A dynamic coastal neighbourhood synonymous with leisure, luxury and nightlife, Copacabana is characterised by million-dollar penthouses, stunning neoclassical buildings and tiny apartments set against a magnificent backdrop of jungle-clad mountains in Rio de Janeiro. From its humble origins as a small fishing village, the "Princess of the Sea" is now a leisure seeker's paradise, bursting with restaurants, nightclubs, bars and hotels, and emits a lively, effervescent energy, perfect for the social traveller. To learn its history, visit Forte de Copacabana, a fort and museum that traces the early days of the Portuguese colony through to the mid-19th century. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to The Eva Klabin Foundation (Casa Museu Eva Klabin), a historical home of famous art and antique collector Eva Klabin that houses over 1000 art pieces from all over the world. A visit to Copacabana is incomplete without the world-famous Copacabana Beach, a 4-kilometre stretch of golden sand dotted with brightly-coloured umbrellas, bars and a popular playground for watersports, football, volleyball, or simply lazing in the sun.
Brazil’s second-largest city and one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations, Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain and the massive, majestic statue of Christ atop the Corcavado peak. The highlight of Rio’s social calendar is Carnaval, in the weeks leading up to Lent, when the city becomes a riot of colour, music and festivities, with thousands of costumed revellers parading through the street in what the locals call the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.
Situated in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro, Angra dos Reis encompasses 365 small picturesque islands and it is also the name of the town which serves as an excellent jumping off point for visitors wishing to explore the beautiful island of Ilha Grande. Renowned for its natural beauty and pristine beaches, the area boasts over 2000 magnificent beaches lapped by impossibly blue crystalline waters. Visitors flock here to immerse themselves in this picture-perfect beach paradise, explore adventure trails, discover waterfalls and view the mansions of the rich and famous dotting private islands. Other popular activities include: swimming, snorkelling, diving, boating, and lazing on idyllic beaches.
Located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, this tropical island is a paradise of dense rainforests, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Historically, it served as a hideout for pirates and later as a leper colony. The island is part of the Ilha Grande State Park, a protected area teeming with wildlife and exotic plant species. This pristine jungle shelters some of the largest remaining populations of endangered species such as the brown howler monkey, the red-browed Amazon parrot, the maned sloth and the broad-snouted caiman. Visitors can explore the vibrant ecosystem through hiking trails that lead to secluded beaches like Lopes Mendes, famous for its white sand and perfect surf. Travellers can pick and choose their beach for the day; enjoy snorkelling in bays rich with marine life, or cruise the picturesque coastline by boat.
