Ilhas Itatiaia
A stunning archipelago of seven rocky islands in Vila Velha, offering pristine natural pools and crystal-clear waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy tranquility
Ilhas Itatiaia
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning archipelago of seven rocky islands in Vila Velha, offering pristine natural pools and crystal-clear waters.
"A true paradise with crystal-clear waters and natural pools, worth the boat trip!"
🚤 Book Boat Tours
Arrange boat trips from the Itapuã fishermen's colony. Prices are negotiable, especially for groups.
🍎 Pack Essentials
Bring food, drinks, chairs, and umbrellas as there are no facilities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Natural Beauty
Ilhas Itatiaia Archipelago
Seven rocky islands with crystal-clear waters and natural pools, offering a true natural refuge.
Bird Sanctuary
Ilha Itatiaia
A sanctuary for local bird species, especially swallows, particularly visible from April to October.
Panoramic Views
Various viewpoints on the islands
Spectacular natural landscapes and breathtaking city views of Vila Velha.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Islands
What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚤 Book Boat Tours
Arrange boat trips from the Itapuã fishermen's colony. Prices are negotiable, especially for groups.
🍎 Pack Essentials
Bring food, drinks, chairs, and umbrellas as there are no facilities.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Take all your trash back with you to keep the islands clean.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring diving goggles to explore the underwater world and natural pools.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚤 Book Boat Tours
Arrange boat trips from the Itapuã fishermen's colony. Prices are negotiable, especially for groups.
🍎 Pack Essentials
Bring food, drinks, chairs, and umbrellas as there are no facilities.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Take all your trash back with you to keep the islands clean.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring diving goggles to explore the underwater world and natural pools.
💰 Negotiate Prices
Boat tour prices can be negotiated, particularly for larger groups.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Ilhas Itatiaia, describing it as a true paradise with crystal-clear waters and natural pools. The boat tours are efficient and safe, offering a unique experience. However, the lack of facilities means visitors must be fully self-sufficient, and it can get very crowded during peak seasons.
"Top"
Alexandre Aurich
"Lugar muito bonito. Vale a pena o passeio para conhecer a ilha.
Por ser uma reserva, não tem estrutura nenhuma portanto levar os comes e bebes e não esqueça de trazer o seu lixo de volta.
Alguns pontos para a pesca de costão e também com isca artificial.
Bastante rápido e seguro com os barqueiros que fazem e conhecem muito o percurso."
FCES
"É um lugar bonito, quem curte mar e natureza, vai gostar bastante. Leve seus alimentos, bebidas, cadeira e guarda sol. Em alta temporada fica extremamente cheio e a área de areia é muito pequena."
Gabriel Konieczna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access Ilhas Itatiaia via boat tours departing from the fishermen's colony at Praia de Itapuã, Vila Velha. The journey is quick, about 10 minutes.
Look for boatmen at the fishermen's colony on Praia de Itapuã, between Itapoã and Itaparica beaches. Some operators like Equipe Jamaica and Passeios Águia (Joel) are recommended.
Prices typically range from R$20 to R$40 per person, depending on the number of people and the specific island. Prices are often negotiable, especially for groups.
No, you need to hire a boat. The islands are located about 1km from the shore and are best accessed with local boatmen who know the routes safely.
Boat tours will take you to the islands. Once there, you can explore the different islands and natural pools by swimming or by arranging for the boat to move you between them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance tickets as Ilhas Itatiaia is a nature reserve. You pay for the boat transportation to reach the islands.
The islands are accessible whenever boat tours are operating, typically during daylight hours. It's best to confirm with your chosen boat operator.
No, there is no specific entry fee for the islands themselves, as they are a natural reserve. The cost is for the boat service.
It's highly recommended to book your boat tour in advance, especially during high season or weekends, to secure your spot.
As a nature reserve, visitors are expected to respect the environment. This includes not leaving trash behind and not disturbing wildlife.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring natural pools, snorkeling, birdwatching, and admiring the stunning scenery.
No, Ilhas Itatiaia is a nature reserve with no infrastructure. You must bring all your own food, drinks, and supplies.
Mornings are often less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
The waters are generally calm and clear, with natural pools forming at low tide, making them safe for swimming. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, some spots are suitable for shore fishing and fishing with artificial lures.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning natural pools, the clear turquoise waters, the rocky formations, and the panoramic views of Vila Velha from the islands. Drone shots are particularly impressive. 
Absolutely! Drone footage showcases the archipelago's beauty, the surrounding ocean, and the coastline of Vila Velha exceptionally well.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Waterproof gear or a waterproof camera is advisable for capturing shots in and around the water.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer, more flattering light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
While specific photography tours aren't widely advertised, local boat operators can often accommodate requests for specific photo stops or timings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing along snorkeling gear can add an extra layer of fun as kids can marvel at the underwater life. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities on the islands. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the best shots. Don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens for those sweeping landscapes and consider waterproof gear for capturing the beauty of the natural pools up close. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Archipelago
These islands are a protected nature reserve, meaning they are largely untouched and offer a raw, natural experience. The journey to the islands typically starts at the fishermen's colony in Praia de Itapuã, where local boatmen offer tours. These tours are essential for accessing the islands, as they are situated about 1 kilometer from the shore. The boatmen are knowledgeable about the area and ensure a safe passage. They often provide options for how long you can stay on the islands, allowing you to tailor the experience to your liking. The cost of these tours can vary, but it's common to negotiate, especially for groups.
Beyond the stunning natural beauty, Ilhas Itatiaia is also recognized as a sanctuary for various bird species, particularly swallows, which are most active during the months of April to October.
This makes it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The combination of pristine waters, unique rock formations, and abundant birdlife creates a truly memorable visit.Responsible Tourism at Ilhas Itatiaia
When interacting with the environment, avoid disturbing the wildlife, especially the bird populations that call the islands home.
Stick to designated paths where available and refrain from collecting any natural items like shells or rocks. The boatmen are local experts who can guide you on the best practices for enjoying the islands sustainably. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors contribute to the preservation of Ilhas Itatiaia's natural beauty for future generations. This mindful approach ensures that the 'paradise' experienced by current visitors remains a vibrant and healthy habitat for its flora and fauna.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit