The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Ilhabela

Things to know before you go to Ilhabela

Ilhabela has over 360 known waterfalls, and around 85% of the island is designated as a national park, providing numerous opportunities for hiking through the rainforest. The island's trails lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden waterfalls, where you can take a swim and cool off in the cold water. Some of the most famous waterfalls on Ilhabela include Cachoeira Da Toca, Casacada del Gato, Cachoeira dos Tres Tombos, and Cachoeira Paqueta, however there are many many more to explore.

In addition, Ilhabela has some of the best snorkeling spots in Brazil. Its pristine beaches are home to a variety of marine life, including turtles and tropical fish, making it a paradise for snorkelers. The clear waters and vibrant underwater scenery provide a memorable experience for both novice and experienced snorkelers. Several companies also offer scuba diving trips.

For those seeking more adrenaline-fueled activities, the island offers guided adventure tours for activities such as rock climbing and abseiling.

It is important to be prepared for the island's notorious black flies, known locally as borrachudos. These insects are a huge pain (literally) leaving itchy bites, so it's advisable to bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to minimize exposure.

Is Ilhabela safe for tourists

Ilhabela is considered a safe destination for visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it is a very different experience compared to larger Brazilian cities. As with any trip, it is still sensible to follow a few simple precautions, but these are more about peace of mind than real risk.

A few tips to stay safe in Ilhabela

• Keep an eye on your belongings at the beach, or ask someone to watch them if you go for a swim

• Don't walk around with large amounts of cash, carry only the cash you need for the day or a credit card

• At night, stick to the main streets or paths where other visitors and locals are walking

• Ask your pousada or host if you are unsure about the best routes or areas to explore

Travel insurance for Ilhabela

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

When travelling to Ilhabela, it is especially important to have travel insurance, as the island’s remote location can make access to specialised medical care more difficult. If you plan to take part in activities such as diving, hiking, rock climbing, abseiling, and others, confirm that your policy specifically covers these adventure sports before your trip.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.