This is an environment extraordinarily rich in life and varied in its landscapes, with mangroves and barrier reefs. It is a breeding ground for some of the most spectacular marine species on the planet, such as the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), the gigantic sea mammal with enormous fins that enable it to leap out just above the surface of the water.
Because of its love of putting on a show for its public – smashing the surface of the water with its fins and emitting its highly varied and melodic song – it is one of the most beautiful marine animals to watch.
These extremely lively waters are also home to another friendly and placid mammal, the Manatee (Trichecus manatus). This is an herbivore with plentiful cheeks and long whiskers that generally inhabits shallow waters, grazing on aquatic plants and occasionally algae.
There are also various species of sea turtle including the Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) and the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta).


Costa Cruises navigates these wonderful waters with cruises of Brazil, Chile, Uruguay and Argentina, going as far as the Tierra del Fuego.