How to Get from Rio de Janeiro To Sao Paulo (and Make It Epic)
Flying from São Paulo to Rio takes an hour.
But where’s the fun in that?
If you’ve got a backpack, a playlist, and a sense of adventure, this stretch of Brazil’s southeast coast is begging for a proper road trip. Think tropical islands, colonial towns, jungle beaches, and nights spent dancing with strangers you just met at the hostel bar.
This isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. This is about chasing waterfalls in Ilhabela, surfing in Ubatuba, sipping cachaça in Paraty, and hiking through Ilha Grande before you finally roll into Rio with sand still in your shoes.
This is your slow, epic route from São Paulo to Rio, with all the transport tips, must-do stops, and the best hostels to crash at along the way.
Let’s go. 🚌🌴
Book Hostels In Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro – Kickstart in the Cidade Maravilhosa 🌇
Your trip kicks off in Rio de Janeiro, a.k.a. the Cidade Maravilhosa (“Marvelous City”). Rio is world-famous for its stunning scenery and lively culture. Spend some time soaking up the sun on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, hike up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue for panoramic views, and don’t miss a night out in Lapa for live samba and street parties. By day, you can take the cable cars up Sugarloaf Mountain or wander through colorful Santa Teresa. Rio’s mix of beaches, jungle-covered mountains, and city energy will get you in the mood for adventure.
Travel Tip
When you’re ready to leave Rio, head southwest along the coast. If you’re driving, take the scenic BR-101 highway. By bus, you can grab a Costa Verde bus from Rio’s Novo Rio terminal. Your first epic stop is coming up: the island of Ilha Grande. To get there, travel ~2–3 hours from Rio to the port (either Mangaratiba, Conceição de Jacareí, or Angra dos Reis) and catch a ferry or speedboat to Ilha Grande. Ferries run multiple times a day, and the boat ride takes about 1 hour across sparkling blue water.
Where to Stay in Rio
You’ll find no shortage of fun hostels in Rio to meet fellow travelers. Popular options include More Ipanema Hostel and Ipanema Beach Hostel (both just steps from Ipanema’s surf and sand), as well as the chilled Mango Tree Hostel and El Misti Hostel Ipanema. For a Copacabana option, check out CabanaCopa Hostel near the famous beach. If you prefer a more local vibe, Opa! Hostel in Botafogo is in a cozy neighborhood by the metro, and JO&JOE Rio de Janeiro offers a trendy stay in a beautifully restored mansion at Largo do Boticário.
Ilha Grande – Car-Free Island Paradise 🏝️
Welcome to Ilha Grande, a lush island paradise that’s totally car-free – yep, no cars, no roads, just jungle trails and boat taxis. This island off Rio’s coast is all about pristine beaches and unspoiled nature. The main village, Vila do Abraão, feels delightfully low-key with sandy streets, cozy cafes, and caipirinha bars on the beach. Spend your days hiking through Atlantic rainforest to discover hidden spots like Lopes Mendes Beach, often hailed as one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches with powdery white sand and surf-worthy waves. You can take a boat taxi or trek (~2 hours) to Lopes Mendes – either way, it’s so worth it. Other activities include snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul) to spot colorful fish, kayaking to quiet coves, or hiking up to Pico do Papagaio (Parrot’s Peak) for an epic sunrise view. Don’t forget to swing in a hammock and just enjoy island time – life moves slower here.
Travel Tip
There are no ATMs or cars on Ilha Grande, so come prepared with cash and be ready to walk or boat everywhere. To continue your journey, you’ll need to get back to the mainland from Ilha Grande. Ferries and speedboats run from Abraão back to Angra dos Reis or Conceição de Jacareí. From there, you can catch a bus or drive about 2 hours further down the Green Coast to the next stop: Paraty (also spelled Parati). Some travelers opt for a shuttle transfer (boat + van) from Ilha Grande directly to Paraty – a convenient option if you want to save time. Either way, say tchau to island life and get ready for some colonial charm up ahead!
(You’ll find plenty of pousadas and guesthouses in Vila do Abraão to choose from. It’s easy to meet fellow backpackers on the island, especially if you stay at popular spots like Beach House Ilha Grande or Biergarten Hostel.)
