Saco do Mamanguá: a guide to Paraty’s tropical fjord

What is Saco do Mamanguá?

Mamanguá is an inlet about 8 km long, south of Paraty and sheltered from the open sea. The water is calm, great for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddling, and at the far end there is a large mangrove. Caiçara families live along the shore and welcome visitors in simple restaurants serving fresh fish.

How to get to Saco do Mamanguá

The easiest way is by boat from the Cais de Turismo in Paraty: by speedboat the trip is short and includes island stops on the way. You can also drive to Paraty-Mirim and take a boat from there, or hike in, but the trail is long and needs planning.

Things to do in Mamanguá

• Climb Pico do Pão de Açúcar do Mamanguá: a short, steep trail to the viewpoint with the fjord’s most famous view.
• Have lunch at Praia do Cruzeiro: the best-known caiçara village in the inlet.
• Swim at Praia do Engenho, with a waterfall close to the sand.
• Visit Saco da Velha, a quiet, unspoiled beach.
• Kayak or paddleboard on the calm water at the end of the inlet.

Speedboat tour to Saco do Mamanguá from Paraty

On our speedboat tour, departure is at 10:30 am from the Cais de Turismo in the Historic Center (arrive 15 minutes early). It takes about 6 hours, with no more than 15 passengers and several stops:

• Ilha dos Cocos: swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear water.
• Pico do Pão de Açúcar: optional trail with a view of the fjord.
• Praia do Engenho, with a waterfall nearby.
• Praia do Cruzeiro: caiçara village and optional lunch (not included).
• Saco da Velha: a quiet, unspoiled beach.
• Ilha do Mantimento: a short photo stop.

• Speedboat Tour through Saco do Mamanguá — Explore the stunning tropical fjord of Brazil on an exciting speedboat tour leaving from Paraty, diving into crystal-clear waters and admiring the lush Atlantic Forest! From R$ 250 per person · approx. 6 hours

What is included and how much it costs

The boat is new and carries snorkel masks, life jackets for everyone, a cooler with ice and music. The tour costs R$ 250 per person, and the route may change with the weather and sea conditions.

Mamanguá by private boat

If you travel as a group, you can also visit Mamanguá on a private boat with the Mamanguá Express route: Ilha da Cotia, Praia do Cruzeiro and Ilha do Mantimento, at your own pace. This route has a surcharge on the boat price because of the distance.

• Private Speedboat Tour in Paraty: MADAME — Embark on the Madame speedboat for an unforgettable tour in Paraty, full of comfort, beauty, and personalized adventure! R$ 1.300 for the whole boat · To be arranged
• Private Speedboat Tour in Paraty Bay – LANCHA BABI — Enjoy a private speedboat tour in Paraty Bay, exploring crystal-clear waters and paradise islands with personalized routes for an unforgettable experience! R$ 1.300 for the whole boat · approx. 5 hours

Tips for the tour

• For the Pão de Açúcar climb, wear sneakers or sturdy sandals and bring water.
• Bring cash or a card for lunch at Praia do Cruzeiro.
• Your own cooler box is not allowed on the boat: it already has a cooler with ice for your drinks and snacks.
• Sunscreen, a hat and swimwear are a must.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Saco do Mamanguá called a fjord?

Because it is a long, narrow inlet between mountains, like the fjords of Scandinavia. It was not carved by glaciers, but the nickname “Brazil’s only tropical fjord” stuck.

How much is the tour to Saco do Mamanguá?

The shared speedboat tour costs R$ 250 per person, leaving Paraty at 10:30 am. On a private boat, the Mamanguá Express route is quoted on WhatsApp.

Is the Pão de Açúcar do Mamanguá trail hard?

It is short but steep and needs moderate fitness. On the tour it is optional: if you do not want to climb, you can enjoy the beach.

Can I visit Mamanguá as a day trip?

Yes. By speedboat from Paraty the tour takes about 6 hours and returns to the Cais de Turismo in the late afternoon.