looking out at the ocean and the bay from the many urban beaches of rio de janeiro it is difficult to miss the many islands located in varying distances off the city's coastline. sitting right in front of ipanema beach are the ilhas cagarras (cagarras islands), the most famous of the two groups of oceanic islands in rio de janeiro.

rivaled by the other group of islands, called ilhas tijuca (tijuca islands), both arquipélagos  are a must-visit for nature lovers in rio. not only are there a variety of activities on offer, but many of the islands are in close proximity to copacabana and ipanema, making them easily accessible. outdoor sports enthusiasts will enjoy the tijuca islands, since access is unrestricted and lots of leisure activities can be undertaken there.