Paraty – Colonial Charm & Jungle Adventures 🏛️🌴
Stepping into Paraty feels like traveling back in time. This small colonial town on Brazil’s Costa Verde is famous for its cobblestone streets and colorful 18th-century buildings. The historic center is pedestrian-only – no cars here either – so you can wander freely among whitewashed churches, art galleries, and cafes in old mansions. Don’t be surprised if you see the streets flood with seawater during full moons – it’s by design, an old town feature to clean the roads at high tide! Paraty’s vibe is super chill and artsy. By day, join a walking tour of the old town, check out the Igreja de Santa Rita (a picturesque old church by the water), and browse shops selling local crafts. By night, the town lights up with live music and street food stalls (try some fresh seafood or the local cachaça – Paraty is known for distilleries producing this sugarcane spirit).
Beyond history, Paraty is also an adventure hub surrounded by jungles, waterfalls, and beaches. You can go jeep trekking to waterfalls like the fun Tobogã Waterfall (where you can slide down a smooth rock into a pool). Another must-do is taking a boat tour of Paraty’s bay – you’ll island-hop to tropical beaches and hidden swim spots (most tours include a grilled lunch on board, yum!). For beach lovers, a short bus or boat ride brings you to Trindade, a village with laid-back beaches like Praia do Sono and Praia do Cachadaço, great for surfing or just lazing under a palm tree. Feeling active? Hike in the nearby Serra da Bocaina National Park for rainforest trails and panoramic viewpoints. Paraty truly blends culture and nature – you could easily spend a few days here soaking it all in.
Travel Tip
Getting from Ilha Grande to Paraty involves a boat + bus combo (unless you took a direct shuttle). From Angra dos Reis, local buses (or driving yourself) take roughly 2 hours to cover the 100 km to Paraty. There’s no direct ferry between Ilha Grande and Paraty, but the overland route is straightforward and scenic, following the coast. If coming straight from Rio, buses run about 5–6 hours to Paraty. Once in Paraty, you can explore the town on foot. To reach Trindade or nearby attractions, local minibuses and tours are available, or rent a bike for short distances.
Where to Stay in Paraty
Paraty has some awesome hostels and guesthouses that match its historic vibe. Casa Viva Paraty is a top pick – it’s a spacious hostel in a charming colonial house, complete with a pool and garden hangout area. It’s located within walking distance of both the Historic Center and the beach, giving you the best of both worlds. The social atmosphere at Casa Viva makes it easy to find new travel buddies for that jeep waterfall tour or a night out. (Insider tip: Paraty is popular on weekends and holidays, so book accommodation ahead if you can, especially in high season.)
Ubatuba – Surf, Sun & Laid-Back Vibes 🏄♂️
Continuing west into São Paulo state, your next stop is Ubatuba, a beachy paradise and unofficial surf capital of the region. Ubatuba boasts over 100 beaches along its coastline, each with its own vibe – from bustling sunbather spots to hidden coves backed by rainforest. This is the kind of place where you might plan to stay one night and end up chilling for a week. The town of Ubatuba itself is fairly small, but stretches along the coast with several beach neighborhoods.
Head to Itamambuca Beach if you want to catch some waves – it’s famous for consistent surf and even hosts competitions. Beginners can take a surf lesson or just watch local pros carve up the waves. For swimming and relaxing, Praia do Félix or Praia Grande offer lovely sands and warm water. Nature lovers can visit the Projeto Tamar in Ubatuba, a sea turtle conservation project where you can see turtles up close and learn about marine life.
Ubatuba is also a gateway to more natural beauty. You can hike the 7 Beaches Trail (Trilha das 7 Praias) for an off-the-beaten-path adventure through coastal forest, popping out at secluded beaches only accessible on foot or by boat. Feeling like island exploration? Consider a boat trip to Ilha Anchieta, a state park island with hiking trails and an old prison ruin (plus lots of monkeys!). By night, Ubatuba has a laid-back nightlife – think beach bars, reggae music, and caipirinhas under the stars. It’s a great place to recharge, connect with fellow travelers, and enjoy a slower pace before heading back to city life.
