This Remote Brazilian Island Is About to Become the Next Big Travel Destination-Here's Why

"For years, limited flights, visitor caps, and steep environmental fees kept Fernando de Noronha notoriously difficult to access, especially for international travelers. This kept the remote Brazilian archipelago wild and rugged, its volcanic cliffs and crystalline waters luring mostly domestic travelers in search of Brazil's most pristine beaches. But now a new direct LATAM flight from São Paulo, Brazil's main travel hub, makes it easier for foreign visitors to fly in."

"Ranked among the most beautiful places in the world, it's tough to pinpoint why, exactly, Fernando de Noronha has remained off the tourist radar. A look at its complex history offers a hint: Claimed by the Portuguese in the early 1500s, it was later fought over for its strategic location in the South Atlantic, turned into a prison colony in the 18th century, and used as a U.S. air base during World War II."

Limited flights, visitor caps, and environmental fees historically restricted access to Fernando de Noronha, preserving its wild volcanic cliffs, crystalline waters, and pristine beaches for mostly domestic travelers. A new direct LATAM flight from São Paulo and a major airport renovation now increase capacity and make the archipelago more reachable for foreign visitors. The islands have a layered history of Portuguese claims, strategic conflicts, a prison colony period, and use as a U.S. air base during World War II. Most of the archipelago became a Marine National Park in 1988, instituting strict visitor limits and conservation fees. The islands remain a living sanctuary for green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and other protected species, even as exclusive resorts and high-profile celebrations attract visitors.

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