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Weather in Ilha Grande
Lush island of 102 beaches near Rio
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About Ilha Grande
A remarkable destination worth exploring.
Best months to visit
Year-round
Things to do in Ilha Grande
Explore
Dine
Culture
Nature
Shopping
Day trips
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
January
25C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
February
25C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
March
24C
Mild and comfortable, with regular rainfall.
April
22C
Mild and comfortable, with regular rainfall.
May
21C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
June
20C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
July
20C
Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.
August
20C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
September
21C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
October
22C
Mild and comfortable, with regular rainfall.
November
22C
Mild and comfortable, with regular rainfall.
December
24C
Mild and comfortable, with regular rainfall.
Ilha Grande is a car-free island a few hours from Rio, where former prison colonies have given way to a network of jungle trails leading to some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, including the postcard-perfect Lopes Mendes. With no roads beyond the main village, getting around means boats, water taxis, and a fair bit of walking through Atlantic rainforest alive with monkeys and birdlife — a genuinely tranquil escape that feels far removed from Rio's energy despite the short journey.
Best areas to stay in Ilha Grande
Vila do Abraão
The main village and arrival point, with pousadas, restaurants, and the starting point for most trails.
Lopes Mendes
The island's most famous beach, a long stretch of white sand reached by trail or boat.
Dois Rios
A former prison colony site on the southern coast, reachable by a longer hike through the forest.
Praia de Palmas / Praia Preta
Closer beaches near Vila do Abraão, good for an easy swim without a long walk.
Getting to Ilha Grande
✈
Flights
Fly into Rio de Janeiro (GIG), then bus/drive to Angra dos Reis or Mangaratiba and ferry to Vila do Abraão.
⏱
From London
~13-16 hours from London including connections, plus a 3-4 hour overland and ferry journey from Rio.
🚕
Getting around
The island is car-free — walking trails and small boats connect the village to surrounding beaches.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Ilha Grande?
April to October (dry season) offers less rain for hiking, though December to March is warmer for beach time despite higher humidity and occasional downpours.
How do I get to Ilha Grande?
Take a bus or drive from Rio to Angra dos Reis or Mangaratiba (around 2-3 hours), then a ferry or speedboat to Vila do Abraão, the main village (around 1-1.5 hours).
Is Lopes Mendes beach worth the walk?
Yes, it's widely considered one of Brazil's best beaches, reachable via a scenic hour-long forest trail or a boat that drops you closer, then a short walk.
Are there cars on Ilha Grande?
No, the island is car-free — all transport within the main village is on foot, and between beaches by boat or hiking trail.
What wildlife might I see on Ilha Grande?
Monkeys, colourful birds, and lizards are common along the trails, and turtles or rays are sometimes visible in the clear waters near beaches.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Lopes Mendes lived up to the hype completely, the walk through the forest to get there made arriving feel even better. No cars anywhere is so refreshing.
Bianca F. · August 2023
★★★★☆
A really peaceful break from Rio, just a couple of hours away but felt totally different. Saw monkeys on the trail which the kids loved.
Connor J. · January 2024
★★★★★
Hiked to Dois Rios and the old prison ruins were eerie but fascinating, then cooled off in a waterfall on the way back. Great day.
Renan O. · October 2023
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