How to get to Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro: a practical guide with all the options

Miguel Arenas Lavalle Updated on Aug 1, 2025

Book your crossing or transfer to Ilha Grande with Ilha Tour

If you're planning to visit this incredible destination and want to know how to get to Ilha Grande from Rio de Janeiro, we at ILHA TOUR have prepared a complete guide with all travel options.

This content is ideal for both those who already live in Rio and those coming from other states and arriving at airports or bus terminals. It is also useful for those who want more autonomy and intend to make the journey on their own, whether by car, bus, or ride-sharing app.

Keep reading and find out which option best suits your travel style.

Where are you going in Ilha Grande?

The main arrival point is Vila do Abraão, where most of the island's accommodations, agencies, restaurants, tour departures, and shops are concentrated. It is also where the main crossing options to Ilha Grande arrive, departing from Mangaratiba, Conceição de Jacareí, or Angra dos Reis.

Among these, Mangaratiba is usually the most practical for those coming from Rio, as it is the closest boarding point to the capital.

Transfer to Ilha Grande from Rio

The most practical and hassle-free way to get directly to the Island is to opt for an all-inclusive transfer to Ilha Grande. We at ILHA TOUR offer this option with boarding in Rio and disembarking on the Island, so you don't have to worry about any logistical details.

How it works

We organize transfers by car or van, in private or shared modes, with three departure times from Rio de Janeiro and three return times. Boarding points include South Zone, Downtown, Barra, Airports (Galeão and Santos Dumont), and Novo Rio Bus Terminal.

The sea crossing to the Island is also included in the package. Our team accompanies you to your final destination in Vila do Abraão, ensuring peace of mind from beginning to end.

Who usually chooses this option

Tourists with little time, families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone arriving by plane or bus who wants a convenient and safe option to get to Ilha Grande.

How to go to Ilha Grande by car or motorcycle

If you prefer to drive, it is also possible to travel to Mangaratiba, from where fast crossing options depart. The most direct route is via BR-101 (Rio–Santos), approximately 110 km to the pier, which takes about 2 hours.

Upon arrival, you will find paid and secure parking lots near the boarding location, where you can leave your vehicle while on the Island.

Then, just proceed to the crossing. We recommend the Flex Boat from @voudebarco, but there is also the CCR ferry, which we explain below.

Bus from Rio to Mangaratiba

Another option for those who want to get to Ilha Grande by public transport is to take a bus from Novo Rio Bus Terminal to Mangaratiba. The company responsible for this route is Viação Costa Verde, and schedules vary depending on the day of the week.

The journey takes an average of 2h30 to 3h, and disembarkation is near the pier, from where you can proceed to the crossing to Ilha Grande with Flex Boat or CCR ferry.

This alternative works well but requires attention to schedules so as not to miss boarding, as boat departures are not frequent.

Crossing to Ilha Grande: Flex Boat or CCR ferry

After arriving in Mangaratiba, you will need to cross to the Island. Here we explain the two main crossing options:

Flex Boat – VOU DE BARCO

The Flex Boat is a fast vessel, departing at 9 AM and returning at 5 PM. The journey takes about 35 minutes and is done comfortably, with direct boarding at the pier.

This is the preferred option for those who want to arrive quickly and peacefully in Vila do Abraão.

CCR Ilha Grande Ferry

The CCR ferry is a more economical option. It departs from Mangaratiba at 8 AM and returns at 5 PM, costing around R$20 per leg. However, the journey is much longer, about 2h30 in duration, and can be uncomfortable for those who tend to get seasick.

What is the best way to get there?

The best choice depends on what you are looking for.

Total convenience? We recommend the transfer to Ilha Grande with ILHA TOUR.
Autonomy? Drive to Mangaratiba and make the crossing on your own.
Economy? Go by bus to Mangaratiba and use the CCR ferry.

Important: check updated information

Schedules and boarding points may change depending on the date, season, and crossing operator. Transfer boarding locations vary according to a pre-defined table of addresses and meeting points.

If you have any doubts, contact our team. We at ILHA TOUR help you choose the best option for your case, considering time, departure location, type of crossing, and other preferences.