Paraty, a charming colonial town nestled between lush mountains and the stunning Costa Verde of Brazil, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking history, culture, and natural beauty. With its cobblestone streets, vibrant art scene, and breathtaking beaches, Paraty offers a little something for everyone.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to spend three days in Paraty, based on my own experience visiting this amazing historic town.
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Day 1: Explore the Historic Center and Trindade Beaches
Morning: Stroll Through the Historic Center
Begin your adventure in Paraty by exploring its beautifully preserved historic center. Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed colonial buildings, colorful doors, and charming balconies. Key sites to visit include the Church of Santa Rita, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the House of Culture. Take your time to absorb the unique atmosphere and history that permeates this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit Local Art Galleries and Shops
Paraty is known for its vibrant art scene. Spend some time visiting local art galleries and shops where you can find unique handicrafts, jewelry, and artworks by local artists.
Afternoon: Relax at Trindade Beaches
Spend your afternoon in the nearby village of Trindade, famous for its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe. Take a bus or a taxi from Paraty to Trindade, and explore beaches like Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and the natural pool of Cachadaço. Praia do Meio is great for swimming and sunbathing, while Praia do Cachadaço offers a more rugged, secluded experience. The natural pool of Cachadaço, surrounded by rocks, provides calm waters perfect for snorkeling. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and the laid-back atmosphere of this beach paradise.
Evening: Dinner and Live Music
Return to Paraty for dinner. Paraty offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Brazilian fare to international cuisine. For a memorable dining experience, try one of the restaurants along Rua do Comércio or Rua da Lapa. After dinner, enjoy some live music at one of the local bars or cafes, where you can listen to Brazilian rhythms such as samba and bossa nova.
Day 2: Visit the Gold Trail, learn about Cachaça, and cool off in a waterfall
Morning: Visit the Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro)
Start your second day with a visit to the Gold Trail, an ancient path used during the colonial era to transport gold from the mines in Minas Gerais to the ports of Paraty. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the trail, the hardships faced by enslaved Africans who built it, and the rich flora and fauna of the Atlantic Forest. The trail offers stunning views and a deep dive into Brazil’s colonial past. The tour usually includes stops at historical ruins and beautiful lookout points, providing an insightful and scenic experience.
Afternoon: Visit a Cachaça Distillery
Spend your afternoon visiting one of the local distilleries, such as Engenho D’Ouro or Paratiana. These distilleries offer guided tours that take you through the entire production process of cachaça, from sugarcane harvesting to fermentation and distillation. You’ll learn about the traditional methods used and the history of cachaça production in the region. The tours usually conclude with a tasting session, where you can sample different varieties of cachaça and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
Late Afternoon: Cool off by sliding down Toboga Waterfall
After your distillery visit, head to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip. Tobogã Waterfall and Tarzan Falls are popular spots where you can swim in natural pools and slide down smooth rock surfaces into the water. Tobogã Waterfall, also known as the "sliding rock," offers a natural rock slide into a cool, clear pool. Tarzan Falls features a rope swing, allowing visitors to swing out and drop into the water below. The lush surroundings and cool waters provide a perfect end to an adventurous day. These waterfalls are accessible via short hikes through the forest, adding a bit of adventure to your visit.
A fun, unique way to explore Paraty is to take a jeep tour through the jungle, combining a visit to the cachaça distilleries and waterfalls into an adrenaline filled day-trip. See here for more info.
Evening: Dinner in a Jungle Restaurant
For dinner, try one of Paraty’s unique jungle restaurants. These restaurants offer delicious meals in a beautiful natural setting, often accompanied by the sounds of the rainforest. Enjoy a memorable dining experience under the stars, surrounded by the lush greenery and the symphony of nighttime wildlife.
Day 3: Take a boat ride and relax!
Morning: Boat Tour to the Bay of Paraty
Start your final day with a boat tour of the Bay of Paraty. These tours typically depart from the harbor and take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the bay, including Ilha Comprida, Praia da Lula, and Saco do Mamanguá. The tours often include stops at several islands and beaches where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the stunning scenery of emerald waters and lush green islands. Some tours also provide lunch on board or at a beachside restaurant, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Afternoon: Lunch and Beach Time at Praia do Pontal
Head to Praia do Pontal, just a short walk from the historic center. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes and traditional Brazilian cuisine. After lunch, relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, and take in the stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains. Praia do Pontal is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
Evening: Dinner in Paraty
Return to Paraty for your final dinner. Choose a restaurant with a view of the harbor or one tucked away in a quiet corner of the historic center.
Tips for Your Trip to Paraty, Brazil
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Paraty’s cobblestone streets can be uneven, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Getting Around: Uber is readily available within Paraty town, however, if you take an Uber to somewhere further outside of town (such as the waterfalls or cachaça distilleries), you may have trouble getting an Uber back home. Take the phone number of your Uber driver so you can call them directly for a ride home.
Full Moon & High Tide: If possible, it's great to time your visit with the full moon. Paraty's historic center is designed to flood during high tides. The water in the streets reflects the colorful buildings creating a beautiful and unique site. The tide is highest during the full moon.
Bring Cash: While many places accept credit cards, some smaller shops and restaurants may only take cash.
Paraty’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for a three-day getaway. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of the historic center, embarking on a boat tour of the bay, or relaxing on pristine beaches, your time in Paraty will be filled with unforgettable experiences.
Ready to plan your trip?
Need more tips for planning your trip to Paraty? See the full Paraty Destination Guide, with tips on how to get there, how to get around, and more.
Paraty's Bloco de lama, or mud party, is a highlight of Carnival in Brazil. Learn about this unique way to experience Carnival in Paraty.
What is your favorite thing to do in Paraty? Let me know in the comments below!
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