Tourist Guide to Salvador, Bahia, Northeastern Brazil and Brazil

Pernambuco, located in the northeastern region of Brazil, is a state rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. It offers a variety of attractions ranging from pristine beaches and historic cities to vibrant festivals and unique cultural experiences.

Pernambuco has history in its monuments, an extraordinarily rich culture and magnificent scenery, like Olida and Fernando de Noronha.

From the coast to the hinterland, Pernambuco is all beauty.

It is the right destination for those seeking the best of the Northeast’s natural riches, with an extensive and appreciated coastline of warm, crystal-clear waters.

The inviting scenery of paradisiacal beaches such as Tamandaré and Porto de Galinhas are just a few of the countless attractions that also stand out in terms of the magnitude and historical importance of its cultural traditions, such as the carnival and June festivities.

The state’s main tourist attraction is its 187 kilometres of coastline, including beaches and cliffs, urban areas and practically untouched places.

Not to mention the beautiful archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, frequented by Brazilians and foreigners at all times of the year.

Pernambuco has one of the oldest churches in Brazil, located in the municipality of Igarassu, in the Metropolitan Region of Recife.

The church dedicated to São Cosme e Damião, which dates back to 1535, is part of a Historic Centre with 396 m² listed by IPHAN.

It is one of the oldest and best preserved architectural, civil and religious complexes in the state.

Still in the Metropolitan Region of Recife, the attractions are numerous.

Recife Antigo, the most traditional neighbourhood in the capital of Pernambuco, a cultural and entertainment hub, is a must-see for tourists.

There are bars, restaurants, nightclubs, a craft market, as well as the city’s ground zero and the first synagogue in the Americas, the Kahal Zur Israel, built in 1637 by Jews who came from Amsterdam to live in Recife.

The state capital also stands out for its pioneering cinematography and for being the cradle of creative and entrepreneurial talent, and every year the city of Recife becomes the stage for national cinema.

Olinda’s Historic Site is a separate attraction for those with a thirst for culture. One of the most important architectural ensembles in the country, Olinda has been awarded the title of World Cultural Heritage by Unesco and the first Brazilian capital of culture.

The old houses and charming hillsides add to the charm of the city, which is also the scene of one of Brazil’s most popular festivals: Carnival.

Agreste Pernambuco is an extreme sports paradise.

The town of Bonito in Pernambuco, with eight waterfalls ranging from 2 to 30 metres high, offers adventurers breathtaking trails, tree climbing, trekking and rappelling.

Formed by the waters of the Verdinho River and the Águas Vermelhas stream, Bonito’s waterfalls make up one of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.

Also in Pernambuco’s agreste region, one of the attractions is the climate.

The town of Gravatá, 80 km from Recife, is at an altitude of 447 metres.

In June and July, the low temperatures, the activities that characterise country life and the local cuisine attract thousands of visitors.

In the higher-altitude towns on the so-called Borborema Plateau, the cold has inspired cultural events such as the Garanhuns Winter Festival.

The town, 230 kilometres from Recife, has hosted one of the state’s biggest music festivals for over twenty years.

The state’s hinterland also has a distinctive climate.

At an altitude of 1,004 metres is the town of Triunfo, the highest in Pernambuco, where every year the Student Festival takes place, with theatre and dance groups, and the Film Festival, at the Cine Teatro Guarany, a heritage-listed building.

Pernambuco also has the Caruaru Fair, the largest open-air fair in the world, considered an intangible heritage of Brazil by IPHAN; the New Jerusalem Theatre, the largest open-air theatre in the world where the Passion of Christ is staged every year; the Serra do Catimbau National Park, between the Agreste and the Sertão of Pernambuco, formed by a complex of mountains, valleys and sedimentary rocks, spread over 90,000 hectares, which impresses with its grandeur and primitivism; the Serra Negra, in Bezerros, situated at an altitude of 960 metres with a temperature of up to 9º C, surrounded by an ecological reserve, which makes its beauty a picture postcard setting; the São Francisco Valley, with its dozens of wineries, the ideal place for lovers of good wine.

