Armazem da Cachaca

Foodies and those who enjoy a tipple should make a beeline for this Paraty institution. In a typical whitewashed build in the historic center, the store sells a seemingly endless array of cachacas, and offers free tastings. Handmade sweets and potent chilli sauces are among the other delicacies on offer.

Address:

Rua Maria Jacome de Mello,

279, Paraty,State of Rio de Janeiro

23970-000, Brazil

Opening hours: Sun-Thu 10am-9pm

Fri 10am-11pm, Sat am-1am (seasonal)

Forte Defensor Perpetuo

This 18th Century fort is a steep climb from the centre of Paraty, and its grounds – complete with cannons – take in sweeping views over the town, its bay and the surrounding mountains.

Address:

Morro da Vila Velha, s/nº, Pontal, Paraty

Entrance (grounds): Free

Bocaina National Park

Paraty sits virtually on the doorstep of this mountainous national park, which extends into both Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo states, and whose thick jungle and towering peaks make it a prime spot for climbing, rappelling, rafting, nature treks and more relaxed jeep tours. Some trips follow the ‘gold road’ to local cachaca distilleries, as well as whisking passengers to natural pools, waterfalls and other beauty spots. There are many local tour operators running trips out to the park,

catering to all types of traveller – from passive nature observer to ardent adventurist. Most hotels and guest houses will be able to arrange trips to suit you. Although there a handful of guesthouses within the park, it is usually visited as a day trip from Paraty.

Saco de Mamanguá

Imagine a Norwegian fjord relocated to the tropics, and you’ll be somewhere close to picturing this low-lying body of water just outside Paraty. The protected reserve is home to more than 30 beaches and wildlife- rich mangroves, and kayaking through the creeks is a popular activity here.

A few simple restaurants serve fresh seafood on the shores. Accessible only by boat, several tour operators in Paraty run excursions out here.

Trindade

This beach town, 30 kilometers south of Paraty, is famous for its lovely unspoiled beaches, many of which can only be reached by hilly trails through the jungle. Buses for Trindade leave Paraty’s bus station on a half- hourly basis, with the first bus leaving at 5.20am and the last at 10pm.  There are some simple guest houses in the town, but Paraty has more accommodation options

Igreja da Santa Rita

The oldest of Paraty’s many churches, the Igreja da Santa Rita sits on the waterfront with a backdrop of palm trees, cloud-shrouded mountains, and is the most famous postcard image of Paraty. Built in 1722 for freed slaves, the simple whitewashed chapel with its bell tower houses a small sacred arts museum, but it’s the external photo opportunities that make it a must-see.

Address: Praça Santa Rita, Paraty Admission R$5 Wed-Sun, free Tuesday Opening hours (can vary in accordance with holidays and major events) Tues- Sun 10am-12pm and 2-5pm.