Paraty
Why You Should Visit Paraty
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Paraty is the most delightful seaside colonial town based on a bay dotted with islands
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Close by are white sand beaches which can easily be reached by local bus, taxi or car hire
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Masses of great seafood restaurants both in town and on the islands
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For those who prefer day trips, head up into the mountains on horseback and explore the jungle with your guide
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And there is always the local sugar cane liqueur, cachaça, from a local distillery, where they make a perfect Caipirinha!
Our Specialists 'Must Do'
Exploring the Bay of Paraty by boat is a real must, definitely my favourite way of finding the hidden beaches and beautiful islands dotted throughout the bay. Drop anchor, grab your snorkelling gear and jump in!
A little more about Paraty
Driving south of Rio along the stunning Costa Verde, travellers will come across colonial Paraty with its cobbled streets and pretty whitewashed colonial buildings covered in pink and purple bougainvillea. Originally part of the gold trail from Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais, during the gold boom of 18th century, Paraty is a UNESCO-listed town which has changed little since this time. A backdrop of jungle-clad mountains and the beautiful Bay in front make Paraty an idyllic spot to experience a taste of authentic Brazil.
Wander along the car-free cobbled streets climbing the walls, visiting the ornate churches, art galleries and boutiques before ending the day at one of the town’s excellent restaurants. Our preferred hotels are charming, set within converted colonial mansions with peaceful courtyard swimming pools. Beach hotels’ are few and far between but there are one or two gems nearby. Paraty has a busy cultural calendar with main events such as FLIP - Paraty International Literary Festival, Paraty em Foco international photography festival, various jazz and blues events and of course Carnival, with its mud party on nearby Jabaquara Beach!
When to go
The warmest time to visit Paraty and the Costa Verde is Brazil’s summer from November to March. It is also the rainy season with tropical downpours likely and high season with Brazilians taking their main holiday at this time. The dry season from May to October is lovely with almost constant sun, temperatures in the mid-20s, cooler evenings yet the sea is still warm.
For more information on Paraty, or for advice on your holiday to Brazil, please contact Oliver, our Brazil specialist on 01285 885 333.
Alternative Suggestions
Introduction to Brazil
Experience the Iguaçu Falls, Rio and Paraty on the coast.
Casa Paraty
Converted town house, only a stones throw from Paraty's charming harbour.