Top tourist destinations and activities in Pernambuco

1. Recife

1. Boa Viagem Beach

• Description: One of the most famous urban beaches in Brazil, known for its clear waters and vibrant beach culture.
• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach sports, and enjoying local cuisine at beachside kiosks.

2. Recife Antigo (Old Recife)

The historic district of Recife, featuring colonial architecture, cultural centers, and lively nightlife.

Key Sites:

• Rua do Bom Jesus: Known for its colorful buildings and the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, the first synagogue in the Americas.
• Paço do Frevo: A cultural center dedicated to the traditional dance and music of frevo.
• Marco Zero Square: The symbolic center of the city, surrounded by important cultural landmarks.

3. Instituto Ricardo Brennand

• Description: A cultural institution housing a vast collection of artworks, historical artifacts, and weapons.
• Activities: Exploring the museum, admiring the art collections, and walking through the beautiful gardens.

4. Casa da Cultura

• Description: A former prison turned cultural center, offering local crafts and cultural exhibitions.
• Activities: Shopping for local handicrafts, learning about the history of the building, and enjoying cultural events.

2. Olinda

1. Historic Center of Olinda

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Olinda is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene.

Key Sites

• Alto da Sé: Offers stunning views of Olinda and Recife, as well as the historic Sé Church.
• São Bento Monastery: Known for its baroque architecture and beautiful interiors.
• Colorful Streets: Wander through the charming, narrow streets lined with colorful houses and art studios.

2. Olinda Carnival

• Description: One of the most famous carnivals in Brazil, featuring traditional music, dance, and costumes.
• Activities: Participating in street parades, dancing to frevo and maracatu, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

3. Porto de Galinhas

1. Porto de Galinhas Beach

• Description: A popular beach destination known for its crystal-clear waters, natural pools, and vibrant marine life.
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, diving, and taking boat tours to explore the natural pools.

2. Muro Alto Beach

• Description: Known for its calm waters protected by a natural reef barrier.
• Activities: Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the tranquil waters.

Maracaípe Beach

• Description: A favorite spot for surfers due to its strong waves.
• Activities: Surfing, kitesurfing, and enjoying beachside bars and restaurants.

4. Fernando de Noronha Archipelago

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning beaches, rich marine life, and excellent diving spots.

Key Sites:

• Baía do Sancho: Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world.
• Baía dos Porcos: Known for its beautiful views and snorkeling opportunities.
• Diving Sites: Famous for clear waters and diverse marine life, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

5. Caruaru

1. Caruaru Fair

• Description: One of the largest open-air markets in Brazil, known for its wide variety of goods and vibrant atmosphere.
• Activities: Shopping for crafts, local foods, and traditional items.

2. São João Festival

• Description: One of the most important São João (St. John’s) festivals in Brazil, featuring traditional music, dance, and cultural events.
• Activities: Enjoying forró music, dancing quadrilha, and tasting regional foods.

6. Garanhuns

1. Festival de Inverno de Garanhuns

• Description: An annual winter festival featuring a diverse program of music, theater, dance, and art.
• Activities: Attending concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

2. Magano Hill

• Description: The highest point in Garanhuns, offering panoramic views of the region.
• Activities: Hiking, photography, and enjoying the scenic views.

Tips for Tourists

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pernambuco varies depending on the destination. Coastal areas like Recife and Porto de Galinhas are ideal year-round, while festivals like Olinda Carnival and São João in Caruaru have specific dates.
• Transportation: Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is convenient for exploring different regions. Public transportation is also available in major cities.
• Accommodation: There is a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels and pousadas.

Final Thoughts

Pernambuco offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. From the historic streets of Olinda and Recife to the pristine beaches of Porto de Galinhas and Fernando de Noronha, there is something for everyone.

With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and natural beauty, Pernambuco is a destination that promises memorable experiences and a deep connection to Brazilian culture.