1. What Brazilian address and phone number do I use on my visa application?
2. What clothes should I bring?
3. What sort of footwear do you suggest?
4. What sort of water/fanny pack system do I need?
5. What if I can't swim?
6. I never kayaked before. Is that a problem?
7. How physically tough is the program?
8. What if I don't want to lose weight?
9. Is the diet still based on 1,500 calories a day?
10. Where do I meet on Sunday upon my arrival in Rio?
11. How do I get from the airport to the Paraty?
12. What happens if I miss the official Sunday morning pickup?
13. Can I use credit cards in Paraty? Should I bring cash?
14. Are there any security issues?
15. Is there phone service available? Will my Blackberry or cell phone work? Internet?
16. How is the new location/program different from the old one?
17. Is there an alternative means of transport?
18. What if I arrive in Rio before Sunday?
19. Are there any bugs?
20. Will I be very exposed to the sun?
21. Is there Malaria or Dengue fever in Paraty?

1. What Brazilian address and phone number do I use on my visa application?
The Brazilian address to use on your visa application is:
Condominio Portal de Paraty
Rua 6, Quadra 5, Casa 1
CEP 23970 - 000
Paraty - RJ - Brasil
Please note that this is our mailing address and not the location of our facilities.
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2. What clothes should I bring?
See our "What to Bring List" on the sample itinerary page. Remember that you are coming to a tropical climate. The most practical scenario is to kayak in your swimming gear and have a pair of shorts and T-shirt for hiking. So, keep it light and simple! The weather is pleasant during the day, but bring a sweatshirt for the evening. The cooler months in Brazil are June, July and August, with warm, pleasant days and cooler nights. There is a laundry service available for U$15, which means you can bring less clothing.
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3. What sort of footwear do you suggest?
An all-terrain lightweight shoe is a great all-rounder. A synthetic hiking shoe (eg Gore-Tex) with good traction is lighter and more versatile. Preferably, your footwear should be broken in before arrival. We recommend sandals for lounging around the facility.
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4. What sort of water/fanny pack system do I need?
We recommend a Camelbak with a 100oz bladder. The water consumption can be quite extensive on some of the hikes. A camelbak is more practical from a drinking point of view because the tube is much more accessible than reaching back to pull out bottles of water. Whichever system you opt for should have some space for holding a small lunch, swimsuit, sunscreen and camera.
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5. What if I can't swim?
Life jackets are issued to all guests for water activities. Many non-swimmers have participated in the program. 
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6. I never kayaked before. Is that a problem?
No. Many of the guests to date have never kayaked before and learned the techniques quickly. We offer thorough introductory paddle and safety instruction as part of the program. 
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7. How physically tough is the program?
This is an intense program. With determination, motivation and a basic level of fitness, we will help you successfully complete the program. 
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8. What if I don't want to lose weight?
If you request a supplementary diet, you will be given extra servings and additional food. 
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9. Is the diet still based on 1,500 calories a day?
Our in-house chef has designed a delicious and hearty menu based on roughly 1500 calories a day. Specific dietary restrictions and requests are accommodated as much as possible.
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10. Where do I meet on Sunday upon my arrival in Rio ?
Guests fly into Rio international airport on a Saturday, (we can arrange a transfer from the airport to your Hotel if you would like, ask for details) the day before we pick you up (Sunday morning) at the Ipanema Plaza (we can also make your reservation for your stay). The hotel address is Rua Farme de Amoedo, 34 - Ipanema , Rio de Janeiro - (phone 55 21 3687-2000). Pick up time 11:00AM. If you prefer to arrive on Sunday, we will pass at Rio International Airport between 12:00 and 12:30 PM to pick up you there. The meeting point is at the Demoiselle Restaurant (American Bar), 3rd Floor, Terminal 1. After that time, alternative non-scheduled transport can be arranged at the guest own expense.
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11. How do I get from the airport to the Paraty?
On your arrival at the airport, you will be transported by bus or van. (about 4 hours)
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12. What happens if I miss the official Sunday morning pickup?
Call us and we will organize alternative transport. The number dialed from a Brazilian phone is: Area code (24) 7834-0134
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13. Can I use credit cards in Paraty? Should I bring cash?
It is possible to change dollars here in Paraty and at the airport. Many businesses in Paraty also accept credit cards. There are ATMs and banks in Paraty. Some souvenirs can be bought on Saturday morning.
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14. Are there any security issues?
Paraty is very safe and tourist friendly.
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15. Is there phone service available? Will my Blackberry or cell phone work? Internet?
There is no landline telephone service available at the BSA lodge. Most Blackberrys and cell phones that guests bring do work (we ask that guests use them only in their room, so as not to disturb the tranquillity of the group) Internet service is available for guest use and the hotel has Wi-Fi.
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16. How is the new location/program different from the old one?
We are now located in a more pristine and tranquil location nestled in historic town of Paraty . ACTIVITIES: Challenging hikes and kayaking are still the cornerstones of the program, although there is less kayaking now. We also use boats on some days to go to and from trail heads. Overall, the new program allows for more time for relaxation and reflection while remaining very challenging. MENU: Our menu is tastier and more wholesome than ever thanks to our new chef. We are dedicated to serving the freshest, all natural ingredients. TRANSPORT: The van ride from Rio takes about 4 hours.
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17. Is there an alternative means of transport?
There is a helicopter service available between Paraty and Rio airport. Please contact our reservations department for pricing. Remember that if you plan to use the helicopter service for arrival or departure there is limited space available for clothing.
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18. What if I arrive in Rio before Sunday?
You can stay at one of the main hotels and meet us at the pickup point mentioned above. We can provide assistance with hotel bookings (see recommended hotels on reservations page)
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19. Are there any bugs?
The bug population (particularly mosquitoes) is highest in the hot summer months of January and February, and tends to diminish as the temperature decreases from April onwards. This makes hiking more enjoyable and sleeping a pleasure. We do keep a supply of bug repellent on-site, but if you are particularly sensitive, then bring your own preferred brand.
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20. Will I be very exposed to the sun?
Yes. Appropriate protection from the sun is recommended.
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21. Is there Malaria or Dengue fever in Paraty?
Cases of malaria in this area are almost unheard of. The region of Paraty has had cases of dengue over the last few years, but with a very concerted effort at eradication by the government, this year it has not been a problem.
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