The island served as a prison colony for much of the 20th century, specifically at the Cândido Mendes Penitentiary, which was demolished in 1994.
Ilha Grande was once a pirate hideout and a stop for slave ships during the colonial era.
The park's marine ecosystem is one of the only places in Brazil where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Guanabara Bay converge with such distinct biodiversity.
Lopes Mendes Beach is frequently cited as one of the top ten beaches in the world due to its pristine, underdeveloped state and fine white sand.
The park is part of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site known for its extreme biodiversity concentration.
Ilha Grande State Park is a massive protected nature reserve covering over 12,000 hectares on Ilha Grande, an island off the coast of Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro. The park encompasses the majority of the island's territory, protecting its tropical Atlantic Forest, coastal ecosystems, and diverse marine life. It features over 100 beaches, including the renowned Lopes Mendes, which is accessible primarily via hiking trails. The terrain is rugged and mountainous, with Pico da Pedra d'Água reaching approximately 1,031 meters in elevation. Infrastructure is limited to protect the ecosystem, meaning there are no cars on the island; transportation is via boat or foot. The park serves as a critical refuge for endangered species, including the brown howler monkey and the maned sloth. Much of the island's interior consists of dense, primary and secondary rainforest maintained by the state conservation agency. The coastline is marked by significant historical ruins and a network of traditional fishing communities.
The viewpoint at the summit of Pico do Papagaio for a panoramic view of the island and surrounding bay.
Pack high-quality mosquito repellent and waterproof gear for hiking through the rainforest.
Carry sufficient cash, as digital payment infrastructure is unreliable in more remote parts of the island.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes rather than sandals for the cross-island trails.
Attempting to hike between major villages without a guide or proper map, as the mountain trails are challenging and poorly marked in sections.
Strict 'leave no trace' policies are enforced; removing shells, plants, or rocks is prohibited.
