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Highlights of the Gold Trail Atlantic Forest Walk
The perfect day out for Nature and History lovers, this tour is a fun-packed insight into Paraty past and present.
As you step back in time on the Gold Trail in the Atlantic Forest your expert local guide makes all the difference. This is the paved road built by enslaved Africans in the 18th Century to bring gold out of the interior during the Brazilian Gold Rush. The guide will cover the sugar, gold and coffee economic booms that have shaped modern day Brazil.
An extraordinary feat of engineering the Gold Trail is also a great chance to explore the lush rainforest with its huge biodiversity. How does the Atlantic Forest taste? Find out as the guide identifies edible plants, flowers and mushrooms!
Plunge into freshwater pools and waterfalls in the Atlantic Forest
After walking on the Gold Trail you will stop at freshwater pools and waterfalls. Tarzan's pool is perfect for a refreshing swim.
For the adrenaline junkies this is a chance to try the thrilling Toboggan waterfall. A natural rock waterslide that you can slide down (sitting down safely!) and the locals surf standing up!
Learn all about the history of traditional Cachaça production
Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha, is rumoured to have been invented in Paraty (as recommended by a local doctor!). Whilst this may be disputed, the fact that Paraty produces excellent craft cachaça is beyond doubt. In the 19th century there were over 100 stills in and around Paraty.
One of the few remaining distilleries where the rum is still made in the traditional way, this is a short walk from the falls and a tasting session is included in the visit. Don’t forget your credit card! This is a great stop for souvenirs or gifts.
Tour Gallery
Tour Itinerary
The trail is mostly downhill on very uneven surfaces. Not accessible to wheelchair users and not suitable for people with back and knee problems
Gold Trail Atlantic Forest Walk Reviews
An excellent day in Paraty! Our tour guide Michael was very knowledgeable about the region and taught us a lot about the history of Brazil. We walked along the gold trail and ended at Cachoeira do Tobog (natural waterfalls). This part was incredible and we managed to slide down the rocks with the help of a local guide. We also got to see him slide down on his feet, which was unbelievable! We then had lunch at a family restaurant and visited a rum distillery where we tasted many samples and learned about the process in which it is made. Would definitely recommend this tour! Communication before the tour was brilliant (everything organized via WhatsApp) and transport and value for money were great.
Jade
September 2022
Tour Details
Price
R$960 Private Tour for up to 3 people. Transport included
Schedule
9:00am pickup by car from your Paraty Accommodation.
Duration
5 Hours Total | 2 hours walking with breaks
Difficulty
Easy to Medium. Mostly downhill with uneven surfaces
Group Size
Up to 3 people | Contact us for larger groups
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Is there a cancellation charge?We offer Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before the Tour starts (local time)
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Do I need kayaking experience?No! Most of our clients have little or no kayaking experience. We provide paddling and safety instruction for kayaking on the protected waters of the bay of Paraty.
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What if it rains?Tours run rain or shine! Kayaking in the rain can be fun. But we understand that it's not for everyone. In case of heavy, persistent rain we offer Free Cancellation with Full Refund. Please note that we don't cancel tours solely on the basis of the weather forecast as it is often wrong. Paraty Explorer is a fan of Alfred Wainwright, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".
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What do I need to bring on the Kayak Tour?Water - Minimum 1.5L Cash Swimsuit (shorts/ bikini) Sunglasses UV long-sleeved rashvest Hat Sunscreen Snack Repellent Camera
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What route does the Kayak Tour take?Kayak tour on the flat waters of the bay of Paraty stopping at one or two beaches and paddling through the mangrove on the way back, providing the tide is high enough. Route may change depending on the daily weather/tide.
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What's included in the Kayak Tour?Stable double sea kayaks to ensure your safety and fun. Lifejackets (mandatory use) to fit everyone, including small sizes for younger children State registered, English speaking tour guides with American Canoe Association (ACA) training. Dry bags for storing phones and other things you dont want to get wet.
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Where does the tour depart from?Pontal Beach - next to Lapinha kiosk - the last one on the beach. https://goo.gl/maps/DmMVXS4SfeoBMNQ37
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Are there any age requirements for the tour?12 years old plus for the regular tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For families with young children (from 5 years old) we recommend a private tour.
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How are the tour route conditions?The trail is mostly downhill on very uneven surfaces. Not accessible to wheelchair users and not suitable for people with back and knee problems
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Are there any age requirements for the Gold Trail Tour?Tour is open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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What do I need to bring on the Gold Trail Tour?Water - minimum 1L, Cash or card for lunch Comfortable shoes for walking Hat Sunglasses Swimsuit Rain gear Sunscreen Snack Repellent
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Where does the tour depart from?Pickup by car at tour Paraty Accommodation at 9am
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What if it rains?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel with full refund. Please note that we don't cancel tours solely on the basis of the weather forecast as it is often wrong. Paraty Explorer is a fan of Alfred Wainwright, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".