Travel Tip
Paraty to Ubatuba is only about 70 km (approx. 2 hours by car or bus), making it an easy hop. Buses run at least once daily between the two (Oceano or Reunidas companies), or you can catch a ride with fellow backpackers. Once in Ubatuba, getting around to the various beaches is easiest if you have a car (driving the winding coastal roads is part of the fun). If not, local buses and shared vans connect the main beaches, though expect some waiting. Aim to stay near the beaches you want to spend most time at – distances can be bigger than they look.
Where to Stay in Ubatuba
For a social and fun stay, Green Haven Hostel is a favorite among backpackers – it’s known for its friendly staff and occasional BBQ nights. They even have a bar on-site, making it easy to swap stories with other travelers after a day of surfing. Another option is Green Haven Ilha Anchieta, which has a similar vibe and can help organize boat trips. If you’re looking for a quieter stay, check out Golden Garden Hostel – it’s a bit more laid-back, nestled in a garden setting not far from the beach. Whichever you choose, Ubatuba’s hostels will make you feel right at home in this surf town.
São Sebastião & Maresias – Beach Hop on the Mainland 🏖️
As you continue eastward (and slightly south) along the coast, you reach São Sebastião, another coastal region known for its string of beautiful beaches and beach towns. São Sebastião is actually a municipality that includes famous beach spots like Maresias, Boiçucanga, Camburi, Barra do Sahy, and more. If you have a car, this stretch is prime for beach-hopping – you can drive through winding jungle roads of the Serra do Mar, hitting a different gorgeous beach each day. Maresias is the superstar here: a 5-km stretch of soft sand and strong waves that’s legendary among surfers (Brazilian surf champion Gabriel Medina grew up surfing in Maresias’s waves).
By day, Maresias Beach is all about surfing, swimming, and chilling under umbrellas. By night, the town comes alive with beach clubs, bars, and music – it’s known for a buzzing nightlife scene, especially in summer. If you’re into dancing till late or mingling with São Paulo weekenders, you’ll love it here.
Not into partying? No worries – there are plenty of other beaches with a more relaxed atmosphere. Camburi and Camburizinho (twin beaches separated by a small river) offer a balance of trendy restaurants and natural beauty. Barra do Sahy and Juquehy are smaller, picturesque beaches great for a quiet escape and watching sunsets. Many beaches here are backed by lush hills, and some even have waterfalls nearby for a refreshing freshwater dip after the ocean.
You can also find adventure activities like paragliding in Boiçucanga or hiking trails that lead to viewpoints over the coast. São Sebastião’s mainland beaches give you a taste of local Brazilian beach culture – expect food vendors selling açaí, grilled cheese, and coconuts, families playing frescobol (beach paddle ball), and surfers everywhere. It’s the perfect mix of action and relaxation before the next island stop.
Travel Tip
Ubatuba to São Sebastião (the town center) is around 100 km (approximately 2–3 hours by car), continuing along BR-101. Buses also connect Ubatuba to São Sebastião; if you’re aiming for Maresias or Camburi specifically, you might have to transfer or catch a local bus from São Sebastião’s bus terminal. Maresias is about 25 km north of São Sebastião town. If you’re driving, note that the road is curvy – take it slow and enjoy the views. Parking at popular beaches can fill up on weekends, so going early is smart. If relying on buses, plan ahead since some smaller beaches have limited service. Once in this area, Ilhabela island is just off the coast. To reach Ilhabela, head to São Sebastião’s ferry port in the city center. The ferry to Ilhabela runs frequently (every 30 minutes or so during the day) and takes only about 15–20 minutes to cross the channel. You can take a vehicle on the ferry or go as a foot passenger (the latter is free).
Where to Stay in São Sebastião (Maresias region)
If you want to stay on the mainland and experience the surf town vibes, there are a few hostels and pousadas around. Laika Hostel in Camburi is an awesome choice – it’s located just a few minutes’ walk from Camburizinho Beach. This hostel has a lively, social atmosphere and puts you right in the middle of São Sebastião’s best beach zone. From Camburi, you’re a quick bus or rideshare away from Maresias (or a 15-minute drive). Laika Hostel is known for its friendly vibe; it’s a great base to meet other travelers keen on beach parties or hiking to nearby waterfalls. (If you prefer to stay in Maresias itself, you might find small guesthouses; just know hostels are limited in this area, so Laika is a gem for backpackers.)
