Parati (often called Paraty) is a small colonial city located 125 miles south-west of Rio de Janeiro along the Costa Verde (Green Coast). It is listed by UNESCO as a designated fishing village site situated by the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest. The Bay of Parati became a large export port for gold after the discovery of some of the world’s richest gold mines in the mountains of Minas Gerais. Today, the city is sought after as an escape destination for Brazilians and many tourists.

See:

• The Casa da Cultura (House of Culture) was opened in 2004 and contains an exhibition on the city’s people, local history and culture. The museum is very high tech using new technologies in its displays.
• Historic Centre – see the old historic buildings and churches as well as the cobbled streets that run through the centre of the city.
• Forte Defensor – built in 1703, it was an important Fort used for the protection of Parati and its gold discoveries.
• The spectacular waterfalls – including Andorinha, Pedra Branca, and Melancia.

Experience:

• Try the Gold Trail (Camniho do Ouro) which is popular among tourists and hikers. The trail was used to transport gold that was found in Minas Gerais and move supplies to the gold mining areas. The region is now a Heritage Listed National Park.
• Escape to one of the many islands and find yourself an isolated, private beach to relax on. Choose one of the many water options available, including swimming, diving and snorkelling.

Secrets of the City:

• Trindade is one of the more popular beaches situated in an old village along the Costa Verde.