Ilhas Cagarras, Protected archipelago 5 km from Ipanema, Brazil.
Ilhas Cagarras is a protected archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, about 3 miles (5 km) off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, made up of five islands and two small rock formations. The islands rise to different heights and form a clear outline that is easily visible from the city's beaches.
Maps from the 18th century already recorded the islands under their current name, which came from the large seabird colonies that once nested there. That name has stayed in use ever since and still reflects what once defined the place.
Fishing boats from Copacabana have worked these waters for generations and are still a common sight around the islands today. This long-standing connection to the local fishing community shapes how people relate to this stretch of ocean.
The islands are only reachable by boat, and access to certain areas may be restricted depending on the season. It is worth checking current conditions before heading out, since some zones are set aside for diving, snorkeling, or kayaking.
During warmer months, cold water rises from the ocean floor and creates conditions that draw a wide range of sea creatures rarely found along the city's coast. This makes the area one of the few spots near Rio de Janeiro where such underwater variety is possible.
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