What to See and Do in the Colonial City of Paraty
Located at the southern tip of Rio de Janeiro, Paraty is home to many treasures… Distinctive architecture, pristine beaches and natural pools…
Located at the southern tip of Rio de Janeiro, Paraty is home to many treasures… Distinctive architecture, pristine beaches and natural pools… This town on Brésil's costa verde promises unforgettable memories – even during a short stay! You're wondering what to see and do in the colonial city of Paraty? Here are 5 must-do activities!
1. Explore the UNESCO-Listed Historic Center
Built in 1667 by Portuguese colonists, the town of Paraty retains its old-world atmosphere! Renowned for its colorful-doored houses, the historic downtown (UNESCO-listed since 2019) features numerous buildings with distinctive architecture. During your stay, take time to admire the whitewashed churches in particular. Absolutely stunning!
This fishing village is also known for its port. For two centuries, it was an important transit zone. Gold from Minas Gerais – a neighboring state – was shipped from here to Europe. Today, the port is among the must-visit stops on the famous Gold Route – a circuit dedicated to the country's colonial and cultural history.
2. Discover Cachaça Production – The Essential Experience in Colonial Paraty!
The town of Paraty is also renowned for its cachaça (a distilled spirit made from sugarcane). Considered the cousin of rum, this Brazilian alcohol is the main ingredient in the famous caïpirinha.
Numerous distilleries (often recognized and awarded international prizes) allow you to discover how it's made. Each year in August, the Festival da Pinga takes place… An opportunity to discover local producers while enjoying concerts by renowned Brazilian artists!
3. Discover Waterfalls and Natural Pools
The Penha Natural Waterslide
Beyond its pleasant temperatures and small natural pools nearby, the Penha waterslide offers genuine moments of adventure. The site delights intrepid sliders who glide across the water with skill and grace… Will you give it a try?
The Natural Pool of Cachadaco in Trindade
Located 45 minutes from Paraty, this natural pool is truly worth a quick trip – many buses offer transport for a modest fare. Once you arrive in Trindade, the natural basin is accessible from Praia do Cachadaço, after a 30-minute walk through the forest.
4. Boat Tours and Snorkeling in Paraty Bay
Explore Paraty Bay by Boat
During your colonial tour, be tempted by a boat cruise in Paraty Bay! Several types of excursions are available:
- aboard escunas (tourist schooners), which allow you to discover the most beautiful colonial sites in the city while enjoying the scenic beauty. These excursions last about 5 hours and make several stops on islands and pristine beaches. This type of excursion often offers a bar or dining service – and sometimes even live music!
- on a private tour: depending on your budget, private tours can be customized. You can, for example, determine the cruise duration, choose your itinerary or preferred stops. The captains are often reconverted fishermen who know the bay very well and are experienced guides!
- aboard a small fishing boat: ideal for a special family moment, away from the tourist crowds.
- aboard a sailboat, speedboat, comfortable trawlers, etc.
Discover the Bay by Snorkeling
If scuba diving is difficult to arrange during a short stay, snorkeling is an alternative that will allow you to discover Paraty Bay. It's renowned for its coral reefs and abundant wildlife. Its 3 must-see spots?
- Ilha Comprida: lacking a beach, this island with green and crystalline waters is popular for snorkeling.
- Ilha dos Meros: considered one of the most renowned diving sites, the island is home to numerous fish, turtles and rays.
- Ilha Grande: located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, this UNESCO-listed island is beloved by divers. Once used as a penal colony, far from civilization, it now preserves exceptional wildlife!
5. Enjoy the Beaches and Experience Water Sports
While the beaches of Paraty are never very large, they all dazzle with their beauty. Among them, praia do Jabaquara and praia do sono… Not ideal for swimming (due to surrounding mangroves that cloud the water), Jabaquara beach is perfect for water activities, such as sea kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. The beach of Sono is appreciated for its turquoise waters and spectacular sunsets.
Frequently asked questions
Paraty is located approximately 260 km from Rio de Janeiro. The bus journey (operated by Reunidas or Costa Verde) takes about 4.5 hours and costs between 50 and 80 BRL. By car, allow about 3 hours via the coastal BR-101 route, offering stunning views of the Costa Verde.
The best time to visit Paraty is the dry season, between May and September. August is ideal for attending the Festival da Pinga (cachaça festival). Avoid Carnival season and long weekends if you wish to escape the tourist crowds.
A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to enjoy the historic center, take a boat tour in the bay and visit the surrounding natural pools. For a complete experience including Ilha Grande and Trindade, plan for 4 to 5 days.
The 3 must-see snorkeling spots around Paraty are: Ilha Comprida (green and crystalline waters), Ilha dos Meros (fish, turtles and rays) and Ilha Grande (UNESCO-listed, with exceptional marine biodiversity). These sites are accessible via schooner excursions or private boat tours from Paraty's port.
Cachaça is a Brazilian alcoholic beverage distilled from fermented sugarcane juice. Paraty is one of the most renowned towns for its artisanal production. It is the main ingredient in the caïpirinha. Several local distilleries offer tours and tastings, especially during the Festival da Pinga in August.
