How to Get to Ilha Grande: Complete Guide 2026 with Boats, Prices and Crossing Tips
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
In this Guide
6 Tourism Tax 2026 |
Ilha Grande can only be reached by sea.
There are no bridges, airports, or roads connecting Ilha Grande to the mainland. The only way to get there is by boat, from three ports on the southern coast of Rio de Janeiro: Conceição de Jacareí, Mangaratiba, and Angra dos Reis. Each port has different advantages depending on where you're coming from, how much you want to spend, and what time you prefer.
Conceição de Jacareí — The Most Recommended Port
Located 115 km from Rio (2 to 2.5 hours by car). Speedboats (flexboats) depart every 60 minutes, from 8 am to 6 pm. The crossing takes only 15 to 25 minutes. Price: R$ 75 to R$ 150 per trip. Buy a round trip ticket online in advance for R$ 140 (vs. R$ 150 at the counter). Parking: R$ 15 to R$ 40 per day. It's the most versatile port: frequent schedules, fast crossing, and good value for money.
Mangaratiba — The Most Economical Option
Located 100 km from Rio (1 hour 30 minutes by car). The Barcas Rio ferry costs only R$ 20.50 per trip — the cheapest option to reach the island. The crossing takes 60 to 100 minutes. The problem: only one departure per day (from Mangaratiba at 8 am, return from Abraão at 5:30 pm). For those with flexible schedules and who want to save 70% on the crossing, it's unbeatable.
Angra dos Reis — Ideal for those coming from São Paulo
Located 150 km from Rio (2h30) and 400 km from São Paulo (6h). Two options: the Barcas Rio ferry (R$ 20.50, 80 minutes, limited schedule) or speedboats from Cais de Santa Luzia (R$ 75 to R$ 120, 30 to 40 minutes, departures every hour). For those coming from São Paulo via the Dutra or Rio-Santos highways, Angra is the most convenient access point.
How to leave Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo
By bus: Viação Costa Verde operates 11 daily departures from Rio to Angra (R$ 57 to R$ 93 per trip). Rio-Mangaratiba: R$ 50 to R$ 60. From SP: Viação Reunidas Paulista and Flixbus (R$ 119 to R$ 166, 7 hours). Private transfer: R$ 500 to R$ 900 per vehicle (up to 4 people). Shared: R$ 180 to R$ 230 per person.
Sustainable Tourism Tax 2026
Since January 2026, Angra dos Reis has charged a Sustainable Tourism Tax (TTS) of R$ 47.50 per person for stays of up to 7 days on Ilha Grande. Payment can be made online or at the embarkation port. The funds are allocated to environmental preservation and tourism infrastructure on the island.
Essential Tips for the Crossing
Never book a return trip on the same day as an important flight — leave one day available in case of a possible crossing cancellation due to weather. Protect your luggage on the boat (sea spray will soak everything). Buy round-trip tickets in advance during peak season. Cars are not allowed on the island. And don't worry: the crossing itself is the beginning of the experience — the view of Ilha Grande Bay from the sea is spectacular in itself.
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