Just a few hours’ drive from Rio de Janeiro, the historical community of Paraty really is something special. History and architecture buffs will adore strolling around the historical centre, with its cobblestoned streets and whitewashed colonial buildings. Nature lovers will appreciate the distant mountains and relaxed beaches.
What makes Paraty special?
The pace of life here is slow. There’s plenty of time to gaze out towards the mountains and wander past fishing boats bobbing in the water. There’s nothing like spending an afternoon strolling among the uneven, cobbled streets of the historic centre. It’s incredible to think about the manpower it must have taken to build this town back in the late 17th century. Paraty was a bustling port during the Brazilian Gold Rush, built on the back of the slave trade.
Due to Portuguese design innovation, the cobblestoned streets regularly flood with the rising tides, washing the passageways clean, taking dirt and debris out to sea. Be sure to take a walk around the waterfront Capela de Santa Rita, a whitewashed church built in 1722.
The younger crowd will love Praia do Pontal, a waveless beach with shady trees just a short walk from town, where funky kiosks serve cheap drinks and great food by the water.
Things to do in Paraty
For nature lovers, Paraty is surrounded by rainforests, beaches and waterfalls. Schooner boat tours are a popular way of seeing the islands and swimming spots. Or you can take a short bus trip to the nearby village of Penha. Here you’ll find a river and waterfall buried amongst the trees. Enjoy the view over the water from the rope bridge and eat a hearty lunch in the great restaurant on-site. If you’re feeling daring, there’s a tall, steep rock face covered in slippery moss which acts as a natural waterslide.
After trying it once, I couldn’t wipe the smile from my face – it was like being five years old again! I even saw some Brazilian kids surfing on the rock (above). However, that takes much more balance and skill than I could ever muster.
The bars, restaurants and pousadas here are a showcase of what Brazil does best – al fresco dining, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors. Bringing sophistication together with spectacular wilderness and reminding you that the best things in life are free.
How to get to Paraty
By car – from Rio de Janeiro
Take the BR101 highway from Rio de Janeiro for around 3.5 hours. Please note that the historical centre is car-free. So, if your pousada is there, please contact them to find out where to leave your car.
By bus – from Rio de Janeiro
Costa Verde Transportes operate a bus from Novo Rio Rodoviária (bus station) to Paraty. One way cost for Paraty R$99,05.
Also, if you have luggage – particularly luggage with wheels – and you are arriving in the historical centre on foot, ask your pousada to send a porter to assist you.
Last updated: 25 Nov, 2023