Ilhabela – Waterfalls & Tropical Bliss 🏞️🦋
Next up: Ilhabela, which literally means “Beautiful Island” – and it lives up to the name. Ilhabela is a large island (actually an archipelago) just across from São Sebastião, covered by dense Atlantic rainforest and famed for its secluded beaches and waterfalls. In fact, Ilhabela has an astonishing number of waterfalls – reportedly around 360 falls scattered through its jungle interior! The island is mostly protected as a state park, so it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Once you ferry over to Ilhabela, you’ll find the main town center (called Vila or Villa), which has a charming historic feel with colonial buildings, restaurants, and a scenic pier. Many travelers rent a buggy or 4×4 or use local jeeps to explore the island, because some of the best spots are down rough roads.
On the north side, beaches like Praia do Curral and Praia da Feiticeira are easily accessible and great for swimming, with beach bars and calm waters. For something more adventurous, take a jeep tour or tough it out on a bumpy road to Praia de Castelhanos on the wild east side – it’s a stunning, remote beach often ranked among Ilhabela’s most beautiful (surf-friendly and has a waterfall, Cachoeira do Gato, a short hike away).
Hikers will be in heaven here: you can trek through rainforest to find waterfalls like Cachoeira da Toca (which has natural slides) or hike the 10 km trail to Bonete Beach, a traditional fishing village with an epic bay at the end of the world (there’s also a boat taxi to Bonete if you want the views minus the sweat). Don’t miss snorkeling or diving around Ilha das Cabras, a tiny islet with clear waters and lots of fish – it’s a popular spot right off the ferry area. After a day of exploring, head back to the Vila for gelato or a cold beer by the waterfront. Ilhabela manages to be both upscale (it’s a holiday getaway for São Paulo’s elite) and backpacker-friendly, especially if you stick to the hostel scene and public transportation. Just remember to pack the insect repellent – the island’s famous borrachudo mosquitoes are tiny but relentless!
Travel Tip
The ferry from São Sebastião to Ilhabela runs late into the night (24/7, with reduced frequency overnight). If you took a car, you can bring it on the ferry for a fee; otherwise, as a pedestrian it’s free and you can catch a bus or taxi on the island side. Ilhabela has a local bus system that runs along the main coastal road, which helps to reach many beaches. To access harder-to-reach spots like Castelhanos or Bonete, consider joining a guided tour or hiring a 4×4 with a group – these areas are worth it but require some logistics. Try to spend at least a couple of days on Ilhabela to truly savor its beauty. Also, note that some waterfalls might require short, muddy hikes – water shoes or old sneakers will be your friends.
Where to Stay on Ilhabela
One of the most popular hostels on the island is Hostel da Vila – and it’s basically backpacker paradise. This hostel sits on a huge 8,000 m² property just a few minutes’ walk from Ilhabela’s historic center. It’s got a pool, bar, hammocks, and even treehouse-style private rooms. Hostel da Vila is super social, offering activities like group hikes and caipirinha nights. (Fun fact: It was once rated one of the best hostels in the world by Hostelworld users, and it’s easy to see why when you arrive!). Staying here means you can walk to restaurants and bars in the Vila at night, and by day hop on a bus or rent a bike to reach nearby beaches. If Hostel da Vila is booked, don’t worry – Ilhabela has a few other hostels and lots of pousadas, but try to book ahead in summer as weekends can fill up fast with visitors.
São Paulo – Big City Finale 🎉🌆
After all the beaches, islands, and nature, it’s time to dive into Brazil’s largest metropolis: São Paulo (locally nicknamed “Sampa”). Arriving in São Paulo is a bit of a culture shock after the tranquil coast – suddenly you’re surrounded by skyscrapers, busy streets, and an endless array of things happening. This city is huge (over 20 million in the metro area) and is the country’s culinary, cultural, and nightlife capital. Embrace the urban energy and enjoy the grand finale of your journey in style!
