Iguape Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs of Iguape, Brazil in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Iguape

Iguape is a charming colonial town located in the southern coast of São Paulo, Brazil, in the region known as Vale do Ribeira. Founded in the 16th century, Iguape is a historical gem, with beautiful architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. Surrounded by lush vegetation and with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Iguape is also a wonderful destination for outdoor adventures. Its gastronomy is known for its seafood and traditional dishes, and for its hospitality that welcomes visitors with open arms.

List of Places to Visit in Iguape

Here is a list of must-visit places in Iguape:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Iguape Historical Archive – showcasing the rich history of Iguape and its cultural heritage, including documents and artifacts dating back to the colonial period.
  • Matriz Basilica of Our Lady of the Conception – a magnificent 18th-century church with Baroque and Rococo style architecture and beautiful artwork.
  • Fandango Museum - homage to the traditional dance of Vale do Ribeira, with exhibits on costumes, instruments, and history.
  • Casa da Praça - a restored colonial house that hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.

Natural Attractions of Iguape: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Juréia-Itatins Ecological Reserve – a vast protected area with preserved Atlantic Forest, hiking trails, and stunning beaches.
  • Mar Pequeno – a picturesque lagoon with clear water, ideal for swimming and kayaking.
  • Praia do Leste – a quiet beach with powdery sands and calm waves, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Paranapiacaba River Trail – a scenic trail that follows the river through the jungle, with waterfalls and natural pools along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Iguape

If you enjoy hiking or biking, here are some routes you should not miss:

  • Trilha Ecológica do Rio Perequê – a 7km trail that runs along the river, passing through the forest and by waterfalls.
  • Trilha do Tijuco Preto – a 15km trail that leads to the Paranapiacaba River, with stunning views of the valley and the Atlantic Forest.
  • Caminho do Artesão – a 5km trail that connects Iguape to Ilha Comprida, with stops at artisanal workshops along the way.

Best Things to Do in Iguape: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Iguape has something for everyone. Some of the best things to do in Iguape include:

  • Go on a Fandango Night – experience Vale do Ribeira’s traditional dance and music, with a live performance and a chance to dance along.
  • Take a Boat Tour – explore the lagoon and the estuary ecosystems, watching birds, dolphins, and other wildlife.
  • Visit a Caiçara Community – learn about the traditional lifestyle and culture of the coastal communities, tasting typical food and hearing stories of the sea.
  • Take a Cooking Class – learn how to prepare traditional dishes, such as moqueca, pirão, and banana cake, with local chefs.
  • Relax on the Beach – take a swim, sunbathe, or read a book on one of the nearby beaches, such as Ilha Comprida, Cananéia, or Peruíbe.

Week-Long Itinerary for Iguape

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week in Iguape:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Historical Archive and the Matriz Basilica
2 Hike the Trilha Ecológica do Rio Perequê and visit the Fandango Museum
3 Take a boat tour and relax on the beach
4 Visit a Caiçara community and take a cooking class
5 Hike the Trilha do Tijuco Preto and visit the Casa da Praça
6 Relax on the beach and watch the sunset
7 Explore nearby destinations and excursions, such as Cananéia or Ilha Comprida

Food and Drink Scene of Iguape

Iguape’s cuisine is influenced by the region’s geography, climate, and history, with seafood, cassava, and local fruits as main ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Moqueca ribeirense – a fish stew with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and coconut milk, served with rice and pirão (a cassava-based gravy).
  • Bolinho caiçara – a savory fritter made with fish, cassava flour, and seasonings, served with hot sauce.
  • Torta de banana – a sweet cake made with ripe bananas, cinnamon, sugar, and coconut.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça – a distilled spirit made from sugarcane, used in many cocktails, such as caipirinha and batida.
  • Chá de erva-cidreira – a refreshing tea made from lemon balm, often served cold with sugar or honey.
  • Suco de cambuci – a juice made from the fruit of the cambuci tree, which has a tart and unique flavor.

