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.

Armação dos Búzios, often referred to as just Búzios, is a resort town and a municipality located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In 2012, its population consisted of 23,463 inhabitants and its area of 69 km². Today, Búzios is a popular getaway from the city and a worldwide tourist site, especially among Brazilians and Argentinians.

In the early 1900s Búzios was an almost unknown village of fishermen. It remained as such until 1964, when the French actress Brigitte Bardot visited Búzios, since then Búzios became popular with the Carioca’s high society, who wanted to escape from the chaotic city life of Rio de Janeiro and enjoy over 23 beaches that the peninsula offers. The city grew to be an international tourist destination.

Today, the peninsula is a travelling site that offers calmness, direct contact with nature and scenic views. The west coast beaches offer calm, clear waters while the east coast ones, facing the open sea, are more wild and draw surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Azeda, Ferradura, João Fernandes and Armação are amongst the most popular beaches in town. At night, Rua das Pedras, Buzios' main street, offers its visitors an active nightlife and a great variety of shopping and restaurants.