What to do in São Paulo? Honestly, what can’t you do! For sightseeing, stroll down Avenida Paulista, the city’s most famous avenue, especially on Sundays when it’s closed to cars and turns into a big street fair with performers and food stalls. Pop into the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) there – even if you’re not a museum person, the building on stilts is an icon and there’s often a cool exhibit or market underneath. Explore the lush Ibirapuera Park, SP’s answer to Central Park, which also houses museums like the Afro-Brazil Museum and often has free concerts. Check out the Liberdade neighborhood – it’s the heart of the largest Japanese community outside Japan, full of tasty ramen shops, sushi, and street markets with Asian-Brazilian goodies. For a dose of art and Instagram-worthy shots, visit Beco do Batman in Vila Madalena, an alleyway covered in vibrant street art (Vila Madalena is also great for café hopping and nightlife). Speaking of nightlife, São Paulo’s club scene is legendary: from samba rock bars to mega-clubs to underground parties, there’s something for everyone. You could catch live music in Barra Funda, sip a cocktail at a chic rooftop bar overlooking the skyline, or dance until dawn in electronic clubs. And we haven’t even talked about food – SP is foodie heaven. Don’t leave without trying a “coxinha” (chicken croquette) at a padaria, a slice of pizza (São Paulo has its own style – thin crust and loaded with toppings), or the classic mortadella sandwich at the Municipal Market.
Travel Tip
Getting to São Paulo from Ilhabela/São Sebastião is straightforward. If you have a car, drive back to the mainland and take the highway (Tamoios or Mogi-Bertioga route) towards the inland and then the Dutra or Ayrton Senna highway to SP – roughly 3 to 4 hours drive. By public transport, frequent buses run from São Sebastião to São Paulo’s terminals (Tietê or Jabaquara), taking around 4–5 hours. It’s usually an overnight bus for those who want to save a day, or you can travel by day to watch the scenery transition from coastal mountains to city sprawl. Once in São Paulo, use the metro or ride-share apps to get around efficiently – traffic can be crazy, so public transit is often faster during rush hour. Plan your sightseeing by neighborhoods to avoid crisscrossing the giant city too much. Also, be security-savvy as you would in any big city: keep an eye on belongings and stick to busy, well-lit areas at night (and absolutely indulge in the nightlife – just take a licensed cab or app-based ride home).
Where to Stay in São Paulo
Sampa has tons of hostels, many of which cater to the social, party-loving backpacker crowd and the digital nomad scene. In the hip Vila Madalena district (known for street art and bars), Ô de Casa Hostel is a standout – it’s got a great on-site bar and courtyard, and it’s a short walk from nightlife (but still on a chill street). Also popular is Vila Rock Hostel, which, as the name hints, has a music theme and a rooftop with a view; it’s located near Avenida Paulista and the bohemian Sumarezinho area. If you want a more boutique vibe, Lamparina Hostel offers a cozy, design-centric atmosphere (perfect for snapping some pics) and is centrally located. For a newer option, Matianellu SP is getting great reviews – it’s clean, modern, and close to public transport, making it easy to explore the city. Wherever you stay, make sure to connect with fellow travelers for a night out in São Paulo – the city can be overwhelming in size, so it’s more fun to explore in a group if possible.
Final Thoughts 🌟
Congratulations – you’ve just traversed the Rio to São Paulo route in the most epic way imaginable! In a single trip, you’ve experienced Brazil’s vibrant city life, idyllic islands, colonial history, surf culture, and the modern metropolis. The beauty of this journey is that you can tailor it to your own pace. Whether you took two weeks or two months stopping at these spots, you’ve seen a fantastic cross-section of Brazil that most domestic travelers themselves dream of. Feel free to linger longer in the places you love (who could blame you for extending a stay in Ilha Grande or Ilhabela?), and don’t be afraid to veer off the suggested path – the Green Coast has many hidden gems beyond the ones listed.
As a Gen Z traveler, you’ve got all the tools (and Insta filters) to make this trip truly yours. Rent that car with friends for a crazy road trip playlist session, or hop between local buses and make friends with other backpackers along the way. Remember that travel in Brazil is generally friendly and informal – a little Portuguese (“oi, beleza?”) can go a long way in getting tips from locals. Most importantly, enjoy every moment: from sunrise surf in Ubatuba to sunset caipirinhas in Paraty, and from waterfall hikes in Ilhabela to nightlife in São Paulo. This route is the kind of adventure that’ll give you stories (and selfies) for a lifetime. Boa viagem – have a great trip, and make it épico! 🚀🙌
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