Achaia Cave: Ilha Grande's Hidden Gem
Explore the stunning rock formations and glowing waters of Achaia Cave, a hidden gem on Ilha Grande's beautiful coastline.
Achaia Cave, also known as Gruta do Acaia, is a mesmerizing tourist attraction located on the picturesque Praia Vermelha da Ilha Grande in Angra dos Reis, Brazil. This stunning natural wonder is famous for its exquisite rock formations, glistening waters, and serene ambiance. As you venture into the cave, you'll be greeted by captivating stalactites and stalagmites that have taken thousands of years to form, creating an awe-inspiring, otherworldly environment. The vibrant colors reflected in the water add an extra layer of beauty, making it a photographer's paradise. The best time to visit Achaia Cave is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sunlight filters through the openings, illuminating the cave in a breathtaking display of natural light. At approximately 8 meters below sea level, a crack allows water to flow into an underground gallery, creating a stony beach inside the cave. Sunlight reflecting on the water creates impressive fluorescence. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around the cave allows visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant marine life that thrives in this coastal paradise. The surrounding area teems with tropical flora and fauna, providing ample opportunity for nature walks and birdwatching. To get to the cave, it is possible to walk from Vermelha Beach in about 2 hours. By boat, it is necessary to know the place to stop and go up along the coast and enter the hole in the floor, going through the crack until you reach the hall.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture stunning photographs.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the waters around the cave.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and slippery areas inside the cave.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure safe travel by boat.
A brief summary to Achaia Cave
- Gruta do Acaiá, Angra dos Reis, Praia Vermelha da Ilha Grande, State of Rio de Janeiro, 28967-000, BR
- Monday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Friday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6:20 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6:20 pm
Getting There
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Boat
Achaia Cave is best accessed by boat from Vila do Abraão, the main hub on Ilha Grande. Several tour operators offer boat trips that include a visit to the cave, often combined with stops at other attractions like Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. These tours typically range from R$80 to R$150 per person, depending on the duration and inclusions. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi boat from Abraão for around R$200-R$300, allowing for a more customized itinerary.
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Walking
For adventurous travelers, it's possible to hike from Praia Vermelha to Achaia Cave, a journey of approximately 2 hours. However, this route is challenging and requires navigating along the coast, sometimes over rocky terrain. It's essential to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for some climbing. There are no mandatory costs associated with walking, but it's advisable to bring water and snacks. Note that this option may not be suitable for everyone due to the difficulty of the terrain.