MileHacker Logo
Paraty Travel Resources

Paraty Travel Resources

The Southeast Brazil Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Preparation for your Paraty trip unfolds in stages, each step bringing you closer to a smooth experience.

Detailed Timeline

This timeline provides a structured approach to your pre-trip actions.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport (6+ for six months after you get back date).

Visa Requirements

Research Brazil's visa requirements and apply early.

International Flights

Book flights from abroad to Rio (GIG/SDU) or São Paulo (GRU/CGH).

Month Before

Intercity Transport

Book intercity bus tickets or shared shuttle transfers.

Tours and Activities

Book essential tours or specific experiences.

Airport Transfers

Arrange any pre-booked airport transfers.

Week Before

Document Organization

Organize all reservations, tickets, and important documents (digital and physical).

Packing Essentials

Pack luggage according to Paraty’s climate and activities. Confirm sufficient prescription medications and a Basic first-aid kit.

Connectivity & Contacts

Charge all electronics. Set up an ESIM for Brazil or prepare for a local SIM. Notify family/friends of itinerary and emergency contacts.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • International flights (to GIG or GRU).
  • Accommodation in Paraty.
  • Long-distance coaches or shared transfers to Paraty.
  • Any high-demand tours or festival tickets (e.g., FLIP).

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Research Topics

  • Heritage and Past: Read up on Brazilian culture, history, and Paraty's historical significance.
  • Fundamental Language: Familiarize yourself with basic Portuguese phrases to greet people, directions, and ordering food.
  • Travel Advisories: Review current travel advisories for Brazil from your country's government.
  • Home Preparation: Secure your home, arrange mail and pet care, pay bills due during your absence.

Plan Ahead

Start your preparations well in advance. This approach manages logistics and leads to a more satisfying experience.

Arrival Checklist

The first hours in Paraty influence the tone for your journey.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration

    Clear border control at the airport.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Pick up your checked luggage.

  • 3
    Transfer Connection

    Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or the bus the depot for your trip to Paraty. Notify accommodation of estimated arrival time.

Orientation Strategies

  • Locate Accommodation

    Find your pousada or hotel and check in.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a short walk around the immediate neighborhood to get your bearings, identify landmarks, and find local stores or eateries.

  • ATM Location

    Find a local ATM to withdraw some Brazilian Reais. Identify the nearest the visitor center for maps and tips from the area.

Initial Essentials

Currency Exchange

Withdraw a sufficient amount of local currency from an ATM.

Airport exchange rates might be less favorable, so consider exchanging a small amount there and more in Paraty.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water immediately.

Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Paraty.

Transportation to Accommodation

Use your pre-booked transfer, a local taxi, or the municipal bus from Paraty's bus terminal to reach your pousada.

Have your accommodation address and a map or directions ready for arrival.

Arrival Readiness

Upon arrival, locate where you're staying and necessary amenities. Have your local currency and bottled water ready for immediate needs.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure, avoiding last-minute stress.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Plan for supplementary space in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts.
  • For larger items, like several bottles of cachaçan or large crafts, look into shipping via Correios (Brazilian postal service) from Paraty.
  • Be aware of the costs and your home country''s import rules for alcohol and other items.
  • Consider Eagle Creek for putting things in a suitcase organization.

VAT Refund Procedures Not Applicable

  • Brazil has no general VAT (Value Added Tax) refund system for tourists with goods purchased.
  • You cannot claim tax back on your purchases made in Brazil.
  • This differs from some other countries that offer such schemes.
  • Keep your receipts for personal records, but not for tax refunds.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allow ample time for travel from Paraty to the airport, considering potential traffic.

Travel Times

  • International Flights (from GIG/GRU):Allow 8-9 hours total.
  • This includes 5-SIX hours for the bus or transfer journey and 3 hours at the airport for check-in and security.
  • Account for potential traffic on the BR-101 highway.
  • Intercity Bus (from Paraty's bus terminal):Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your return flights and transport 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Bring a small bag with essentials for your journey (snacks, water, entertainment) in case of delays.
  • Ensure all valuables are secured in your carry-for your bags.
  • Double-check that all home preparations (mail, pets, bills) are in order.

Smooth Departure

Reconfirm all bookings before your departure.

Plan extra time for transfers to the airport, especially during peak hours.

← Previous
Paraty Travel Hacks
← Back to The Southeast
Next →
Paraty Travel Checklist

Next Up: Paraty Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Paraty Travel Checklist