Arraial do Cabo Day Trip from Rio de Janeiro: Boat Tour & Beach

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Arraial do Cabo Day Trip from Rio de Janeiro: Boat Tour & Beach

Active

(328 reviews)

14h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set out on a full-day Arraial do Cabo tour from Rio de Janeiro and see why it’s called the “Brazilian Caribbean.” After morning pickup, board a schooner cruise to dazzling destinations such as Praia do Farol, Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, Gruta Azul, and Praia do Forno. Swim, snorkel, and capture unforgettable photos in crystal-clear waters before enjoying a freshly prepared lunch (included or optional). With roundtrip transfers, boat tour, local guide, and flexible stops depending on conditions, this Arraial do Cabo experience gives you the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Available options

Full option - Lunch included

Lunch at local restaurant: lunch at local restaurant with fish, chicken, meat, pasta and vegetarian options<br/>Pickup included

Lunch not included

Tour with lunch not included: Break for lunch during the tour. Lunch is not included in this option.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop-off from the main hotels in Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema and Leblon

Professional guide with live tour commentary in English, Spanish & Portuguese

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

Bilingual guide accompanies the group during ground transportation. No bilingual guide on the boat

Boat (schooner) tour in Arraial do Cabo with stops for swimming

Detailed itinerary

Begin the 14-hour tour with a drive from Rio de Janeiro to the city of Arraial do Cabo, located at the region of the Costa do Sol (Sun Coast).

Disembark and enjoy a 40-minute stop to dive in the crystal-clear waters of Ilha do Farol.

Stop at the beaches of Pontal do Atalaia. This is the time to take beautiful panoramic photos .

Make a stop for photos in the beautiful landscapes of the Gruta Azul.

Make a stop for photos in the beautiful landscapes of the Fenda de Nossa Senhora.

Make a stop for photos in the beautiful landscapes of the Pedra do Gorila.

Your last 20-minute stop is at one of the city's most famous spots, enjoy the refreshing waters and incredible scenery of Praia do Forno.

Stop for lunch at a local buffet restaurant (meal included/drinks not included).

What's not included

Lunch at local restaurant (included only in the "Full option - Lunch included")

Diving mask/snorkel (available for rental on the boat)

Boarding fee, to be paid at the Marina - R$ 10.00 in cash only, for all passengers from 6 years

Tips (optional)

Drinks (available for purchase on the boat and during lunch)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

67 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.3

261 reviews

5★

189

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Hotels in Leme.

Important notes

Roundtrip transportation from Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone (Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, Leblon) by air-conditioned vehicle.

Pick up from the hotel takes place before the start time of the activity. If you do not receive confirmation of your departure time, please contact us.

Please inform the name of your hotel to confirm the nearest pick-up point.

This tour operates rain or shine.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative tour date.

For your safety, the boat (schooner) ride in Arraial do Cabo as well as all nautical routes, are subject to change according to maritime conditions and intervention by the Brazilian Navy.

In case of a strong wind, the boat trip will not occur and will be replaced by a walk along the shore. There is no discount or refund policy in these cases.

It is recommended that you bring water, sunscreen, a towel and a camera.

It is necessary to pay the boarding fee for the Fishermen's Association of Arraial do Cabo, to be paid at the Fishermen's Marina - R$ 10,00 in cash only, for all passengers from 6 years. Children under 5 years old must present document.

It is not recommended to book appointments on the same day as the tour, as the return time may vary according to the traffic conditions .

The journey takes about 4 hours both ways.

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals