Ilha de Paquetá

Paquetá Island, the second largest in Guanabara Bay, is noted for its gigantic pebble- shaped rocks, butterflies and orchids. Its name means ‘many shells’ in Tupi, but it has also been called the Ilha dos Amores. The only real reason to come here is for the wonderful views but there are a few historical buildings on the island including the house of José Bonifácio, a Cariocan anti-slavery campaigner, and the newly refurbished Solar D’El Rei, which houses a library. At the southwest tip is the interesting Parque Darke de Mattos, with beautiful trees, lots of birds and a lookout on the Morro da Cruz. The island has several beaches, but the water is none too clean. The only means of transport are bicycles and horse-drawn carriages (many have harnesses which cut into the horse’s flesh). Neither is allowed into the Parque Darke de Mattos. A tour by trenzinho (tractor), costs US$1.25, or just wander around on foot (quieter and free); bicycles can also be hired. The island is very crowded at weekends and on public holidays, but is usually quiet during the week.