Brazil is home to one of the most beautiful tropical islands off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande (Big Island). When traveling, a common expression you hear from locals in each country is, “You must go to…You can’t leave without visiting…” which never fails to leave a passionate heart wanting more. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to visit everywhere on one journey, but we did our best to fit this particular one in on the route. So, we returned to Brazil after Peru to spend a couple days on the island and see what all the hype was about.  Although our plans were last minute and we lost a few flights along the way due to weather conditions, Ilha Grande was wonderful (especially after the trekking on the Inca Trail) and exceeded every one of our expectations.

There are a couple ways to reach Ihla Grande and all quite inexpensive. We purchased a bus ticket via Costa Verde the morning of our departure and found it to be quite comfortable and luxurious. Everyone must first travel by road to one of the three ports that take you to the island via ferry or water taxi. However, the port really depends on your accommodations. Many visit the busy and popular city of Angra Dos Reis and find a boat transfer to the island for day trips, which is absolutely possible. For us, it was a Pousada (Inn) on the island and not far from the island center, Vila do Abraão (village of Abraão). As a result, we got off the bus at Conceição de Jacareí (about 45 minutes before Angra) and took a fast 20-minute speedboat to Ihla Grande.

The island itself is comprised of dirt roads and a few local bars/shops on Vila do Abraão. The scene was casual and relaxing when we visited, but is known to be quite the opposite during the summer months.  With very little connection to the real world, you truly feel at peace in the midst of such paradise. According to our lovely hosts at Pousada Ouro Verde, there are approximately 95 beaches on Ihla Grande and many of which demand physical work before enjoying. A hike, boat ride, or both are usually required for some of the most pristine sites on the island. We managed to do a little bit of everything in such a short time and even had a nice dinner with friends who we happened to run into unexpectedly.

As it turns out, we were rather lucky with the beautiful sunshine during our three-day stay and enjoyed each day to the fullest. From black sand to white sand beaches, tranquil natural pools to waves and snorkeling, colorful sunsets and delicious local cuisine, Ihla Grande proved to be breathtaking.  Among our favorites were trekking to Lopes Mendes beach (rated #1 by many sources), Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), Lagoa Verde (Green Lagoon), and the exciting full-day speedboat ride around the island that offered spectacular views and stops along the way.

Check out the video above and visit the Photo Gallery (Click Here) to live the full experience.