Planning
What to Pack for Paraty: A Packing List for Sea and Forest
Between boat, waterfall, trail and cobblestone center, Paraty calls for smart packing. The list of what really matters — and what to skip.
Paraty is versatile — in a single day you might be on a boat, inside a waterfall and dining in the historic center. The right packing makes it all easier. Here's what's genuinely worth bringing.
The essentials
- Water-resistant sunscreen and insect repellent — the humidity draws mosquitoes.
- Footwear with good grip for the slippery stones of the waterfalls and the center.
- Water shoes or sandals you don't mind soaking.
- A light rain jacket — Paraty is one of the rainiest regions in the country.
- A dry bag or phone pouch for the boat tours.
- Cash — kiosks and stalls don't always take cards.
For the boat tours
Bring a towel, a dry change of clothes, a hat and sunglasses with a strap. If you have your own mask and snorkel, bring them — the onboard ones don't always fit well. A light layer helps with the breeze on the late-afternoon return.
What to leave at home
High heels don't work on cobblestones — skip them. Hard-shell wheeled suitcases struggle on the paving too; favor a backpack or soft bag. And don't overpack clothes: the dress code is casual the whole time.
