Tijuca Islands Snorkeling & Whale Watching Boat Tour from Rio
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Rio’s underwater world on a small-group boat tour to the Tijuca Islands from Barra da Tijuca, with snorkeling gear provided. The excursion offers chances to spot sea turtles, colorful fish, birdlife, and, seasonally, migrating humpback whales (June–August). Travelers swim and walk on island beaches, admire views of Pedra da Gávea and Dois Irmãos, and enjoy intimate access with a limit of 12 passengers per tour. The journey lasts about 3 hours and departs from Ilha da Coroa 2 (Barra), though the meeting point may switch to Urca depending on conditions.
Available options
Rio: Whale watching adventure
Whale watching tour: Witness the giants of the ocean in their natural habitat!<br/>EXTRA FEE - PLEASE READ: FOR THE WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE: There is an additional cost of R$150 per person, to be paid in cash only if whales are spot
3 Hours Snorkel and Swim with Turtles Tour at Tijuca Islands
Duration: 3 hours: Optional snorkeling is available for those who want to dive in!<br/>Swim with colorful marine life: We’ll explore two stunning islands and soak in Rio’s breathtaking scenery.
What's included
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Plus, take advantage of special discounts when booking for groups of 3 or more!
Boat Trip
What's not included
Food and drinks are not included
FOR THE WHALE WATCHING TOUR: There is an additional cost of R$150 BRL per person, to be paid in cash only if whales are spotted during the . If no whales are seen, you don’t pay this extra fee.
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
9 reviews
5★
4
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.5
33 reviews
5★
25
4★
4
3★
0
2★
2
1★
2
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
PLEASE READ!!! THE MEETING TIME MAY VARY FROM 7:30 AM TO 11:30 AM DUE TO TIDE, WIND, AND SEA CONDITIONS.
IN SOME CASES, THE MEETING POINT MAY BE CHANGED TO URCA, BUT ON MOST DAYS, WE DEPART FROM: Ilha da Coroa 2 – Barra da Tijuca.
Important notes
MEETING POINT ADDRESS: ILHA DA COROA 2 BARRA DA TIJUCA
About Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.
Top Attractions
Christ the Redeemer
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
R$84 (including train ticket)
Sugarloaf Mountain
A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.
Nature
2-3 hours
R$88 (round-trip cable car)
Copacabana Beach
One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free
Tijuca National Park
The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Nature
Half day or full day
Free (some attractions may have fees)
Santa Teresa
A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Feijoada
A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
Dinner
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Pão de Queijo
Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
Snack
Vegetarian, but contains dairy.
Moqueca
A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.
Açaí
A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.
Dessert/Drink
Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tijuca National Park
Surfing in Arpoador
Paragliding in Pedra Bonita
Beach lounging in Ipanema
Spa treatments in Copacabana
Yoga in Botafogo
Visiting museums in Centro
Attending a samba show
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Time Zone
GMT-3 (Brasília Time)
Electricity
110V/220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
- • Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
- Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
By train
Central do Brasil
By bus
Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Copacabana
Ipanema
Santa Teresa
Lapa
Botafogo
Day trips
Petrópolis
65 km (40 miles) • Full day
A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.
Paraty
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Búzios
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Festivals
Carnival • February/March (dates vary)
Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary)
New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
- Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
- Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
