Travel to Brazil: Paraty Tours

Why travel to Paraty

Paraty’s strong colonial character, expressed in the cobbled streets, 18th-century churches, and restored building facades, has made it an attractive destination for anyone who seeks tranquility and a trip into Brazil’s past without the sometimes garish feel of more frequented beach resort towns. The town is a colonial relic, well preserved and architecturally unique, just 125 miles from Rio de Janeiro. Moreover, it is a site of virtually unmatched natural beauty, being located on the tropical green coast next to a huge bay featuring literally hundreds of little forested islands and crystal clear waters located on Brazil’s southeastern coast. The hilly mainland of Paraty boasts numerous refreshing waterfalls that are the perfect end to one of the many forest trails that exist within the region.

The wealth of historical character possessed by this town is due largely to its harbor, which at one time served as an important port for sending and receiving goods from the mining cities in Minas Gerais and was used as a departure point from which to ship the mined gold to Portugal. At the end of the 17th century Paraty was one of the most important harbors in Brazil. Incidentally, the name Paraty was virtually synonymous with high-quality rum due to the existence of over 250 sugar cane distilleries.  The glory brought about by its port, however, was short-lived, and Paraty lost its vital function when a new road opened from Minas Gerais to Rio de Janeiro.

While today the town is no longer the busy, thriving port it once was, the charm and elegance of its architecture remains, and can be calmly admired in the newfound peace and tranquility of its streets. Visitors to Paraty are sure to be swept off their feet by the romantic and untouched atmosphere of the town – not to mention rejuvenated by the time spent lazing on idyllic beaches and islands!

What to do in Paraty

The town’s historical center, UNESCO declared World Heritage Site since 1966, is comprised of 40 blocks of quiet streets and leafy green plazas, made even more peaceful by the enforced absence of motorized vehicles within its limits. A stroll through these cobblestone streets provides a unique insight into colonial Brazil, of impressive churches and yet simply decorated public buildings and house fronts.

Another very important piece of history remains in Paraty, in the form of the Caminho do Ouro. Paved in the 18th and 19th centuries by slaves, the original 1200km “Gold Trail” once connected Paraty to Diamantina, going through Ouro Preto and Tiradentes. Remaining tracts of the trail have survived in Paraty and can be hiked along during half or full day excursions.

For all its history, it is without a doubt the paradisiacal beaches which make Paraty a particularly stunning destination. Protected by its enormous bay, innumerable white sand beaches (some crowded, some quiet) line the verdant shoreline. Additionally, more than 60 tiny islands dot the Paraty harbor, and the warm crystalline waters provide ample opportunity for picture perfect swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. Half and full day schooner trips are a great way to sample a variety of these lush tropical islets.

Active travelers will love the variety of other outdoor fun to be had, such as mountain biking or hiking to nearby waterfalls and natural reserves. The National Park of Bocaina, Joatinga Park Reserve, and the Environmental Protection Area of Cairuçu – where the quaint village of Trindade is located – are all places of rare beauty that have attracted visitors for decades. Even without venturing to these protected areas visitors will marvel at the lush Atlantic Forest that characterizes this region.

When to visit Paraty

The thing about a tropical paradise is that there is hardly ever a bad time to go. May to August is the cooler winter period characterized by very little rain; temperatures rarely dip below 68°F (20°C) at this time and tend to stay within 70 and 90°F (22 to 32°C). Paraty’s rainy season is between December and March when humidity is at sky high levels and the days linger at 104°F (40°C). Be sure to bring the proper sun protection clothing and lotions if traveling to one of Brazil’s top beach destinations during the South American summer season.

Travel Testimonials

Our accommodations turned out to be excellent throughout the trip. From hotels, to flight purchases and local tours, Gavin's insights gave us good advice and choices. Our questions were always promptly and thoroughly answered. This service was SO much better than buying a packaged

Diane and Jim Anderson, Victoria, BC Canada

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We can't thank you enough for all you did to ensure that we had the best trip possible. Working with you was a pleasure. Our trip was perfect in everyway. Our hotels were lovely and they surpassed our expectations.

Andrea Kustin-Mager.

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Can't imagine traveling to South America without all the V.I.P. assistance rendered to my wife and I in making the complicated itinerary actually work, with amazingly smooth connections. Too many things could go wrong as we tall Americans stand out so easily in just dealing with security just as a starter and having a multitude of staff representatives meeting us at airports and train stations, supervising next day's tours with special planning meetings and in hosting us with private drivers daily along with private tour guides who all spoke English fluently.

John Golden, CO, USA

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Paraty Hotels

Casa Turquesa 5*

Rua dr. Pereira 50, Centro Historico, Paraty

This, literally, postcard perfect hotel was inaugurated in May 2008 as part of Renato Tavolaro’s architectural project. Located near the pier in the historic center of Paraty, the house was restored to resemble the façade of the old 18th century townhouse, which was destroyed in a fire 30 years ago. Casa Turquesa offers a blend of historical beauty and charm with modern comforts. The hotel’s nine rooms, each named after the color of their décor, offer en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, LCD televisions, safe, mini bar, telephone, mosquito netting, and 300-thread Egyptian cotton sheets. Every room has a pleasant view of the bay of Paraty, the historic center of town, the mountains, or the Santa Rita Church. Guests are welcome to use the internal patio, swimming pool, whirlpool, bar, wine cellar, gazebo, garden, and reading room with fireplace and computer.

Room Service Internet Swimming Pool

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Pousada Porto Imperial 4*

Rua Ten. Francisco Antonio, Centro Historico, Paraty

Set behind the main church of the historical center on the River-Pereque, the prime location of the Pousada Porto Imperial allows guests to wander through Paraty’s historic district with ease. The hotel is located in an 1804 colonial building with thick stone walls. The house originally functioned as a trading center, and later an Opera house. The hotel’s 47 suites offer charm and sophistication to all guests. Relax in the spacious hotel lobby, reading room, restaurant, pool, inner garden, or spa during your stay in this beautiful early 19th century house.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Spa Parking Swimming Pool

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Pousada Villa Harmonia 3*

Rua das Acácias 7, Cambore, Paraty

Pousada Villa Harmonia offers peace from the nearby historic center of Paraty. The gardens are an excellent place to read a book or take a cat nap. Also available for guests’ enjoyment are a pool, bar, barbecue area, reading rooms, and living room. The staff at Villa Harmonia guarantees personalized attention. Enjoy one of the 27 spacious and comfortable rooms complete with TV, minibar, air conditioning, ceiling fan, and telephone.

Swimming Pool Parking

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