Pico Pão de Açúcar hike from Paraty: Fjord views and boat access

A 466-meter climb to views of Brazil's only fjord, then a swim in the cove below

This five-hour tour from Paraty combines a speedboat ride into Saco do Mamanguá (Brazil's only fjord) with a steep hike up Pico Pão de Açúcar and time to swim at Praia do Cruzeiro. A guide leads the 1 hour 15 minute ascent, stays with you at the summit for roughly 40 minutes, and returns with you to the beach. The minimum age is 15, and the trail includes steep sections. High fitness is required. Lunch at a traditional Caiçara restaurant is optional and cash-only.

The experience

The day starts at the Paraty pier, where you board a speedboat for a 40-minute ride into Saco do Mamanguá. The fjord cuts inland through mountains in a shape found nowhere else in Brazil, and the boat ride itself frames the landscape before you climb into it. Once at Praia do Cruzeiro, the trail begins: 466 meters of ascent over roughly an hour and 15 minutes, with steep pitches that demand steady footing and real effort.

At the top of Pico Pão de Açúcar, you rest for around 40 minutes while the guide points out the view: the fjord arms spreading below, the mountains rising on all sides, the sea beyond. The descent takes another 40 minutes back to the beach. After the hike, you swim at Praia do Cruzeiro and can eat at a small Caiçara restaurant there (bring cash, it does not take cards). The speedboat returns you to Paraty afterward.

A live guide in English, Spanish, or Portuguese leads the hike and stays with the group throughout. Transport by speedboat, the guide's accompaniment, and all fees and taxes are included. Lunch is separate and optional.

What’s included

• Speedboat transport from Paraty pier to Saco do Mamanguá and back.
• a live guide throughout the hike and boat journey.
• all fees and taxes.
• time to swim at Praia do Cruzeiro.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Under 15: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Paraty Tours

Is this one for you?Choose this if you want a guided climb with other hikers following the guide's pace, rather than hiking independently. The steep terrain and remote fjord location demand strong fitness.

Traveler reviews

4.89★★★★★★★★★★

36 verified traveler reviews

5 ★34

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★1

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How steep is the trail up Pico Pão de Açúcar?

The 466-meter ascent includes steep sections and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. High physical fitness is required, and the trail is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers.

What's the boat ride like to Saco do Mamanguá?

A speedboat takes you from Paraty pier to Praia do Cruzeiro in about 40 minutes. The same boat returns you to Paraty at the end of the day.

Is lunch included in this tour?

Lunch is not included but is available for optional purchase at a traditional Caiçara restaurant at Praia do Cruzeiro. The restaurant accepts cash only, so bring enough Brazilian reais.

How much time do you spend at the summit?

You rest and take photos at the top of Pico Pão de Açúcar for around 40 minutes before descending.

Is there a minimum age for this hike?

The minimum age is 15 years old. Minors must bring a document signed by their guardians.