Getting Around
Paratys is a tranquil, compact town whose historic center is easily explored on foot. The surrounding islands and beaches can be explored by taking
a boat trip – options range from lively group ‘party boats’ to private speedboats – and a host of reputable tour operators run excursions into the surrounding jungle. Cycling and horse riding are pleasurable ways to explore the surrounding countryside, and both can be easily arranged in town. The town is a pleasant journey of around four hours from Rio de Janeiro. Comfortable air conditioned buses with the Costa Verde company leave Rio’s main bus station roughly once an hour, while group transfers are also available.
Wear comfortable sneakers or flip flops – the cobbled streets are not designed for heels – and watch your step, the cobbles are slippery after rains. Cycling is another popular way to see the town, and many agencies offer bicycle rental.
(Paraty Bus Station)
Paraty’s bus station is located around 15 minutes’ walk from the historic center, in the notably less attractive ‘new town. Taxis are readily available, but will rarely be able to take you right to your door if you stay in the pedestrianised historic center – something to bear in mind when packing.
Long-distance and local buses. Regular buses to the beaches of Trindade leave from here.
Rua Jango Padua
Paraty 23970-000
Costa Verde
Comfortable, reliable & regular coach service from Rio (R$70). Tickets can be bought at the bus station on the day or safer in advance – allow plenty of time for queuing. Online ticket sales only with CPF (Brazilian Social Security number). Check availability in advance over public holidays here.
Aguia tour
Reliable private car and minibus transfers between Paraty and Angra, Sao Paulo, Rio and Minas Gerais. Contact Claudio Email Us (24) 99856-8537
Easytransfer group transfers from Rio and from Ilha Grande – the largest of the islands on the Green Coast.
Paraty tours
Boats
Andre of Barco Latitude
(smarter fishing boat type) speaks English Website / Email Us (24) 999999858 from R$600 / day low season including fresh fruits,water and snorqueling equipment.
A smaller, faster boat is “Protecao” by Sr Antonio (aka Tuico), takes 6 guests and is often found at the beginning of the harbour closest to the historic centre. Mobile (24) 92236296 (Portuguese only) approx R$ 100 per hour
Palombeta Speed Boat
Private speed boats, with English speaking guides, trips to nearby beaches and beauty spots such as Mamangua. Boats from R$700/Half day. Hotel pick up. Learn more here
Boat trips can be negotiated at the waterfront and quality vary’s significantly. Very few captains of the smaller boats for private charter speak English. See below for a few of those recommended.
If looking at the bigger boats don’t be shy about asking how many passengers will be aboard if taking a group trip aboard a fishing schooner, many are aimed at a youthful, party crowd – complete with free caipirinhas and loud music – while a few are more sedate affairs.
Transport terminal Rodoviaria de Paraty
Land Excursions
Paraty Explorer Website or Email
Cel: +55 (24) 9 9952 4496 and +55 (24) 9 9941 9178
Tours are led by an experienced and knowledgeable Embratur registered English speaking guides. All trips start and finish in Paraty and include
Mamanguá Sugarloaf Peak, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boat trip, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) inflatable board rental, Sea Kayaking, Green Coast Beaches hike.
Also highly recommended for Gold Trail and walking tours of the historic centre of Paraty is local guide Harry Cowan (fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish) Email Us cel +55 24 999733799
