Most travelers route through Rio de Janeiro, then transfer overland to the Costa Verde piers and cross by boat to Ilha Grande. The usual flow is: fly into Rio (GIG or SDU), take a bus or private transfer down the BR-101 coastal highway to Angra dos Reis, Mangaratiba, or Conceicao de Jacarei, then take a ferry or fast boat to Vila do Abraao. If you are staying on the mainland, Angra dos Reis works as the marina hub for day boats and dive charters.

Rio's main international airport and the most common gateway for Costa Verde. Best for direct international arrivals and connections.

Central Rio airport focused on domestic flights. Convenient if you are already in Rio city and want a fast airport transfer.

Useful if flights to Rio are expensive or you are combining Sao Paulo with Costa Verde. Expect a longer overland transfer to the coast.

Ilha Grande is largely car-free. In Abraao you walk everywhere, and longer hops happen by water taxi or scheduled tour boats. On the mainland, Angra dos Reis has taxis, app-based rides in some areas, and bus connections along the coast. Because you will transfer by boat, pack in a backpack or a bag you can carry easily and expect some steps, docks, and wet spray during crossings.

Brazil entry rules depend on your passport. As of April 10, 2025, tourists with U.S., Canadian, and Australian passports generally need a Brazilian visitor visa or eVisa arranged before travel. The official eVisa portal is operated through VFS Global. Many other nationalities (including much of Europe) may enter visa-free for short tourism stays, but rules change, so confirm with an official government source before booking. Carry proof of onward travel and accommodation, and keep digital and printed copies of key documents in case connectivity is limited on the island.

Dive and snorkel gear rentals are available through local operators in Abraao and Angra. Bring certification cards and log details if you plan deeper or wreck-focused dives. For boat days, assume your bag may get splashed: use a dry bag for electronics, and keep a lightweight towel and rain shell accessible. If you travel with camera gear, consider a hard case for transfers and a smaller boat bag for daily use.

Cards are accepted at many pousadas and restaurants in Abraao and Angra, but cash is still important for water taxis, snacks, and small operators. Keep small bills for boats and trail-side purchases.

ATM access on Ilha Grande can be limited or unreliable. Plan to withdraw cash on the mainland (Angra dos Reis) before crossing, and carry a backup card.

Brazil commonly uses type N sockets, and type C may also appear. Voltage varies by building, so check labels, especially in newer hotels that may use 220V.

Communications

Mobile coverage is usually strongest in and around Abraao and Angra, and weaker on remote beaches and interior trails. Wi-Fi is common in pousadas but can be slow. Download offline maps and keep key confirmations (hotel, transfers, insurance) saved offline.

Language

Portuguese is the local language. English is spoken in many tourism businesses in Abraao and Angra, but basic Portuguese goes a long way for boats, taxis, and local restaurants.

Insurance

Carry travel insurance that covers boat activities and hiking, plus dedicated dive accident coverage if you will scuba dive (for example DAN). Because evacuation from the island can be slow, coverage that includes medical transport is valuable.

Packing list

Dry bag for boat crossings
Reef-safe sunscreen and a rashguard
3mm wetsuit for warmer months; consider 5mm in winter
Insect repellent for evenings and forest trails
Trail shoes with grip for muddy paths
Reusable water bottle and electrolyte packets
Backup battery pack for phone and dive computer

Ilha Grande and Angra dos Reis

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