HIKING on the GOLD TRAIL and ILHA GRANDE

Morning pick up from airport or hotel in Rio and travel by bus in the Serra da Bocaina, the last truly wild nature reserve in the surroundings of Rio and Sao Paulo. Cougars, monkeys, Parrots, toucans, armadillos, and many other endangered tropical animals have in this inaccessible mountain region still an undisturbed habitat. Around 12 clock check-in on a former coffee fazenda at the foot of the Serra. In the afternoon, visit a small country dwelling, which produces sugar cane-brandy (cachassa), and offers a tropical learn-garden.

Transfer by jeep to the beginning of the path in the Serra (2.5 hrs, very rough road). Depending on the availability of the jeeps and size of the group, a part of the group must be seated on the loading area of the jeep. Accommodation in a charming Pousada without electricity, yet with many candles. In the afternoon hike to the Pico de Papagaio, or to a beautiful waterfall with a natural rock pool, which invites to a swim.

Now we meet the gold trail. First, a slightly wooded area, then open plains, along mountain streams and waterfalls, where we will rest. The climbs are not particularly strenuous. The ground is now an easy-going mountain path. Overnight is with simple mountain farmers, the food served from the wood-hearth. Bathrooms and beds with blankets available.

The trail leads through some rough paths, partly on paved forest roads, with slight inclines on open terrains at the height of the Serra, and then down to a breathtaking waterfall, near which we, after about a 5-hour hike, find simple accommodation in a mountain farmer’s hut with wood-stove . As the day before, we find clean beds and bathrooms, running water (cold only); food and drinks available. Dinner with the local Caboclos.

The path is narrow and now runs almost exclusively through the jungle down to the sea. The base is sometimes very uneven, in the rain it is slippery. The steaming forests, bubbling streams, the weird animal noises, and the chastity and solitude of the mountains leave deep impressions. Around noon we meet at the end of the trail near Angra dos Reis, where a vehicle already awaits the group. Transfer to the Ilha Grande. Accommodation in a tropical Pousada near the beach.

Lightweight exploration in the vicinity of the village. The car-free, densely jungle-covered island and nearly uninhabited island is a place of pilgrimage for lovers of nature. Optional boat trip to one of the lagoons, whose clear waters invite to snorkeling among colorful fish.

A day trip depending on your condition and your preferences. A choice of easy and difficult hikes, boat rides and a combination of both. Popular targets are the beach Lopes Mendes, regarded as one of the ten most beautiful beaches in Brazil, the ruins of the prison, where formerly political prisoners were jailed, or an old pirate’s settlement. For hikes a good physical condition is required.

The ferry' leaves at 10:00 am. Followed by a relaxing trip along the beautiful coast of Costa Verde Road in the afternoon, to drive back to Rio. Transfer to the airport, or to the desired hotel.

Alternatively to Ilha Grande the tour can end relaxing in Parati.