CandyG

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if anyone could recommend some cool side trips (1 or 2 day trips) from Rio. It's going to be three girls and we were thinking "jungle/beach" adventure. Maybe a reasonably price tour with snorkling/scuba in a more isolated area? Thanks!!

Jill_Brazil

http://www.picinguaba.com/

Pousada Picinguaba might be a good option for you. It is south of Rio not far from Parati. They have a lot of adventure activities.

gypsyluce

hiya, picinguaba is about 4 hours south by car, about 5 or more by bus. I would recommend parati more where you can do horse riding, there are waterfalls, beaches, etc. Or go to Ilha grande, lovely island not too far from rio, with good beaches, bars, diving, boat trips, walks etc. Lots of snorkling too. A great option. You may be really stuck in picinguaba if weather is bad, and not much choice of bars and restaurants around. Another option is to go north of rio to near buzios - arraial do cabo has great beaches and diving and is less touristy and expensive than buzios, but close enough. Have a think and if i can help you more let me know.

Rio_Gal

You could go to Cabo Frio and Buzios for the nice beaches, depending on the time of year, and it is only about 3 hrs. from Rio, by bus. It is also a lot safer in these areas than in Rio. It is winter in Rio in June, July, and part of Aug., so you would be very cold there depending on the time of year you plan to go. Check out:
http://www.pousadacasasbrancas.com.br/

CandyG

Thanks! I think we're leaning towards Parati, Ilha Grande or Buzios. I'm more fond of the rainforest hiking and clean beaches so maybe Ilha Grande will be the best choice since it provides that plus it's closer to Rio.

gypsyluce

hiya,to get to ilha grande is the only slight difficulty. The boat leaves from 2 towns, mangaratiba, closer to rio but at 8am, and angra, nearly 3hrs by bus but in pm, same for return.
look at this website for news
http://www.ilhagrande.com.ar
its cheap and fun, and good snorkeling etc. Parati has trindade nearby with rockpool, waterfalls etc.lovely. let m,e know if i can help more

CandyG

Thanks! We've decided to go to Ilha Grande. I was wondering re private boats to/from the island (from/to Angra and/or Mangaratiba) - are those much more expensive than the regular ferry? I think we're going to end up not making the regular ferry and taking a private boat but I haven't figured out exactly how much more they are...or whether they're easily available. Thanks!