pedro and São Paulo and Trindade e Martim Vaz.

Travel Guide to Ilha Grande in Rio de Janeiro