Costa Verde Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and tips for traveling to Costa Verde, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.


Introduction to Costa Verde

Costa Verde, located in Rio de Janeiro state, is a beautiful region that stretches along the country’s southeastern coast. It is home to picturesque landscapes, turquoise waters, lush forests, charming towns, and a diverse culture that reflects Brazil’s history. Costa Verde’s attractions, combined with its relaxed atmosphere, make it the perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and laid-back experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Costa Verde

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Costa Verde has a rich history, and its cultural sites reflect that. Here are some places that you can visit to learn about the region’s past:

  • Paraty Historic Center: This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and museums that exhibit pieces of the region’s history.

  • Museu do Forte Defensor Perpétuo: This museum showcases the military history of Paraty and includes exhibits of weapons, maps, and tactics used during the colonial era.

  • Fazenda Bananal: This restored colonial farm features architecture from the 18th and 19th century and displays relics from the coffee plantation era.

Natural Attractions of Costa Verde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Costa Verde’s natural beauty is a testament to Brazil’s biodiversity. Whether you’re hiking, relaxing on a beach, or exploring the rainforest, the region offers something for everyone. Here are some natural attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Ilha Grande: This island paradise boasts over 100 beaches, cascading waterfalls, and diverse fauna and flora, including monkeys, parrots, and orchids.

  • Serra da Bocaina National Park: This park is home to some of Brazil’s most diverse fauna and flora. You can explore the park’s trails and mountainscapes on foot or by bike.

  • Saco do Mamanguá: This fjord is a popular spot for kayaking, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Costa Verde

Costa Verde is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife make hiking and biking a must-do activity. Here are some recommended routes:

  • Pico do Pão de Açucar: This challenging trail takes you to the summit of a spectacular mountain with incredible views of Paraty’s coast.

  • Paraty-Cunha Hike: This 8 km trail is a journey through Costa Verde’s remarkable landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views.

  • Costa Verde Circuit: This 200 km trail takes you through the region’s charming towns, beaches, and waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Costa Verde: Activities and Tours

Costa Verde has plenty of activities to offer. From water sports to cultural tours, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Costa Verde:

  • Boat Trip to Ilha Grande: This tour takes you to Ilha Grande’s most beautiful beaches and waterfalls, providing a unique perspective of the island’s beauty.

  • Cachaça Distillery Tour: Learn about the history and making of Brazil’s national drink, cachaça, on a tour of one of the region’s distilleries.

  • Paraty Walking Tour: Discover the history and unique charm of Paraty on a walking tour that takes you through its cobblestone streets, churches, and museums.

Week-Long Itinerary for Costa Verde

If you’re planning to spend a week in Costa Verde, here is a suggested itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of what the region has to offer:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Rio de Janeiro; Transfer to Paraty; Check-in at Accommodation
Day 2 Paraty Walking Tour; Lunch; Beach and Relaxation
Day 3 Boat Trip to Ilha Grande
Day 4 Cachaça Distillery Tour; Visit to Fazenda Bananal
Day 5 Hike in Serra da Bocaina National Park
Day 6 Kayaking in Saco do Mamanguá
Day 7 Transfer to Rio de Janeiro Airport

Food and Drink Scene of Costa Verde

Must-Try Dishes

Costa Verde’s cuisine is influenced by its cultural diversity and natural abundance. Here are some dishes you should try:

  • Moqueca: This traditional Bahian seafood stew is a staple in Costa Verde’s cuisine. It’s a mix of coconut milk, dendê oil, and fresh seafood.

  • Pastel de Palmito: This crispy pastry filled with hearts of palm is a popular snack in the region.

  • Feijão Tropeiro: This hearty dish features beans, meat, bacon, and cassava flour and is often served with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: This sugarcane liquor is the base for Brazil’s most famous drink: Caipirinha. It’s also popular in cocktails or as a digestif.

  • Cerveja Artesanal: Costa Verde has a thriving craft beer scene. Try some of the local brews; they’re often made with regional ingredients, such as fruit and honey.

