Barra da Tijuca · Rio de Janeiro
Feel Rio's ocean the way the whales do.
Small-boat whale watching, sunset sails and mangrove paddles out of Barra da Tijuca — built for travelers chasing the aquatic side of Rio de Janeiro.
Why Raiz do Mangue
Rio de Janeiro isn't just Copacabana and Corcovado. It's alive below the waterline.
We run small-group boats out of Marina da Barra so you meet Rio's ocean the way locals do — close, unhurried, and led by people who read these waters every day.
Seasons on the water
Whales logged since 2018
Travelers hosted
Average guest rating
On the water
Five ways to meet the ocean
Every tour launches from Marina da Barra in a licensed boat with a local guide aboard.
Humpback Whale WatchingLicensed SkippersSmall-Group BoatsSunset SailingMangrove Kayak & SUPSnorkel CovesPrivate Charters
From the deck
What travelers say after
“Two humpbacks surfaced fifteen meters from the boat. Our guide cut the engine and we just sat there in silence. Best hour of our whole Rio trip.”
“Paddled through the mangroves at sunrise, then watched the sun drop behind Pedra da Gávea on the sail back. Completely different Rio than the postcards.”
“Small boat, small group, huge ocean. Felt like a Hawaii-style tour but with samba playing at the dock when we got back.”
“Our guide spotted a pod before any of us saw a thing. You can tell these people are on the water every single day.”
Marina da Barra · Daily departures
Your seat on the water is waiting.
Whale season runs July through November. Boats are small and seats go fast — reserve yours before you land in Rio.
Reserve Your Spot