Mambucaba Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful city of Mambucaba on Brazil's Costa Verde with our ultimate guide to the best attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, and tips for safe and healthy travel.


Brazil’s Costa Verde is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural delights, and Mambucaba is one of the best-kept secrets of this stunning region. Located in Rio de Janeiro state, Southeast Brazil, Mambucaba is a charming and peaceful town that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and local culture. Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, Mambucaba has something for everyone. Let’s explore the ultimate guide to this hidden gem of Brazil!

Introduction to Mambucaba

Mambucaba is a small town located on the Costa Verde, a stretch of land between the Serra do Mar mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The name “Mambucaba” comes from the indigenous language and means “place of the big fish.” The town’s history dates back to the colonial era, when it served as an important port for exporting gold, diamonds, and other minerals to Portugal. Today, Mambucaba is a peaceful and welcoming community that prides itself on its rich heritage and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Mambucaba

If you are planning a trip to Mambucaba, here are some of the top places you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Igreja Nossa Senhora da Guia: This church is one of the town’s most famous landmarks. Built in the 18th century, it has beautiful baroque architecture and is a testament to the town’s rich history.
  • Casa de Cultura de Mambucaba: This cultural center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events related to the town’s cultural heritage. You can learn about local traditions, music, and art here.
  • Ruins of Engenho Central de Mambucaba: These ruins are all that remains of a sugar mill that was once the largest in the region. You can walk through the ruins and learn about the history of sugar production in Brazil.

Natural Attractions of Mambucaba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ilha Grande: This island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. You can hike through the rainforest, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on pristine beaches. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
  • Serra da Bocaina National Park: If you love hiking and birdwatching, this park is perfect for you. It has over 104,000 acres of tropical forest and is home to rare species like the black jaguar and the woolly spider monkey.
  • Praia Grande: This long and sandy beach is one of the most beautiful in the region. You can sunbathe, swim, and try your hand at surfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mambucaba

Mambucaba has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Pico da Pedra Selada: This is a challenging hiking trail that takes you to the top of Pedra Selada mountain. The trail is 6.5 miles long and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Caminho do Ouro: This historic trail was once used by Portuguese explorers to transport gold from Minas Gerais to Paraty. Today, you can walk or bike the trail and learn about the region’s colonial history.
  • Trilha do Corisco: This is a short and easy trail that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. It’s a great option if you want to take a break from the beach and enjoy some nature.

Best Things to Do in Mambucaba: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and beach hopping, here are some other fun things to do in Mambucaba:

  • Boat Tours: You can take a boat tour of the region and explore hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat.
  • Paragliding: For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding over the lush rainforest and stunning coastline of Mambucaba.
  • Cachaça Tasting: Cachaça is a popular Brazilian liquor made from sugarcane. You can visit local distilleries and taste different varieties of cachaça.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Rent a bicycle and explore the town at your own pace. There are plenty of scenic routes and hidden spots to discover.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mambucaba

If you are planning a week-long trip to Mambucaba, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Relax at Praia Grande
2 Take a boat tour of the region
3 Hike Pico da Pedra Selada
4 Visit Igreja Nossa Senhora da Guia and Casa de Cultura de Mambucaba
5 Explore the rainforest in Serra da Bocaina National Park
6 Try paragliding or cachaça tasting
7 Rent a bike and explore the town

Food and Drink Scene of Mambucaba

When it comes to food and drink, Mambucaba has some delicious local specialties to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Feijão Tropeiro: This is a traditional bean stew that originated in Minas Gerais but is popular throughout Brazil. It’s made with beans, sausage, bacon, eggs, and cassava flour.
  • Moqueca: This is a seafood stew that is cooked in a clay pot with coconut milk, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. It’s a staple dish of the Bahia region, but you can find it in Mambucaba too.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: As mentioned earlier, cachaça is a popular Brazilian liquor made from sugarcane. It’s usually enjoyed in caipirinhas, but you can also try it straight up or in cocktails.
  • Mate: This is a type of tea that is popular in South America. It’s made from dried leaves of the yerba mate plant and is a great alternative to coffee.

Where to Stay in Mambucaba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mambucaba has a variety of accommodations to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences:

  • Hostel Pousada do Ghiotto: This hostel is located in the town center and offers affordable accommodation with a communal kitchen and free Wi-Fi.
  • Pousada Canto Verde: This guesthouse is located near Praia Grande and has a swimming pool and barbecue facilities.
  • Pousada da Pedra: This hotel is located on the outskirts of town and offers stylish rooms with balconies and mountain views.

What to Buy in Mambucaba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some souvenirs or gifts for your friends and family, here are some local products to consider:

  • Cachaça: As mentioned before, cachaça is a popular local liquor that makes a great gift.
  • Handicrafts: You can find beautiful handicrafts made by local artisans, including woven baskets, pottery, and wood carvings.
  • Cheese: Mambucaba is known for its delicious cheese, which you can buy at local farmers’ markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Mambucaba

Brazil is a diverse country with many different customs and traditions, and Mambucaba is no exception. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Religion: The majority of people in Mambucaba are Catholic, so you may see many religious icons and symbols around town.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, but many people in Mambucaba also speak English and Spanish.
  • Etiquette: Brazilians are generally friendly and welcoming, so don’t be surprised if you are greeted with hugs and kisses on the cheek. It’s also common to tip 10% at restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Mambucaba

Mambucaba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round. The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is sunny and dry. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful vacation, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to June or September to November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Mambucaba

To have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Mambucaba, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try local food and drink.
  • Pack sunscreen and insect repellent.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach.
  • Swim in unsafe or unmarked areas.
  • Overdo it with alcohol.

Safety and Health

Mambucaba is a safe and welcoming town, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Mambucaba

  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables.
  • Use official taxis or transportation services to get around.
  • Beware of ocean currents and follow lifeguard instructions on the beach.

Health in Mambucaba

  • Drink bottled water or filtered water.
  • Apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
  • Pack any necessary medications and travel insurance.

Getting to Mambucaba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mambucaba is located approximately 100 miles (160 km) from Rio de Janeiro city. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Mambucaba

  • Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport: This is the largest airport in Rio de Janeiro and is located approximately 96 miles (155 km) from Mambucaba.
  • São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport: This is the largest airport in Latin America and is located approximately 180 miles (290 km) from Mambucaba.

Bus Stations Near Mambucaba

  • Angra dos Reis Bus Station: This is the closest bus station to Mambucaba and is located approximately 16 miles (25 km) from town. Buses run regularly from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Other Options

  • Private Transfer: You can also arrange for a private transfer from Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo to Mambucaba.

How to Get Around in Mambucaba

Mambucaba is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. You can also take taxis or public transportation to get around the region.

Where to Go Next from Mambucaba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Paraty: This charming colonial town is located approximately 18 miles (30 km) from Mambucaba and is known for its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and seafood restaurants.
  • Trindade: This beach town is located approximately 35 miles (55 km) from Mambucaba and offers some of the best beaches in the region, including Praia do Meio and Praia do Cepilho.
  • Rio de Janeiro: The bustling city of Rio de Janeiro is located approximately 100 miles (160 km) from Mambucaba and offers endless attractions, from Christ the Redeemer to Copacabana Beach.

Conclusion

Mambucaba may be a small town, but it is packed with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Whether you are looking to hike through the rainforest, soak up the sun on the beach, or taste delicious local cuisine, Mambucaba has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best-kept secret of Brazil’s Costa Verde!