Rafting Mambucada River: Atlantic Forest rapids with guide

Three hours on the Mambucada: jeep ride through forest, rapids in an inflatable raft, instructor at the bow

Rafting on the Mambucada River is a three-hour activity in the Atlantic Forest on the border between Angra dos Reis and Paraty, combining a 4x4 jeep ride through forest trails with rapids navigation in an inflatable raft. You board the jeep at the meeting point, ride to the river launch, then paddle through clear waters and gentle rapids with an experienced instructor in your boat. The activity suits groups and families, with children welcome from age 5.

Step-by-step itinerary

Rafting and exploring Paraty

• 4x4 jeep ride to river launch
• Rafting on Mambucaba River with instructors
• Visit Paraty historic center
• Explore Paraty beaches and trails

The experience

The day starts with a 4x4 jeep ride through Atlantic Forest trails to the Mambucada River launch point. The river sits on the border between Angra dos Reis and Paraty, flowing through preserved forest with clear water and gentle rapids suited to mixed ability levels. Once you reach the river, you board an inflatable raft that holds up to eight adventurers, and an instructor boards with you to lead the descent and handle safety throughout.

You do the rowing yourself. The instructor teaches you how to paddle and navigate the rapids, staying in the boat with you the whole way. Life jackets are provided. The route passes through lush greenery and natural landscapes. The rapids are exciting without being extreme, which is why the activity works for families and groups with varying fitness levels. Children from age 5 can join, though infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Bring swimwear or a change of clothes, a towel, comfortable shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. The guide speaks English, Spanish or Portuguese depending on your group. Public transportation options are available near the meeting point if you're traveling without a car. Food and beverages are not included, so plan accordingly if you'll need lunch before or after.

What’s included

• Descent by boat.
• guide during the activity.
• life jacket.
• rowing instruction.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 11:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (11 and older) · Child (5 to 10 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 20

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.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sunrise Adventure Ribeirão Preto

Is this one for you?Groups and families book this together because the shared raft holds up to eight, so you paddle as one crew with a single instructor, and children from age 5 join on the same terms as adults.

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 10 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What are the Mambucada River rapids like for someone who has never rafted before?

The Mambucada has gentle rapids ideal for first-time rafters and mixed-ability groups. The clear water and natural setting make it accessible while still delivering excitement. Your instructor stays in the boat to guide you through each section and ensure safety.

How does the jeep ride fit into the activity?

The 4x4 jeep takes you from the meeting point through Atlantic Forest trails to the river launch point, so you see the forest landscape before you get on the water. It's part of the three-hour experience, not a separate transfer.

What's included in the price and what should I bring myself?

The activity includes the jeep ride, boat descent, life jacket, guide and instruction. Bring swimwear or a change of clothes, a towel, comfortable shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. Food and drinks are not included, so eat before you go or plan a meal in Paraty or Angra dos Reis afterward.

Is this a private raft or will I be with other groups?

This is a shared activity, so your raft will have up to eight adventurers total, which may include other groups. Each boat has its own instructor, so safety and guidance stay consistent regardless of group size.