Things to Do in Paraty

Paraty was a major smuggling port for gold during the 17th and 18th centuries, which is why the Portuguese colonial authorities eventually blocked its harbour to prevent contraband.

The historic centre of Paraty is built on a grid system designed to flood with tides, so streets deliberately slope toward the sea and have no conventional drainage.

Paraty is home to over 60 registered cachaça distilleries, making it Brazil's cachaça capital, and the spirit is protected by geographical indication status when produced in the region.

The town sits at the meeting point of Atlantic rainforest and Atlantic coast, with over 65 nearby islands accessible by boat for snorkeling and hiking.

Paraty's colonial architecture remained largely untouched because the town was economically abandoned after the gold route shifted in the 18th century, preserving its UNESCO-worthy streetscape.

Every July, Paraty hosts the Festival da Mantiqueira, celebrating regional culture, but the most famous event is the biennial Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty (FLIP) held in August.