A combined speedboat and trek that drops you into a working caiçara village and a waterfall that meets the sea. Expect a one-hour boat ride, a moderately difficult forest trail, and cash-only village lunches.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The day begins with the motor’s steady thrum at Paraty pier as a speedboat pulls away from town, slicing the glossy bay toward a fringe of green that seems to drop straight into the sea. On approach Ponta Negra reveals itself: a small caiçara community, a ribbon of beach, and the wooded slope where the trail to Cachoeira do Saco Bravo climbs.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable hiking 2–3 hours on uneven terrain; ability to step over roots and short steep sections required.
Wildlife
History
Ponta Negra is a traditional caiçara settlement—communities formed through Indigenous, African and Portuguese influence along Brazil’s coast, surviving by fishing and small-scale farming.
Conservation
The area sits within the Atlantic Forest mosaic; visitors should stick to trails, avoid single-use plastic and respect local fishing practices to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Visit the Traditional Ponta Negra Community - BY PARATY TOURS today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring cash for lunch
Local caiçara restaurants often accept only cash; carry small bills for a typical seafood or fish-based lunch.
Footwear with traction
Choose closed-toe trail shoes with good grip — the route has rocky steps, roots and muddy sections after rain.
Hydrate and shade
Bring at least 1.5 liters of water and a sun hat; coastal humidity and exposed beach sections make hydration important.
Timing for conditions
Visit mid-morning to avoid rougher seas and to ensure the trail is passable after overnight rains; operator may cancel in bad weather.
Closed-toe trail shoes
Grip and ankle support for steep, rooty, and potentially muddy forest trails.
Reusable water bottle (1.5L+)
Staying hydrated during the hike and boat transfer is essential in humid coastal climate.
Insect repellent & sunscreen
Protects against mosquitoes in forested sections and UV exposure on exposed beach stretches.
summer
Light rain shell
A compact waterproof improves comfort if brief tropical showers occur on the trail.
summer