Where to Stay in Costa Verde: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Costa Verde has a variety of accommodations that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some suggestions for each type:

  • Hotels: Some of the best hotels in Costa Verde are located in Paraty’s historic center, such as Pousada Literária and Pousada do Ouro.

  • Hostels: Che Lagarto Hostel and Paraty Hostel are great budget options that provide comfortable accommodations and social atmospheres.

  • Guesthouses: Casa do Bicho Preguiça and Eco Pousada Sinimbu are excellent guesthouses located in quiet settings close to nature.

What to Buy in Costa Verde: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Costa Verde has a vibrant artistic scene, and its markets and fairs are the perfect places to find unique and handmade souvenirs. Here are some items worth considering:

  • Cachaça: Bring home a bottle of cachaça or two and impress your friends with your mixology skills.

  • Camisa Caiçara: This traditional shirt is a symbol of the region’s cultural identity. It’s usually made of lightweight fabric and features colorful patterns.

  • Handicrafts: From wooden sculptures to woven baskets, Costa Verde’s artisans create a variety of handmade products that represent the region’s cultural diversity.

Local Culture and Customs of Costa Verde

Costa Verde’s cultural heritage is a mix of indigenous, European, and African influences. The region is known for its crafts, music, and culinary traditions, which reflect Brazil’s diversity. Respect for others, hospitality, and friendliness are also part of its culture.

Best Time to Visit Costa Verde

The best time to visit Costa Verde is during its dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is usually sunny and warm, and the seas are calm, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Costa Verde

Do:

  • Learn some Portuguese phrases. Locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak their language.

  • Respect the environment. Costa Verde’s natural beauty is a precious resource that we should protect.

  • Try new foods and drinks. Costa Verde’s cuisine is unique and varied.

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach. Petty theft is common in some areas.

  • Enter the forest without a guide. Costa Verde’s rainforest is beautiful but can be dangerous without someone who knows the trails.

  • Be disrespectful to locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Costa Verde

Costa Verde is generally a safe place to travel. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions:

  • Avoid walking in isolated areas at night.

  • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services instead of unmarked vehicles.

  • Keep your valuables in a safe or secure place.

Health in Costa Verde

Costa Verde has some health risks that travelers should be aware of, such as:

  • Zika and Dengue Fever: These mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent in some areas. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.

  • Sunburn: The sun in Costa Verde is strong, so wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself.

  • Drinking Water: Tap water in Costa Verde is generally not safe to drink; stick to bottled water.

Getting to Costa Verde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Costa Verde

The nearest airport to Costa Verde is Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão International Airport (GIG). From there, you can take a bus or a car to Costa Verde.

Bus Stations Near Costa Verde

The most popular bus station near Costa Verde is located in Rio de Janeiro’s city center. From there, you can take a bus to Paraty, Angra dos Reis, or other locations in the region.

Other Options

If you are coming from São Paulo, you can take a bus to Paraty or Angra dos Reis, which takes around 6 hours. If you’re driving, take the Rio-Santos Highway, which runs through the entire Costa Verde region.

How to Get Around in Costa Verde

The best way to explore Costa Verde is by car. However, if you prefer public transportation, there are buses and boats that connect the region’s towns and beaches. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Costa Verde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve already explored Costa Verde, there are plenty of nearby destinations that you can visit. Here are some ideas:

  • Rio de Janeiro: Explore Brazil’s most famous city and enjoy its beaches, nightlife, and museums.

  • Búzios: This charming coastal town is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and gorgeous beaches.

  • São Paulo: Visit Brazil’s largest city and explore its cultural attractions, architecture, and gastronomy.

Conclusion

Costa Verde has everything a traveler could want: stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and a laid-back atmosphere. Its natural beauty and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination in Brazil.

Santa Rita Chapel, the oldest church in Paraty Santa Rita Chapel, the oldest church in Paraty


    Angra dos Reis
    Ilha Grande
    Mambucaba
    Mangaratiba
    Paraty
    Trindade