Camping Sombra dos Coqueirais

Ilha Grande’s rainforests are properly pristine, untouched by development thanks to its many years as a leper colony. That also means that lots of native wildlife still calls this place home: as you trek along the trails (for which maps are available) you may well be accompanied by monkeys, colourful birds and, if you’re really lucky, a glimpse of a capybara. Hiking trails of various lengths lead to points of interest including abandoned buildings, swimming spots and waterfalls, and one of the most popular leads to the surf waves of Praia Lopes Mendes. And if you’re wondering how you’re going to manage to navigate that far with a board under your arm… leave it behind, as there are rentals to be had at the beach. If you’d rather focus on the beach than the hike, stroll down to Vila Abraão’s own sandy stretch, or perhaps hire kayaks or paddleboards in town to paddle to nearby sheltered coves. Folk who dream of deserted sands can board boat trips to fulfill such wishes in the marine reserve on the far side of the island.