Between the sea and the Serra do Mar, Paraty is walking country — cobbled gold routes, forest paths to empty beaches, and one seriously rewarding summit. Here's the range.
You can walk as little or as much as you like around Paraty. The trails split into three kinds: the historic Gold Trail through the forest, coastal paths to beaches no road reaches, and the peaks for those who want to earn a view.
The Caminho do Ouro is Paraty's signature walk — a restored stretch of the 18th-century stone road that carried gold from Minas Gerais down to the port. You can walk a gentle kilometre or push further uphill through dense Atlantic forest, passing waterfalls and river pools along the way. Guided sections explain the history (and the enslaved labour that laid the stones); the trailhead is a short drive from town.
Some of the best beaches are footpaths only. The trail to Praia do Sono (60–75 min) and onward to Praia dos Antigos is the classic coastal walk; the forest path to Pedra Branca ends at a near-empty inlet. These are moderate hikes over headlands — real shoes, water, and an early start recommended.
The big one: the Pico do Pão de Açúcar do Mamanguá, a steep 2–3 hour climb to a summit overlooking the tropical fjord and the open sea. It's demanding, with an exposed final scramble, so go with a guide and start at dawn. For most, it's the standout hike of the trip.
Short on time or energy? The stroll up to the Forte Defensor Perpétuo gives a full-bay view in 20 minutes, and the historic center itself is a flat, endlessly walkable open-air museum. Whatever you choose: carry water, use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, tell someone your plan for the longer trails, and consider a guide where routes aren't marked. Bianca can match a trail to your fitness and arrange a guide.
Pick your chalet and check live dates on Airbnb, or message Bianca first — she'll help you plan transfers, tours, and the little details.