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What's not included in the tour?Lunch Drinks Personal expenses.
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What do I need to bring on the Mamangua Sugarloaf Peak Hike?Water - minimum 1.5L Light clothes comfortable walking shoes or trainers Bring/wear swim stuff for after the hike. Rain gear Sunscreen Hat Sunglasses Snacks (no restaurants on route) Repellent Cash/Card for lunch
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What's Included in the Tour?Fastboat return from Paraty tourism pier to Mamangua English speaking guide
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What if it rains?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel with full refund. Please note that we don't cancel tours solely on the basis of the weather forecast as it is often wrong. Paraty Explorer is a fan of Alfred Wainwright, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".
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How are the tour route conditions?This is an intensely steep hike on an uneven trail through the Atlantic Forest. Not accessible to wheelchair users and not suitable for people with back and/or knee problems.
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Are there any age requirements for the tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult (50% discount for children under 14).
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What if it rains?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel with full refund. Please note that we don't cancel tours solely on the basis of the weather forecast as it is often wrong. Paraty Explorer is a fan of Alfred Wainwright, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".
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What do I need to bring on the Melancia Falls Hike?Water - minimum 1.5L Light clothes Comfortable walking shoes or trainers Swimsuit Rain gear Sunscreen Hat Sunglasses Snacks (no restaurants on route) Repellent Cash/Card
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How are the tour route conditions?Hiking trail through the forest on uneven terrain, with no road access. Not accessible to wheelchair users and not suitable for people with back and knee problems.
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Are there any age requirements for the tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult (50% discount for children under 14).
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What's Included in the Tour?Transport to the trailhead English speaking guide
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How big is the boat?The boats can take groups of up to 10 people comfortably. For larger groups we have more spacious boats.
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What's included in the Tour?✅ Included in the tour Cooler with ice cubes Experienced local Boatman Floaters Mask and Snorkel Seasonal fruits ❌Not included in the tour English speaking Captain (contact us if you would prefer one) Car transportation to the pier Meals
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What do I need to bring on the Boat Tour?Light clothes Swimsuit Sunscreen Hat Sunglasses Cash/Card
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What is the minimum age for this tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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Where does the tour depart from?The Tourism Pier https://maps.app.goo.gl/HEyGvkaYZUpA4wAv5
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What is the sea temperature like?Swimmable all year! The average year round sea temperature is over 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Celsius).
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What if it rains?In case of heavy, persistent rain you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel. Please note that we don't cancel tours solely on the basis of the weather forecast as it is often wrong. Paraty Explorer is a fan of Alfred Wainwright, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".
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What route does the tour take?We usually make 4 stops. 2 stops at islands and 2 stops at beaches. But as a private tour you can decide with the captain on the day. See the itinerary above for some of our recommendations.
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Are there any age requirements for the Kayak Course?Minimum age is 14 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For families we recommend private courses - contact us for more info.
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Where does the course take place?The Kayak Course takes place on the flat, warm waters of the Bay of Paraty. We will paddle approximately 4-5 hours with breaks in between, stopping at islands and beaches for theory and onland demonstration and practice. We will also paddle the mangrove, providing the tide is high enough.
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What do I need to bring on the Kayak Course?Water - Minimum 1.5L Cash Swimsuit (shorts/ bikini) Sunglasses UV long-sleeved rashvest Hat Sunscreen Snacks for lunch Repellent Camera We provide dry bags for phones.
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Do I need to have previous kayaking experience to take the course?No previous kayaking experience is required for the ACA level 2 course! We will begin with the basics and build your skill set and confidence. We paddle for 4 to 5 hours during the day with plenty of breaks. To get the most out of the course you should be fairly fit and comfortable swimming or floating (with lifejacket) in deep water.
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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What do I need to bring on the City Tour?Cash/Card Comfortable shoes for walking Rain gear or umbrella (if appropriate)
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What route does the tour take?We will be walking on uneven terrain through the historic Old Town Centre of Paraty.
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Where does the tour depart from?CIT - The Tourist Information Center. https://maps.app.goo.gl/EfnUjnor7vvxFPmU7
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What is the minimum age for this tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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What is the minimum age for this tour?18 years or older. Contact us for private Family tours to include younger participants.
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What is the accommodation like?Lodge-based tour. Bed Sheets and Towels included. Electric warm water showers, sockets for charging electrical appliances. Limited internet/ Wi-Fi connection.
