Ilha Grande is a 193-square-kilometer forested island off the coast of Angra dos Reis in Rio de Janeiro state, where emerald coves meet Atlantic rainforest and the pace slows to match the rhythm of tidal pools and jungle trails. This car-free paradise demands arrival by boat, which itself becomes part of the appeal—a genuine separation from the mainland hustle that rewards explorers with pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and the raw beauty of Brazil's Atlantic coast. From the charming hub of Abraão Village to remote hiking routes threading through ancient forest, Ilha Grande offers the rare combination of accessibility and authentic wilderness.
Key Attractions
View all attractions →Abraão Village
Abraão is a charming coastal village and the main settlement on Ilha Grande, where colorful houses cascade down to a pristine bay surrounded by lush Atlantic Forest mountains. This bohemian enclave feels wonderfully disconnected from the mainland—no cars, minimal development—where you can wander beachside pathways, stumble upon casual seafood restaurants, and experience genuine island life. The village serves as the gateway to some of Brazil's most spectacular hiking trails and secluded beaches, making it the perfect base for exploring the island's natural treasures.
Atlantic Forest Hiking Trails
Ilha Grande's network of forest trails winds through pristine Atlantic rainforest, leading hikers past hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and endemic wildlife that feels untouched by time. The lush canopy creates a cathedral of green where howler monkeys call and rare birds dart between centuries-old trees. Each trail offers a different window into one of Brazil's most biodiverse ecosystems, from coastal vistas to jungle depths.
Cachadaço Natural Pool
Nestled deep within Ilha Grande's lush Atlantic rainforest, Cachadaço is a hidden waterfall sanctuary where crystalline waters cascade into a refreshing natural pool surrounded by towering green cliffs. The journey to reach this secluded spot rewards adventurers with the chance to swim in pristine mountain waters while surrounded by native flora and the sounds of tropical wildlife. This tranquil oasis feels like a secret whispered only to those willing to venture off the main tourist trails.
Dois Rios (Old Prison – Cândido Mendes)
Nestled deep within Ilha Grande's jungle interior, the crumbling remains of this infamous 19th-century prison tell a haunting story of Brazil's penal history and the resilience of those who survived its harsh conditions. Once one of South America's most notorious detention facilities, the site now offers a somber yet powerful journey through overgrown prison quarters, watchtowers, and cells slowly reclaimed by nature. The atmospheric ruins, named after the two rivers that converge nearby, serve as a poignant reminder of the island's complex past before it became the peaceful eco-tourism destination it is today.
Lagoa Azul (Snorkeling)
Nestled within Ilha Grande's lush interior, Lagoa Azul is a freshwater lagoon renowned for its stunningly clear turquoise waters and abundant marine life visible just beneath the surface. The lagoon offers an intimate snorkeling experience where you can spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and rays in their natural habitat while surrounded by Atlantic Forest vegetation. This hidden gem provides a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches, perfect for those seeking quiet encounters with nature.
Lopes Mendes Beach
Lopes Mendes stretches for nearly two kilometers of pristine golden sand backed by lush Atlantic Forest, creating one of Brazil's most dramatic and unspoiled coastal landscapes. The beach's dramatic position between the ocean and forest-covered mountains gives it an almost untouched wilderness feel, though it remains one of the most sought-after swimming spots on Ilha Grande. Local boat operators depart daily from Vila do Abraão, making this a rewarding half-day excursion for those seeking natural beauty away from crowds.