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Hiking in Ilhabela: choose the right route

A good hike starts before you reach the trail. Think about fitness, exposure to the weather and the return journey to choose an outing that suits your whole group.

Practical guide · Editorial review 22/09/2026

Trail leading down to Saco do Eustáquio beach, Ilhabela.
Trail leading down to Saco do Eustáquio beach, Ilhabela.
In this guide
  1. Which experience suits you?
  2. Guides and access conditions
  3. Before you set off
  4. Combining hiking and a boat trip

Which experience suits you?

For a mountain viewpoint, Pico do Baepi needs specific preparation. For forest and fresh water, begin with the waterfall guide. Buraco do Cação involves an exposed coastline: a short walk does not mean a low-risk outing.

Look beyond the final photo. Consider the slowest walker, terrain, elevation gain and time needed to return. The route should suit everyone, not just the fittest person.

Guides and access conditions

The municipality’s 2026 guidance lists guides as mandatory on routes including Baepi, Veloso and Três Tombos. Do not assume that a short route is self-guided. Check the specific requirement with the attraction’s management or an accredited guide before setting out.

An online description cannot confirm that a trail is open today. Rain, maintenance and other conditions can affect access. Respect closures and instructions from staff on site.

Before you set off

Take enough water for the route, a light snack, grippy closed shoes, sun protection, insect repellent and a layer for changing weather. Tell someone your route and expected return; do not rely only on mobile coverage.

Allow time to get back in daylight and do not take shortcuts. Stop if the weather deteriorates, thunderstorms develop or a watercourse rises, and follow local advice. Do not attempt to cross a strong current.

Combining hiking and a boat trip

Give demanding activities separate days. A long hike followed by a fixed boat departure leaves little room for fatigue or unexpected delays.

At Bonete, hiking in and arriving by boat are different experiences. Never depend on an unarranged boat ride back: availability and sea conditions must be confirmed first.

This is a planning guide. It does not replace on-site guidance or confirm that a route is open on a particular day.

Add a day at sea

Explore Scalea’s sea experiences and choose the one that fits your itinerary.

Explore Scalea experiences
Editorial references

Editorial review: 22/09/2026.

  • Prefeitura de Ilhabela: Trilhas de diferentes níveis de dificuldade (12/02/2026)
  • Prefeitura de Ilhabela: Estrutura e orientação em trilhas (08/04/2026)
  • Prefeitura de Ilhabela: O que saber antes de viajar (2025)