Visiting Natal
Natal sits in the state of Rio Grande do Norte on the northeastern corner of the South American continent. Local lore says it was founded on December 25, 1599, landing on Christmas Day and getting its name from the holiday. The Three Wise Men Fortress, built in 1598 by Portuguese settlers, is the city's oldest structure and ranks among the oldest buildings in Brazil. The star-shaped fort is open to visitors and offers sweeping views of the city and the Potengi River as it empties into the ocean.
The Dunes of Natal
You cannot miss it while walking around the streets of Natal: the Dunes Park is a massive urban nature reserve spanning nearly 1200 hectares, open for tours on foot or by buggy with a guide. A bit further south at the end of Ponta Negra beach, the Morro do Careca dune rises 107 metres high and appears to drop straight into the ocean. The area is officially recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
If you enjoy dune landscapes, head up to Genipabu about twenty kilometres north of the city. You will need a guide to access the area here too. This vast natural zone shifts between lagoons and massive sand dunes where you can slide down on a simple board during a session of sandboarding.
The Extraordinary Beaches of the Brazilian Coast
A Brazilian coast means beaches, and not just any beaches. Around Natal you will find some of the finest stretches of sand in Brazil, backed by reliable sunshine year-round. Ponta Negra Beach runs right along Natal and serves as the busiest and most lively spot in the area. It is ideal if you want easy access to amenities or plan to try out kitesurfing or windsurfing. Other family-friendly beaches nearby include Tabatinga Beach and Redinha Beach, which offers views of Natal across the water.
To see the most striking coastal scenery to both the north and south, make the trip out to Maracajaú Beach or Pipa Beach, both packed with reefs, coral formations, and marine life. Think Caribbean water clarity paired with a Brazilian coastal energy.
Finally, south of Natal, stop by Pirangi Beach, a prime spot for water sports. Along its shores stands the largest cashew tree in the world. Spanning a circumference of 500 metres, the giant tree yields an average of 70,000 cashews every year.
When to Go
Temperatures stay warm year-round in Natal, making it a reliable warm-weather escape at any time. Keep in mind that April tends to be quite rainy.
How to Get There
An international airport serves Natal and the surrounding region. Direct flights are available from Lisbon.
Coming to Natal means always finding great scenery, beaches, and sunshine. It is always beautiful here. The food is also superb. A good place to travel with family, friends, or as a couple.