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What do I need to bring on the Tropical Fjord Kayak Trip?Sunglasses Sunscreen Long sleeve rash vests Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap Flashlight/ Torch/ headlamp Insect repellent and after bite treatment Trail/running shoes for hiking Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept. Rain gear Daypack 25l Swimsuit Evening wear (sweats or long pants) Sleepwear Cash
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What's Included in the Tour?✅ Included in the tour 02 nights accommodation in cabins with breakfast 02 dinners 03 lunches (snack style) All kayak equipment Registered Tour Guide with experience in sea kayaking Drinking water ❌Not included in the tour Drinks and personal expenses.
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What route does the tour take?03 day itinerary, subject to changes to ensure the enjoyment and safety of participants. The itinerary will depend on the weather (mainly the wind), sea conditions (tide, swell, currents), and the disposition of the participants! Day 01: Paraty to Mamanguá Day 02: Mamanguá - Hike to the Sugarloaf and paddle to the mangrove/waterfalls Day 03: Mamanguá to Paraty
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What type of equipment do you provide?We provide all kayak equipment - individual or double sea kayaks (86cm x 47cm cockpits), paddles (imported), lifejackets (mandatory use), spraydecks/ skirts, waterproof bags (2 x 30l per person). Discounts for those who bring their own kayak. You'll also be accompanied by an accredited tour guide specialised in kayaking with safety and rescue training from the ACA (American Canoe Association).
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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Where does the tour depart from?9am at Pontal Beach - next to Lapinha kiosk - the last one on the beach. https://goo.gl/maps/DmMVXS4SfeoBMNQ37
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What do I need to bring on the Saco Bravo Waterfall Hike?Water - Minimum of 1.5L per day (can be purchased on route) Sunglasses Sunscreen Hat or baseball cap Flashlight/ Torch/ headlamp, Insect repellent, Trail/running shoes for hiking Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept Rain gear Daypack 25l Swimsuit Evening wear (sweats or long pants) Sleepwear. Cash
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What is the accommodation like?Cottages with hot water showers, sockets for charging electrical appliances. Bed sheets and towels provided. Limited Wi-Fi connection in the village.
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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What is the route like?Route is subject to changes to ensure fun and safety for participants. The itinerary will depend on the weather (mainly the wind), sea conditions (tide, waves, currents), and the disposition of the participants. 02 day itinerary. Day 01: Paraty - Laranjeiras - Sono Beach - Ponta Negra Day 02: Ponta Negra - Saco Bravo Waterfall - Ponta Negra - Paraty
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What is the minimum age for this tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult (50% discount for children under 14 years old).
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What's Included in the Tour?✅ Included in the tour 01 night accommodation in shared room in cottage with breakfast 01 dinner Taxi boat from Ponta Negra back to Laranjeiras on Day 02 State-registered hiking Tour Guide with experience in trekking and first aid training in remote areas (NOLS, ASHI). ❌Not included in the tour Lunches / Snacks on the Trail, Transportation to and from the beginning of the trail in Laranjeiras. (about 30 mins drive from Paraty) Drinks and personal expenses.
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What do I need to bring on the Costa Verde Kayak Trip?Sunglasses Sunscreen Long sleeve rash vests, Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap Flashlight/ Torch/ headlamp, Insect repellent, Trail/running shoes for hiking Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept Rain gear Daypack 25l Swimsuit Evening wear (sweats or long pants) Sleepwear. Cash
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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What type of equipment do you provide?We provide all kayak equipment - individual or double sea kayaks (86cm x 47cm cockpits), paddles (imported), lifejackets (mandatory use), spraydecks/ skirts, waterproof bags (2 x 30l per person). Discounts for those who bring their own kayak.
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What route does the tour take?02 day itinerary, subject to changes to ensure the enjoyment and safety of participants. The itinerary will depend on the weather (mainly the wind), sea conditions (tide, swell, currents), and the disposition of the participants! Day 01: Paraty - South Side of Paraty Bay - Vermelha Beach Day 02: Vermelha Beach - North side of Paraty Bay - Paraty
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What's Included in the Tour?✅ Included in the tour 01 night accommodation with breakfast 01 dinner 02 lunches All kayak equipment State-registered Tour Guide with experience in sea kayaking Drinking water. ❌Not included in the tour Drinks and personal expenses.
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What is the minimum age for this tour?For all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For families we recommend private tours - contact us for more info.
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What is the accommodation like?With bar / restaurant, electric showers, sockets for charging electrical appliances. Bed linen and towels provided. Good cel phone reception/ No Wi-Fi.
