Gigoia Island

What is Gigoia Island?

Marina with boats docked on the water, lush green trees, and mountains in the background under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Gigoia Island, tucked into Barra da Tijuca’s lagoon system in Rio de Janeiro, is a small, upscale residential enclave known for its tranquil canals, wooden boardwalks, and a charming cluster of waterfront restaurants and bars favored by locals and celebrities. Accessible by short scenic boat rides, the island blends lush mangrove scenery with a relaxed village-like atmosphere.

Offering a quieter more intimate alternative to Rio’s busier beach neighborhoods while remaining conveniently close to urban amenities, shops, and vibrant nightlife.

A group of five diverse people sitting in a boat, smiling and socializing during a sunny day with green trees and buildings in the background.
A small white motorboat with a canopy moving through a green river, bordered by trees, under a partly cloudy sky.
View from a boat traveling through a canal with overhanging mangrove trees, sunlight filtering through the leaves, and houses along the water's edge.
A boat docked along a river with a mountain in the background, green trees on the riverbank, and a wooden dock in a tropical setting.
View of a river with a mountain and lush trees in the background, blue sky with scattered clouds.
A group of crocodiles resting on a muddy, wet surface near green bushes in a swampy area.
A heron standing in shallow water near a dense bush or mangrove forest at the water's edge.
Group of five diverse women and one man standing together outdoors near a river with trees and a boat in the background, smiling at the camera on a sunny day.
A river with a white heron standing in the water near a tree. In the background, there are houses and lush green trees.
View from a boat approaching a mangrove forest, with dense green foliage overhead and water below, in a tropical setting.

What to Expect

Discover Ilha da Gigoia, little known even among locals. A 40-minute boat ride with a chance to see wildlife (broad-snouted caimans, capybaras, and birds). After the boat ride you will have a chance to walk the island visiting craft shops and cafés. If your package includes lunch it will be at a local restaurant and include a starter and a main course (desserts and drinks not included).

Tour Highlights

Capybaras
A capybara resting on grass near a body of water with green foliage in the background. 
Boat Tour
Group of five diverse people sitting on a boat, some looking at their phones, surrounded by green trees and water 
Island Exploration
Group of people gathered outdoors in front of a signboard, surrounded by trees and buildings.