Whether it is to practice sport, learn more about history or purely for leisure, exploring Rio over its waters, to find picturesque spots and to glimpse the carioca horizon from another perspective is well worth the trip. The city that grew from its coastline has many treasures hidden which, although perhaps not so easy to access, make for unforgettable days out.
The archipelago of the same name is made up of seven islands and reefs, and at about 5km out from Ipanema beach it is also visible from various locations on Rio’s coast. Schooner boat trips leave from Gloria Marina and last for 4 hours with a few itinerary options. It is worth checking the weather conditions on the day, as depending on the tide sometimes it’s not possible to reach your destination. And what to do there? Dive into the crystalline waters, see various kinds of birds and marine life and if you’re really lucky you may even glimpse a dolphin, not to mention the incredible vista of the “Marvellous City.”
An hour on the ferry away from Rio (see timetables and tariffs here) leaving from Praça XV, the trip begins in Guanabara Bay passing under the Rio-Niteroi Bridge eventually arriving at this idyllic island. Old colonial houses, dirt track roads, carriages and children playing in street will have you believing that you’ve gone back in time. The official form of transport on the island is the bicycle and its worth renting a set of wheels to visit the points of interest, both natural andarchitectural. Among them there is Caramanchão dos Tamoios, Pedra Moreninha and the charming Praça de São Roque (São Roque Square), where the carnival block party and lively Festa Junina take place, both hosted by Grupo Pérola da Guanabara. The island has good food options, where restaurants like Quintal da Regina serve up delicious traditional food.
The neo-gothic castle on this island, which dates back to 1889, was the venue for Imperial Brazil’s final ball; an important watershed in Brazilian history. Today, schooner boat trips can be taken to and around the island, offering a unique view of Sugarloaf, Guanabara Bay and the impressive new Museu do Amanhã. Visitors to the island are taken around by military personal on a tour that lasts about two hours where you’ll discover unique examples of the city’s architecture. In the event of bad weather, the tour is done using a mini-bus. Tours take places Thursday to Sunday and it is recommended you book as demand is usually high.
For those with the strength and determination for strenuous arm work, a mini-voyage on a stand-up paddle is one of the best ways of getting to the Ilhas Tijuca. The archipelago lies two kilometers from the coast, between Barra da Tijuca and São Conrado. A crossing takes about 40 minutes which can, and should, be done with the help of instructors if it is your first time. Crystalline waters and a region rich in marine wildlife, there is even a mini canyon perfect for a daring leap from the top of the rock.
The quaint alleyways, bungalows and distinct lack of cars are worlds away from the gigantic shopping malls and mega-condominiums of Barra da Tijuca. The island lies in the preservation area around Tijuca Lagoon and has an idyllic air about it. As such, it is a popular spot for people who want to lead a different lifestyle within the city or for those that want to spend a week in a charming guest house among nature without hitting the highway out of town. Apart from the natural beauty, the gastronomy is another high point. There are bars, local bodegas and restaurants such as Bar Caiçara which offers a musical lineup, Pizzaria Alla Pergola and the slightly pricier seafood restaurant, Laguna. To get to the island just take the boat that leaves the quays that are located around 350 Avenida das Américas.
Address
: Avenida das Américas, 350, Barra da Tijuca
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