Visiting Paraty, a colonial legacy between sea and forest
Located on the Costa Verde, between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Paraty blends historical architecture, lush nature, and vibrant traditions. This Brazilian coastal town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts travelers looking for authenticity and preserved landscapes.
A preserved historic center
The heart of Paraty is its historic center, defined by cobblestone streets and 18th-century houses. Closed to motor vehicles, this neighborhood is best explored on foot. You will find baroque churches, art galleries, and local craft shops. The colonial architecture serves as a reminder of the town's prosperous past, when it functioned as a major port for exporting gold to Portugal.
Accessible beaches and islands
Paraty is surrounded by beaches and islands with crystal-clear water. Among the most popular, Praia do Sono, reachable by hiking trail or boat, offers a quiet escape. Saco do Mamanguá, Brazil's only tropical fjord, is an ideal spot for kayaking and hiking. Boat excursions provide access to the many islands in the bay, some uninhabited and others featuring secluded beaches.
Lush nature to explore
The region surrounding Paraty is bordered by the Mata Atlântica, a tropical forest with high biodiversity. Hiking trails cut through the dense vegetation, leading to waterfalls like Cachoeira do Tobogã, where you can slide down the smooth rock face. The Serra da Bocaina National Park offers sweeping views of the bay and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Culture and traditions
Paraty is well known for cultural events, such as the Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty (FLIP), which draws authors and readers from around the globe. The town also hosts the Festa do Divino, a religious tradition involving processions and dances. Local distilleries offer tastings of cachaça, the sugarcane spirit iconic to Brazil.
Caiçara cuisine
The local gastronomy reflects its caiçara heritage, a mix of indigenous, Portuguese, and African cultures. Azul marinho, a dish of fish and plantains, is a local staple. Moquecas, fish or seafood stews cooked in a sauce of coconut milk and palm oil, are also popular. For dessert, pudim de leite, a condensed milk flan, is a favorite for those with a sweet tooth.
Where to eat?
- Banana da Terra (historic center): A renowned restaurant serving inventive Brazilian cuisine using local ingredients.
- Margarida Café (historic center): A friendly spot offering traditional dishes and live music in the evenings.
- Sabor da Terra (Caborê neighborhood): Family-style cooking focusing on regional recipes.
- Restaurante Santa Rita (Pontal neighborhood): Seafood specialties in a casual setting.
Where to stay?
- Casa Arte Cabore (Caborê neighborhood): An artistic pousada offering comfortable lodging and a quiet atmosphere.
- Pousada Villa Verano (Caborê neighborhood): A charming establishment with a tropical garden and pool.
- Jabaquara Beach Resort (Jabaquara neighborhood): A beachfront resort with sea views and full services.
- Encanto Paraty Beach (Pontal neighborhood): A budget-friendly option near the beaches and town center.
When to go?
The best time to visit Paraty is from May to September, during the dry season. The weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures and little rain. In July, the town hosts FLIP, while August features the Festival da Cachaça, celebrating the local spirit.
How to get there?
Paraty is accessible by bus from Rio de Janeiro (about 4.5 hours) or São Paulo (about 6 hours), via local companies like Costa Verde. Fares vary by season, but expect to pay between 70 and 120 R$ (about $13-22) for a one-way ticket. There is no airport in Paraty. The closest airports are in Rio or São Paulo, with regular road connections.
How to get around?
The historic center of Paraty is easily explored on foot. To reach surrounding beaches and trails, you can use taxis, rent a bicycle, or rent a scooter. Water taxis are also available to reach some of the isolated beaches in the bay.
Stunning white houses decorated with all sorts of colors and red tiles that remind me of our European villages. The streets are paved with very uneven stones, so you have to constantly watch where you step. Because of that, the many tourists move at a snail's pace! Arm yourself with patience, or visit when it's raining.