Activities in Paraty organise around the bay, colonial historic centre and terrestrial excursions in Atlantic Forest. Historic centre. Walking tour (1 km², 100% pedestrian), ideally early morning (golden light) or late afternoon (sunset). The 4 baroque churches (Santa Rita 1722 oldest, Nossa Senhora dos Remédios cathedral, Rosário 1725 dedicated to slaves, Dores white elite). Casa da Cultura (exhibitions). Forte Defensor Perpétuo (1703, panoramic views 20 min walk). Artisan workshops and art galleries. Pontal for sunset.
Sea excursions. Schooner outing (the must-do, €50-80/person, 9am-4pm, 3-4 beach and island stops — Ilha Comprida, Praia da Lula, Saco da Velha, Ilha Pelada, lunch on board, swimming, snorkelling, caipirinhas). Private speedboat tour (€200-400/day for 4-6 people, faster and more beaches covered). Kayak or stand-up paddle in mangroves (€30-50/half-day). Saco do Mamanguá (1h by boat, unique Brazilian fjord, Pico do Cairuçu hike spectacular views).
Land excursions. Trindade (28 km south, local bus €5, 30 min) — still preserved beach village with sublime beaches: Cachadaço (turquoise, natural rock pools), Praia do Meio, Caixa d'Aço (crystal waters), hippie-surfer vibe, feet-in-water lunch. Caminho do Ouro (Gold Trail, 4-6h hike on original imperial royal road stones through primary Atlantic Forest, panoramas, waterfalls — mandatory guide €30-50/person). Cachoeira do Tobogã (8 km, natural slide on smooth rock in river, refreshing bathing, free). Cachaça Route (Caminho da Cachaça, 23 distilleries — guided tour €50-80/person, 4-6h, 2-3 distilleries with tastings). Pouso da Cajaia (45 km, 3-4h trail, sublime deserted beach, adventure experience).
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