Just a couple of hours from the skyscrapers and buzzing streets of Rio de Janeiro lies the tranquil area of Angra dos Reis.

The region is best known for its collection of outstandingly beautiful islands, surrounded by brilliant turquoise seas where a myriad of sea creatures flourish below the surface.

Whether you want to laze on powdery white sands, seek out sea turtles or trek through thriving rainforests, you’ll find an Angra dos Reis day trip from Rio de Janeiro to suit your interests.

Here's all you need to know about Angra dos Reis, one of the most exciting day trips from Rio de Janeiro.

How to get to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro?

Angros dos Reis is an area in southern Brazil that encompasses a city, port and archipelago of islands. It is approximately 160 kilometers from the city of Rio de Janeiro.

From Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis by car

It is a 2.5-hour journey to Angra dos Reis by car, which follows Route 101 west of Rio Janeiro, all the way to the region.

From Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis by bus

Another way to make the jaunt to Angra dos Reis is by catching a direct bus from Rio de Janeiro’s Novo Rio station to the municipality. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and tickets can be purchased at the station.

Guided tour to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro

Alternatively, opt for one of the guided excursions to Angra dos Reis that are on offer, which usually last between 12 and 14 hours. These tours tend to include a convenient hotel pickup between 7 AM and 8 AM.

What is the typical itinerary?

After leaving the city on the morning of your Angra dos Reis day tour, you’ll embark on a long drive to the coastal city.

Once you arrive, you’ll generally hop on a boat at the port and set sail on a whirlwind adventure through the hundreds of tranquil islands that form the archipelago.

Popular stopping points include the fishing hub of Cais Turistico de Santa Luzia and Ilha Grande.

You’ll usually have the opportunity to snorkel through the clear Lagoa Azul "Blue Lagoon", located in the warm waters between two isles.

You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch served in the middle of the day, and once you’ve explored the region fully, you’ll return to Rio de Janeiro, where your Angra dos Reis day trip ends.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Angra dos Reis?

There are a myriad of Angra dos Reis day tours available, depending on the activities and attractions that interest you.

Guided tour to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro

You’ll begin your Angra dos Reis day trip by enjoying a lengthy yet scenic drive from Rio de Janeiro to the stretch of coast.

Once in the Costa Verde region, you’ll stop to sink your toes into the silky sands of Freguesia de Santana Beach, where you can see traditional fishermen bringing in the catch of the day.

Explore the Blue Lagoon, as well as the Green Lagoon of Ilha Grande, where you can discover a host of colorful marine life, before returning to Rio de Janeiro.

2-Day trip to Angra dos Reis plus Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf from Rio de Janeiro

Incorporate a handful of Brazil’s most iconic sites on this combination multi-day tour of Angra dos Reis. On the first day of this excursion, you’ll discover the Pão de Açúcar "Sugar Loaf " and the UNESCO-listed Christ the Redeemer statue.

You’ll also see the unusually-shaped Catedral Metropolitana and the vibrant Escadaria Selarón, which is a series of over 200 mosaiced steps.

Spend the following day relaxing on a boat cruise of the picturesque Angra dos Reis and its plethora of idyllic beaches.

7-Day tour to Angra dos Reis plus Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro

Alternatively, if you’re the adventurous sort, you might consider opting for a week-long camping and go for one of the most famous hiking tours in Rio de Janeiro.

You’ll spend your days trekking to some of the region’s most scenic spots, including the Lagoa Verde "Green Lagoon" of Ilha Grande and Parnaioca Beach.

Enjoy watching the landscape washed in golden hues on a sunrise hike to Parrot’s Peak and spend your nights staring at the stars from a tranquil campsite.

How much does a day trip to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro cost?

A basic Angra dos Reis day trip costs approximately US$50 per person, which typically includes a tour guide and a local lunch.

A 2-day tour of Angra dos Reis, Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf costs US$170 each, and includes entrance fees, as well as round-trip transportation.

If you select a 7-day excursion, you can expect to pay around US$1,200 per person, which includes accommodation and lunch for the duration of the tour.

What will you see and do?

Ilha Grande

There are 365 islands in the Angra dos Reis archipelago, however, Ilha Grande is the most popular of all of them. The island features the perfect combination of pristine beaches, azure waters filled with colorful marine life and lush rainforest.

One of the attractions of the island is its abandoned prison, which closed in 1962 and still houses one released prisoner who chose to stay.

Ilha Grande is an exceptional location for snorkeling and diving with its calm waters that are home to manatees, sea turtles, and humpback whales.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is nestled between two of Angra dos Reis’ numerous islands. The snorkeling spot was named after the 1980s movie of the same name, which was not filmed here, but in Fiji.

This is known as the best place for swimming in the archipelago, with sparkling waters so clear you can see fish swimming from above the surface.

As well as manatees, sea turtles and humpback whales, you may also see puffer fish, moray eels, and dolphins.

When is the best time to visit Angra dos Reis?

Sun worshippers may wish to plan a day trip to Angra dos Reis between December and March when temperatures soar to around 30 degrees Celsius.

However, this can also be a very humid time of year, so you may wish to plan your trip between June and October when the climate is dry, and slightly cooler.

What are the other day trips from Rio de Janeiro?

Travel tips

Remember to bring your swimsuit and towel on a day tour to Angra dos Reis as most include several swimming spots.
Angra dos Reis has a year-round tropical climate, so ensure you’re prepared with plenty of water, a sunhat and sunscreen.
If you experience seasickness, ensure you are carrying the appropriate medication with you when you embark on your adventure.

Angra dos Reis: Day Trips and Tours from Rio De Janeiro