Upon arrival at the airport in Florianopolis, transfer to your chosen hotel or pousada. After settling your belongings, head out for your “Highlights Florianopolis” tour. During this day trip, meet the most beautiful attractions of Florianopolis in just a few hours.

Begin in the city center, and visit Mercado Publico (public market) where many artists, intellectuals and assorted bohemians congregate. Then, wander through stunning colonial houses. After, continue to the highly popular viewpoint, Morro da Cruz, where you can enjoy excellent views of the island and its surroundings. After, drive to Lagoa da Conceição and venture to another viewpoint, this time of a beautiful lagoon. For lunch, head to the small village of Barra de Lagoa, where you can enjoy traditional cuisine, generally of fresh fish. After you’ve refueled, take a dip in the natural pools nearby. This day tour will end at a large sand dune in Praia Joaquina. While here, marvel at the striking views of the sea and put your sandboarding skills to the ultimate test.

Today, embark on a four-hour hike through the Atlantic rainforest to the most beautiful beach in Florianopolis. Traverse along rocky cliffs as you make your way to the beach of Lagoinha do Leste. Lagoinha do Leste leaves any traveler fascinated by its surrounding steep cliffs, lush vegetation, white sand and green sea. Soak up the sun for two hours here, then hike to a small fishing village, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel or pousada.

Hop in the hotel private van and drive to the charming village of Vargem Grande. The rafting team will welcome you and supply you with a life vest, helmet and paddle. Then, you’re ready to enter the Cubatao River. In the beginning of your kayaking adventure, when the water is quiet, you will learn the technical aspect of handling the paddles. Then, as the river floats you farther and farther away from civilization, the true adventure will begin.

Kayaking the Cubatao River becomes more challenging as the number of smaller and faster falls increases. Luckily, each of those falls are followed by slower phases, that invite guests to immerse themselves in the pure water. After you pass by numerous falls, you will arrive at a pristine bay, where you can cliff jump (elevation: 5km) into the water. After an exciting and tiresome day, return to your hotel or pousada and relax for the rest of the evening.

 

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast and then head outside for a two-hour hike to the mystic rocks. This is one of the most beautiful walks on the island, leading you through the lush Atlantic rainforest, and to a beautiful mountain peak. Enjoy the local flora and fauna, and strange rock formations as you trek along. Once you reach the mountain peak, enjoy a unique view of Lagoa da Conceição and its various beaches.

Along with taking in the natural beauty of this hike, you will also learn about the mystic rocks, which were used by the natives of the island, thousands of years ago. Listen to your guide explain the nature conservation project “Salve Floripa,” which works to preserve the Atlantic Rainforest. After your visit, hike down the mountain (approx. 30min), and return to your hotel or pousada.

 

On your final full day in Florianopolis, embark on another kayak tour. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature, as you visit the Lagoa do Peri reserve. This reserve beams with beauty, with its fresh, clear water and lush Atlantic Rainforest terrain. Jeeps will be loaded with kayaks, paddles and life vests. Drive to the southern edge of the lagoon and begin your journey. Kayak past little branches and floods from the rainforest, and arrive at the other riverside, which tends to be a bit denser. Then, keep your eyes open for numerous bird species, metal blue butterflies, and other wildlife. With any luck, you might catch sight of a caiman.

Then, set your kayak to the side and hike a short trail leading you to a majestic waterfall. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the middle of nature, before paddling back to the starting point.

 

In the morning, transfer from your hotel or pousada in Armacao to the Florianopolis airport. Then, board your flight for home or to your next destination.