Arraial do Cabo

Arraial do Cabo is famous for its paradisiacal beaches and incredibly transparent, turquoise waters. The unique geographical location causes an oceanic phenomenon called upwelling, where cold, nutrient-rich water from the deep rises to the surface. This creates enormous marine biodiversity and makes the town one of the very best scuba diving and snorkeling areas in all of Brazil. Visitors flock to iconic beaches such as Praia do Farol, which is only accessible by boat, or the Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia with its famous long wooden staircase. Boat tours are an absolute must-do to observe the hidden coves, the Blue Grotto, and the dolphins and sea turtles that frequently swim by. The traditional fishing culture is still deeply rooted in this small coastal town. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the fresh catches of the local fishermen; fried squid and grilled fish dishes are ubiquitous. Arraial do Cabo is located just 40 minutes from Cabo Frio and a solid two and a half hours from Rio de Janeiro by car. The best time to visit is during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October, allowing you to enjoy crystal-clear waters without the massive summer crowds.

Nearby cities

Rio de Janeiro

An iconic coastal city famous for its Carnival, Copacabana beach, and Christ the Redeemer statue.

Nova Iguaçu

A highly populated city in the Baixada Fluminense region in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro.

Duque de Caxias

One of the largest industrial and commercial centers in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Campos dos Goytacazes

The largest city by area in the state of Rio de Janeiro, famous for its rich oil and sugarcane production.

São João de Meriti

Often referred to as the 'Anthill of the Americas', it is one of the most densely populated cities in South America.

Belford Roxo

A densely populated city in the Baixada Fluminense, historically known as an important water source for the region.

Niterói

The twin city of Rio de Janeiro on the other side of Guanabara Bay, known for high quality of life and spectacular views.

Cabo Frio

Cabo Frio is famous for its remarkably fine white sand and crystal-clear waters.

Angra dos Reis

Angra dos Reis is the gateway to a fascinating archipelago of hundreds of islands.

Teresópolis

Teresópolis is a mountain city named after Empress Teresa Cristina.

Buzios

Armação dos Búzios is a popular resort town located on a scenic peninsula in Brazil.

Macaé

Known globally as the 'Oil Capital' of Brazil, this coastal city serves the entire Campos Basin.

São Gonçalo

A highly populated city in the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area with growing industrial importance.

Petrópolis

The historic summer residence of the Brazilian emperors in the mountains of Rio de Janeiro.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a pristine, car-free tropical island known for its dense rainforests and gorgeous beaches.

History & landmarks

Vassouras

Historical city known as the "City of the Barons," reflecting Brazil's 19th-century coffee wealth.

Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro

One of Brazil's most beautiful opera houses, built in an eclectic style near the center of Rio.

Carioca Aqueduct (Arcos da Lapa)

A massive historic colonial-style aqueduct that now serves as a tramway bridge in the Lapa neighborhood.

Museum of Tomorrow

The Museum of Tomorrow is a futuristic science museum in Rio de Janeiro, designed by Santiago Calatrava and focused on sustainability and…

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is an iconic Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ atop Mount Corcovado, overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Maracanã Stadium

The Maracanã Stadium is one of the most famous football stadiums in the world, located in Rio de Janeiro and known for hosting historic m…

Quitandinha Palace

A huge former luxury hotel and casino built in a Norman-French style in the mountain city of Petrópolis.

More places

Poço das Antas Biological Reserve

One of the most important reserves for the protection of the highly endangered golden lion tamarin.

Macaé Oil Base

The operational base for offshore oil exploration in the Campos Basin, driving the Brazilian petroleum economy.

Sugarloaf Mountain

A prominent granite peak at the mouth of Guanabara Bay, one of Rio's landmarks.

Catete Palace

The former presidential palace of Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, now serving as the Museum of the Republic.

Copacabana Fort

Forte de Copacabana is a coastal fort at the southern end of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.

Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading

A stunning historic library in Rio de Janeiro that houses the largest collection of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal.

Valongo Wharf

A historic wharf in Rio de Janeiro that was the main arrival point for African slaves in the 19th century.

Port of Rio de Janeiro

The Port of Rio de Janeiro is historically and economically significant for regional trade.