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What do I need to bring on the Kayak Camping Trip?Tent or sleeping hammock Sleeping bag Sunglasses Sunscreen Long sleeve rash vests, Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap Flashlight/ Torch/ headlamp, Insect repellent and after bite treatment Trail/running shoes for hiking Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept Rain gear Daypack 25l Swimsuit Evening wear (sweats or long pants) Sleepwear. Cash
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What is the accommodation like?Camping sites with basic structure. In some places we will have electric showers, sockets to charge electrical appliances. Cel phone coverage good, little/no Wi-Fi.
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What's Included in the Tour?✅ Included in the tour 04 nights camping with breakfast 04 dinners 05 lunches (snack style) All kayak equipment State-registered Tour Guide with experience in sea kayaking, and safety and rescue training from the American Canoe Association (ACA) Drinking water ❌Not included in the tour Drinks and personal expenses. Tents
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What type of equipment do you provide?We provide all kayak equipment - individual or double sea kayaks (86cm x 47cm cockpits), paddles (imported), lifejackets (mandatory use), spraydecks/ skirts, waterproof bags (2 x 30l per person). Discounts for those who bring their own kayak.
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What route does the tour take?05 day itinerary, subject to changes to ensure the enjoyment and safety of participants. The itinerary will depend on the weather (mainly the wind), sea conditions (tide, swell, currents), and the disposition of the participants! Day 01: Paraty to Mamanguá Day 02: Mamanguá Day 03: Mamanguá to Praia Grande da Cajaíba. Day 04: Praia Grande da Cajaíba to Ponta Negra Day 05: Ponta Negra to Camburi
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What is the Postponement and Cancellation Policy?In case of bad weather you can switch to another tour, postpone or cancel.
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Do I need previous sea kayaking experience for this tour?This is a challenging expedition of approximately 100km, so it is not suitable for beginners. This trip is for paddlers with experience of open water conditions, trained in assisted rescue and used to paddling in the Surf Zone.
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What is the minimum age for this tour?Participants must be 18 years or older.
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Are there any age requirements for the Kayak Course?Minimum age is 14 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For families we recommend private courses - contact us for more info.
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What is the accommodation like?Guesthouse accommodation close to the historic old town centre (2 nights with breakfast) House with pool & BBQ area. Rates based on 2 people sharing. Bed linen and towels provided. Fast Wi-Fi.
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What's Included in the Course?✅ Included in the tour 02 nights accommodation 02 breakfasts All sea kayak equipment rental (individual kayak, lifejacket, paddle, spraydeck); ACA (American Canoe Association) certified Kayak Instructor state-registered Tour Guide ACA course participation certificate. ❌Not included in the tour Meals (excluding breakfast) Drinks Personal expenses.
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What do I need to bring on the Kayak Course?Water - Minimum 1.5L Snacks for lunch Sunglasses Sunscreen Long sleeve rash vests Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap Insect repellent and after bite treatment Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept. Rain gear Swim stuff Drybag
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Are any meals provided?Breakfast: Breakfast included on both days Lunch: Each participant takes his or her own picnic lunch/ snacks on both days (supermarket nearby for shopping). Dinner: At the end of the first day we have a BBQ by the pool at the accommodation (we split the shopping bill).
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What do I need to bring?Tent or sleeping hammock Sleeping bag Sunglasses Sunscreen Long sleeve rash vests, Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap Flashlight/ Torch/ headlamp, Insect repellent and after bite treatment Trail/running shoes for hiking Waterproof sandals or flip flops Light jacket or fleece Pullover/ jumper – if travelling from May to Sept Rain gear Daypack 25l Swimsuit Evening wear (sweats or long pants) Sleepwear. Cash
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Is it possible to camp on the beaches in Paraty?Wild camping is not allowed in protected areas. However, there are some authorized camp sites with basic facilities in the local caiçara villages along the coast.
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What is included in the rental price?We supply all kayak equipment – single ocean kayak or double ocean kayak (86cm x 47cm cockpits), paddles (imported: Werner, Bending Branches), life jackets (mandatory use), skirts, waterproof bags (2 x 30l per person), pumps, tow ropes. We'll also help you plan your trip and give you tips on where to go and stay.
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Are there any age requirements for renting a kayak?Minimum 18 years or older, remembering that we only rent to groups with experienced paddlers.
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Do I need previous kayaking experience?We consider the experience of the paddlers in your group, the experience of the group leader (the person responsible for the expedition) and the level of difficulty of the itinerary. If you have little or no sea kayaking experience we recommend a guided multiday trip.
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Which route should I take?You define the route and duration with our guidelines. We recommend a 03 day course based on our 3 day Mamanguá Kayaking tour, the classic paddle of Brazil.
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