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’.
Set along Brazil's Costa Verde in Rio de Janeiro state, Angra dos Reis is a coastal town and popular seaside destination known for its lush, mountainous scenery and hundreds of offshore islands. The region's sheltered bays and clear waters make it particularly appealing for boat trips, swimming, snorkelling and diving, with Ilha Grande among its most famous nearby attractions. Travellers can explore secluded beaches and islands by boat, hike through the Atlantic Forest, or discover historic churches, convents and colonial buildings in the town centre. The dramatic meeting of forested mountains, turquoise water and scattered islands gives Angra dos Reis its distinctive character. It is well suited to travellers seeking a combination of beach experiences, nature and easy access to the spectacular landscapes of Brazil's Costa Verde.
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.
