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wildlife · Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande Atlantic Rainforest & Wildlife: Private Expert Trek

Explore one of the world's last intact lowland Atlantic Rainforest reserves with a private naturalist guide — spotting howler monkeys, golden lion tamarins, toucans, and orchids in a UNESCO-protected wilderness most visitors never penetrate.

What to expect

Leaving the village behind, the trail quickly swallows you in a world of giant ferns, bromeliads, and ancient buttress-root trees. Your naturalist pauses frequently — a rustle in the canopy reveals a family of howler monkeys; a flash of colour betrays a toucan on its perch. The guide explains the island's complex conservation history, from its time as a prison colony that inadvertently preserved the forest. Hidden freshwater pools offer a cool, refreshing dip mid-trail, and the return route passes a colonial-era ruin reclaimed by jungle.

Book it with
Ilha Grande Hiking (official local operator)
From USD 140 per person (private half-day naturalist trek, licensed bilingual guide)
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Good to know

Trails depart directly from Abraão village — no transfer needed — making this ideal if tender windows are tight. A half-day format (4–5 hours) fits comfortably within most port schedules; confirm your all-aboard and build in a 30-minute buffer. Wear light, long-sleeved clothing and closed trail shoes, and apply insect repellent. Pre-book to secure a private slot with a licensed naturalist guide.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Ilha Grande — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Insignia
12 nights · calls at Ilha Grande
from $3,899
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Regent · Seven Seas Mariner
11 nights · calls at Ilha Grande
from $10,950
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Holland America · Zaandam
29 nights · calls at Ilha Grande
from $6,769
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MSC Cruises · MSC Musica
6 nights · calls at Ilha Grande
from $649
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See all cruises to Ilha Grande →
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