Ilha do Governador, Residential island in Guanabara Bay, Brazil
Description
Ilha do Governador covers 42 square kilometers in Guanabara Bay, making it the largest island in Rio de Janeiro's bay system. It divides into fourteen neighborhoods that range from residential areas to mixed settlements and connects to the mainland through bridges.
History
The island took its name in the 16th century when a colonial administrator built a country estate here. Over the following centuries it grew into a populated area that later underwent major transformation with the construction of the international airport.
Culture
The name refers to a colonial administrator who built a residence here in the 16th century. Today the island hosts a mix of middle-class residential neighborhoods and lively districts such as Morro do Dendê, where daily life and local traditions shape the street scene.
Practical
The international airport grounds occupy roughly one-third of the island and influence traffic patterns in certain areas. The remaining residential neighborhoods can be explored on foot or by local buses, with coastal sections offering a quieter feel.
Did you know?
Indigenous peoples called the area Paranapuã, which means sea branch in the old Tupi language. This original designation refers to the geographic location amid the waters of Guanabara Bay, which surround the landmass on all sides.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Ilha do Governador).
Estádio Luso-Brasileiro
533 mParish Church of Our Lady of Help
4.3 kmPraia de São Bento
2.4 kmIgreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
1.7 kmMorro do Engenho Velho
1.3 km
Cais dos Pescadores, Píer da Praia de São Bento
2.5 kmPraia da Ribeira
4.9 kmPraia das Flecheiras
4.3 kmPraia dos Gaegos
2 kmAvião
1.6 kmPraia Grande
4.2 kmBica da Ânfora da Praia da Bica
2.2 kmPraia do Jequiá
5.4 kmPraia do Pôrto Santo
4.3 kmMorro do Barão
3.6 kmPraia Engenhoca
5.4 kmChafariz Marco da Ilha do Governador
106 mFonte da Mãe d’Água ou Sereia
1.7 kmMarco Maçônico
3.9 kmMorro do Matoso
3.5 kmPraia das Pelônias
3.7 kmTorreão de Pedra
3.2 kmPraia do Golfinho
3.6 kmMorro dos Bancários
3.1 kmPraia da Moça
6.1 kmPraia de Cocotá
3.4 kmPraia da Rosa
2.8 kmPraia da Bica
2.1 km
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes