Pre-Trip Checklist: Ilha Grande

Your Journey Blueprint

Strategic steps lead to a worry-free Ilha Grande adventure.

Phased Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations chronologically for maximum efficiency.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Verify validity (6+ months) and apply for visa if needed.

Flights

Book international flights to Rio (GIG/SDU) for better rates.

Accommodation

Secure lodging early, especially for high season or holidays.

Month Before

Domestic Transfers

Arrange land transfers from Rio to mainland departure points.

Flexboat Tickets

Purchase your boat tickets to Ilha Grande.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive coverage for medical, cancellation, luggage.

Week Before

Confirmations

Re-confirm all flight, transfer, and accommodation bookings.

Packing

Pack light with climate-appropriate clothing and gear.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps, translation apps, and inform your bank.

Important Reservations

Booking certain elements in advance assists a smooth trip.

Bookings

International and domestic flights.
Mainland transfers (shared vans/buses).
Flexboat or ferry tickets for your sea transfer to Ilha Grande.
All Ilha Grande accommodation, especially during peak seasons.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarity with island specifics enhances your visit.

Island Specifics

Ilha Grande's car-free nature and its reliance on boats and hiking for transportation.
Research specific hiking trails and their difficulty levels to match your fitness.
Understand local currency (Brazilian Real) and tipping customs.
Review health and safety advisories for Brazil and Ilha Grande.

Home Preparations

Secure your home before heading out on your adventure.

Itinerary Sharing

Notify family/friends of your travel plans.
Share contact information for emergencies.
Keep loved ones informed.
Stay connected.

Mail & Services

Hold mail/newspaper delivery.
Arrange trusted collection.
Manage bills due in your absence.
Empty perishables from refrigerator.

Home Security

Lock doors and windows securely.
Set home alarms if applicable.
Inform neighbors of your absence.
Leave no worries behind.

Important Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage presents peace of mind.

Smooth Arrival

The initial steps upon landing set a positive tone for your trip.

Rio Airport Entry

1
Clear immigration and customs. Keep departure form.
2
Purchase/activate a local SIM card.
3
Withdraw Brazilian Reals for immediate needs.

Ilha Grande Orientation

Locate pre-booked transfer to mainland departure point.
Head to accommodation, check in, drop luggage.
Obtain a local map of Vila do Abraão.

Seamless Departure

Souvenirs & Baggage

Purchase souvenirs in Abraão before leaving.

Shipping large items from Ilha Grande is difficult. Mind baggage limits.

Pre-Departure Confirmations

Confirm return flight details and online check-in.

Have all documents ready (passport, boarding passes, immigration form).

Final Finances

Settle outstanding accommodation bills.

Have sufficient Reals for last-minute expenses and airport transfers.

Departure Timing Advisory

Allow ample time from accommodation to pier for your flexboat. Factor in significant buffer time for mainland transfers to Rio airports, anticipating city traffic.

Pre-Trip Checklist