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

Iguape offers a range of accommodation options, from simple hostels to cozy guesthouses and luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Pousada Solar da Pedra – a charming guesthouse with colonial architecture, a pool, and a garden, located in the historical center of Iguape.
  • Ilha do Mel Praia Hotel – a beachfront hotel with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a spa.
  • Viva Mar Hotel – a budget-friendly hotel with simple rooms, a restaurant, and a tour desk.
  • Hostel Caiçara – a hostel with shared and private rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a lounge area.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts, here are some suggestions:

  • Fandango crafts – handmade instruments, costumes, and decor items related to Vale do Ribeira’s traditional dance.
  • Cachaça and sweets – local brands of sugarcane spirit and traditional sweets made of bananas, coconut, or cassava.
  • Artisanal ceramics – pottery and clay products made by local artists, with unique designs and colors.
  • Handmade jewelry – accessories made with natural materials, such as seeds, shells, or stones, by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Iguape

Iguape’s locals are proud of their heritage and traditions, and are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors. One of the most unique aspects of the local culture is the Fandango, a traditional dance style with lively rhythms and colorful costumes. The craftmanship of the community is also remarkable, with artisans dedicated to pottery, weaving, and woodworking. The Caiçara people, who live along the coast, have a rich history and folklore, with stories and legends related to the sea and the land. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local traditions and engage with the cultural activities and events.

Best Time to Visit Iguape

Iguape has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity all year round. The rainy season usually occurs from November to March, with occasional heavy downpours, and the dry season from June to August, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. The peak season for tourism is during summer, from December to February, when the beaches and attractions are crowded and prices are higher. For those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed environment, visiting in spring or autumn may be a good option.

Do’s and Don’ts of Iguape

Here are some tips to make your visit to Iguape more enjoyable and respectful:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions – try to learn about the history and culture of the region, and engage with the local events and activities.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun – bring enough water, sunscreen, and a hat or umbrella, especially during hiking or beach activities.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine and drinks – try the traditional dishes and beverages, and support the local businesses.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter behind – make sure to dispose of your waste properly, and avoid leaving any garbage on the streets, beaches, or parks.
  • Disrespect the wildlife or nature – refrain from feeding, touching, or harming any plants or animals, and respect the natural resources of the region.
  • Be loud or disruptive at night – avoid making noise or disturbing the peace of the neighborhoods, especially during the night hours.

Safety and Health

Iguape is considered a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it’s recommended to take some precautions, such as not leaving valuable items unattended, avoiding dark or isolated areas at night, and following the common safety rules of any urban or rural area. In terms of health, it’s advisable to have updated vaccines and to bring mosquito repellent, as some areas may have dengue, Zika, or other mosquito-borne diseases. The tap water in Iguape is safe for drinking, but bottled water is also widely available.

Getting to Iguape: Transportation Options and Logistics

Iguape is located about 180km from São Paulo city, and can be reached by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Iguape

The closest airport to Iguape is São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), located about 200km away. From GRU, you can rent a car or take a shuttle bus to Iguape.

Bus Stations Near Iguape

There are several bus companies that operate trips from São Paulo to Iguape, with daily departures from the Tietê Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 3 hours and costs around BRL 50-70. You can also take a bus from other nearby cities, such as Registro or Cananéia.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a private transfer from São Paulo, which can be a more convenient and flexible option. The trip takes about 2.5 hours and follows the BR-116 and SP-055 highways, passing through scenic landscapes and small towns.

How to Get Around in Iguape

Iguape is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available, but may be more expensive. If you’re planning to visit the nearby attractions or beaches, you may want to rent a car or a scooter, which can be arranged at the local rental agencies or with your hotel.

Where to Go Next from Iguape: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you could consider:

  • Cananéia – a charming historic town and fishing port, with a rich biodiversity and ecotourism options.
  • Ilha Comprida – a long and peaceful beach town, with several outdoor activities, such as kitesurfing, stand-up paddle, and fishing.
  • Bananal – a preserved colonial town, with numerous waterfalls, trails, and a craft market.
  • Curitiba – a cosmopolitan and cultural city, located about 4 hours away from Iguape, with famous parks, museums, and gastronomy.

Conclusion

Iguape is a unique and multifaceted destination, with a rich history, beautiful nature, and delicious gastronomy. Whether you’re looking for culture, adventure, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of São Paulo’s southern coast. Just remember to respect the local customs, take care of the environment, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. Happy travels!

Lagamar in Iguape. Lagamar in Iguape. ''Casa de Fundição'' is one of the oldest constructions of the city. ''Casa de Fundição'' is one of the oldest constructions of the city.