the capital city and chief port of Argentina, in the eastern central part of the country, on the Plata River; population 3,042,600 (est. 2008).

Rio de Janeiro is the second-most populous municipality in Brazil and the sixth-most populous in the Americas. The metropolis is anchor to the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area, the second-most populous metropolitan area in Brazil and sixth-most populous in the Americas. Rio de Janeiro is the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's third-most populous state. Part of the city has been designated as a World Heritage Site, named "Rio de Janeiro: CariocaLandscapes between the Mountain and the Sea", by UNESCO on 1 July 2012 as a Cultural Landscape.

Founded in 1565 by the Portuguese, the city was initially the seat of the Captaincy of Rio de Janeiro, a domain of the Portuguese Empire. Later, in 1763, it became the capital of the State of Brazil, a state of the Portuguese Empire. In 1808, when the Portuguese Royal Court transferred itself from Portugal to Brazil, Rio de Janeiro became the chosen seat of the court of Queen Maria I of Portugal, who subsequently, in 1815, under the leadership of her son, the Prince Regent, and future King João VI of Portugal, raised Brazil to the dignity of a kingdom, within the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil, and Algarves. Rio stayed the capital of the pluricontinental Lusitanian monarchy until 1822, when the War of Brazilian Independence began. This is one of the few instances in history that the capital of a colonising country officially shifted to a city in one of its colonies. Rio de Janeiro subsequently served as the capital of the independent monarchy, the Empire of Brazil, until 1889, and then the capital of a republican Brazil until 1960 when the capital was transferred to Brasília.

Hidden among emerald waves off the coast of Brazil, Ilha Grande captivates with untouched nature and a true spirit of adventure. This island in the state of Rio de Janeiro once served as a prison and leper colony, but today it’s a perfect escape from the hustle of civilization. There are no cars here—only trails winding through the jungle, leading to white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and waterfalls hidden deep in the forest.

Travelers can explore over 100 beaches, including the famous Lopes Mendes — considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Boat trips to abandoned prisons, diving among shipwrecks, and hiking through Atlantic rainforest offer endless opportunities for discovery. Ilha Grande is not just a resort, but a living museum of nature and history where each step reveals something new.

Ilhabela — A Brazilian Paradise for Nature and Adventure Enthusiasts

Ilhabela is a picturesque archipelago and municipality in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, comprising the main island and several smaller ones. The name translates from Portuguese as "beautiful island," which it truly embodies. Over 80% of the island's territory is protected within the Ilhabela State Park, featuring dense tropical forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for sailors, divers, and those seeking solitude away from urban noise.​

Ilhabela is renowned not only for its golden sandy beaches and clear waters but also for the unique opportunity to observe whales during their migration. The city frequently hosts sailing regattas, including international competitions. Tourists can explore colonial-era buildings and enjoy the ambiance of seaside restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes. Ilhabela combines pristine nature, active recreation, and a relaxed pace of life, making it an ideal destination for travel at any time of the year.

Skyscrapers glistening against the Atlantic Ocean give Balneário Camboriú the reputation of being the “Brazilian Dubai.” This lively coastal resort in the state of Santa Catarina offers the perfect blend of urban architecture, golden beaches, and a joyful atmosphere that attracts both local and international travelers. With the tallest skyscraper in Latin America (One Tower, 290 meters) and a scenic cable car above the jungle, the city impresses with its fusion of nature and innovation.

Along the Avenida Atlântica waterfront, you'll find restaurants, nightclubs, and boutiques, while just minutes away lie untouched nature and hidden coves. Balneário Camboriú is especially popular among families and young travelers thanks to the Unipraias Park, which connects the city with Laranjeiras Beach via a cable car ride over the tropical forest. This city is a gem for those seeking an active, stylish, yet relaxing getaway.
 

Punta del Este — Uruguay’s Premier Resort on the Atlantic Coast

Punta del Este is one of South America’s most renowned resort cities, located on Uruguay’s southern coast where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Río de la Plata estuary. The city is known for its unique contrasts—on one side, upscale neighborhoods with modern skyscrapers, yachts, and gourmet restaurants, and on the other, tranquil sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and surf-friendly waves. It’s often dubbed the “Monaco of South America” for its luxurious infrastructure and popularity among international celebrities.

Beyond the beaches, Punta del Este offers both cultural and natural attractions: the iconic “La Mano” sculpture, the Ralli Museum of contemporary art, and nearby islands home to sea lions. Visitors can explore the bohemian district of La Barra or enjoy sunset views by the Punta del Este lighthouse. The city comes alive during the summer season (December to February), when tourists from around the globe arrive in search of sunshine, comfort, and vibrant nightlife.

the capital city and chief port of Argentina, in the eastern central part of the country, on the Plata River; population 3,042,600 (est. 2008).