Curitiba , Brazil

Complete Tour to Ilha do Mel

Active

(10 reviews)

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Ilha do Mel on a very complete tour leaving from Curitiba.

Our guide will take you to Pontal do Sul and from there you will go on a private fast boat to quickly reach the Island and visit both sides of this paradise on the Paraná Coast. No more waiting to make the most of your day!

Travel time from Curitiba to departure for Ilha do Mel is approx. 2:30 am on normal days. This time may be longer on busier days, such as holidays. Boat time is 10 minutes.

Ilha do Mel is a magical place: sandy trails lead from one side to the other and there are no cars or motorbikes there!

You will visit the Gruta de Encantadas, the Farol das Conchas and have free time to have lunch, enjoy the beach or take a walk to the Fortaleza (optional by bike or boat).

Our guide will give you tips on places to have lunch and you can choose what you prefer.

Have a different day to get out of your routine and enjoy the nature of Ilha do Mel.

Available options

Complete Tour to Ilha do Mel

Pickup included

What's included

Fast boat transport from Pontal do Sul / Encantadas / Brasília / Pontal do Sul

Ilha do Mel preservation fee (access bracelet)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Accredited Tourist Guide

Detailed itinerary

Gruta de Encantadas is a natural formation accessible via a quiet trail and an access deck with rocks at the end. At low tide it is possible to access the interior of the Cave to see it. It is a place of legends and fantastic stories.

From the disembarkation point to the base of Farol hill it is approx. 40 minutes walking along the trails of Ilha do Mel. From there there are 144 steps to the top. Go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery. From up there you can see Praia do Farol, Praia de Fora and further down, Praia Grande.

Vila do Farol on Ilha do Mel has several restaurants of varying prices and our guide will give you tips on where to have lunch. Lunch is optional and you can choose what you prefer.

Praia do Farol is a peaceful place for swimming on Ilha do Mel. Stay away from the base of the lighthouse due to the current and rocks and make the most of the beach. Here on some days the sea looks like a swimming pool, with few waves and crystal clear water.

The small Praia de Fora is one of the favorites of surfers who live and visit Ilha do Mel. Take the opportunity to explore and enter the sea if you prefer a beach with more waves.

This is an optional location on the tour! If you want, you can rent a bike, walk or take a boat there. It is 5 km along the practically deserted beach to the Fortress, which was built in the 18th century to protect the bay of Paranaguá. The interior has cannons and the well-preserved structure harks back to Brazil's colonial era, when pirates and enemy attacks were a constant threat.

What's not included

Lunch

Optional bicycle rental (approx. R$50 - USD 12)

optional boat to Fortaleza (approx. R$ 150 - USD 35)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The total tour time includes travel time from Curitiba to Pontal do Sul (round trip) and also boat travel.

Minimum 2 people to confirm the date.

Meeting point

Wait in front of the hotel. Please inform the reservation if you are staying elsewhere.

Important notes

It is not necessary to present a ticket, just the identification document used when booking for insurance.

About Curitiba

Curitiba is renowned for its innovative urban planning, extensive green spaces, and sustainable practices. It offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, modern architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a standout destination in South Brazil.

Top Attractions

Botanical Garden of Curitiba

This beautiful garden features a Japanese-style landscape with a stunning greenhouse that resembles a giant redwood tree. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Oscar Niemeyer Museum

Designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer, this museum houses a diverse collection of art, including works by Niemeyer himself, as well as contemporary and modern art.

Museum 1-2 hours R$ 20 (free on Sundays)

Wire Opera House (Teatro Guaíra)

This iconic theater is known for its unique wire mesh façade and hosts a variety of performances, including theater, dance, and music.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by performance (R$ 30-150)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barreadinho

A traditional Curitiba snack made from a small, round piece of bread stuffed with various fillings, such as cheese, ham, or mortadella.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy (varies by filling).

Pinhão

A local delicacy made from the pinhão seed, which is boiled and served with salt, butter, or garlic. It's a popular street food during the winter months.

Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free.

Churrasco

A traditional Brazilian barbecue featuring a variety of grilled meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and sausage, served with sides like rice, beans, and farofa.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten (varies by side dishes).

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Serra do Mar mountain range Boat tours to the base of Iguazu Falls Visiting the Botanical Garden of Curitiba Enjoying a traditional 'Barreado' meal in Morretes Exploring the historic town centers of Morretes and Paranaguá Visiting museums and art galleries in Curitiba Swimming and sunbathing at Barra Velha Beach in Morretes Visiting the Curitiba Wine Festival in July

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Fall (March to May)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Curitiba is generally considered safe for tourists, with a lower crime rate than many other major Brazilian cities. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. It's important to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, and always agree on a price before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Afonso Pena International Airport • 18 km from city center

By bus

Rodoferroviária de Curitiba

Getting around

Public transport

Curitiba's bus system is one of the most efficient and well-organized in Brazil. The RIT system integrates different types of buses, including express, bi-articulated, and conventional buses.

Taxis

Available • Apps: 99 Taxis, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Cívico Jardim Botânico Batel

Day trips

Foz do Iguaçu

500 km from Curitiba • Full day or overnight recommended

Foz do Iguaçu is home to the stunning Iguazu Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. The falls are shared between Brazil and Argentina, and the Brazilian side offers the most breathtaking views.

Morretes

60 km from Curitiba • Half day or full day recommended

A charming colonial town nestled in the mountains, Morretes is known for its beautiful architecture, lush vegetation, and delicious local cuisine. It's a popular destination for day trips from Curitiba.

Paranaguá

90 km from Curitiba • Full day recommended

A historic coastal town with a rich colonial past, Paranaguá is known for its well-preserved architecture, beautiful beaches, and the nearby Superagüi Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Festivals

Festival de Curitiba • March to April Curitiba Wine Festival • July Curitiba International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Botanical Garden of Curitiba in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
Explore the historic town centers of Morretes and Paranaguá for a glimpse into Curitiba's colonial past and to sample local cuisine.
Attend a performance at the Teatro Guaíra for a unique cultural experience and to see the iconic wire mesh architecture up close.
Sample local delicacies like pinhão, barreado, and barreadinho for an authentic taste of Curitibano cuisine.
Take a day trip to Foz do Iguaçu to see the stunning Iguazu Falls and visit the nearby Itaipu Dam.