Rio Grande do Norte

Rio Grande do Norte has a rich culture and history, as well as sunny beaches, dunes and cliffs, and the seridó, a unique landscape with cave inscriptions.

Strong winds, sunshine, dunes, beaches, cliffs and the friendliness of the people of Rio Grande do Norte accompany visitors all along the coast.

But beware: there is much, much to be explored outside of the buggy routes that cut up and down the sands and dunes, taking tourists to enjoy the best of the surroundings of Natal.

Natal’s Via Costeira, lined with hotels, the Morro do Careca, Ponta Negra Beach, the Forte dos Reis Magos and a charming historic centre are there to continue seducing.

Being in Natal in Rio Grande do Norte opens up the possibility of taking a day trip to places like the parrachos de Maracajaú, as the coral reef formations a few kilometres off the coast are called.

Hiring a buggy to go adventuring in the dunes of Genipabu is a classic.

As is heading to Praia de Pipa, with its rivers and lagoons, the spectacular view from the cliffs of Praia do Amor, not to mention dolphin watching on boat trips.

Expect a lot of hustle and bustle in Pipa in Rio Grande do Norte, especially at night on Avenida Baía dos Golfinhos.

If peace and quiet is your thing, start travelling a little further away from the capital. Going up 100 kilometres to where the map of Brazil makes a left turn, you’ll find São Miguel do Gostoso. The rustic and simple atmosphere remains, even with the appearance of inns and restaurants in the last decade.

The streets are still dirt and, as far as the eye can see, there are beautiful beaches with coconut palms, palm trees and soft sand.

The most beautiful in the region is Tourinhos, with dunes and rock formations.

Ponta do Santo Cristo, with its strong winds, is a firm favourite with kitesurfers and windsurfers.

Continuing 90 kilometres to the left of the Rio Grande do Norte map is another mirage, Galinhos, an even smaller village with just over 2,000 inhabitants.

It’s not easy to reach by boat or 4×4 vehicle, which guarantees isolation and calm to enjoy the beautiful green sea. The streets are sandy and transport is by horse-drawn carriage.

Buggies leave from São Miguel do Gostoso and take you to the top of the dunes, canoe trips along the Aratuá River and a visit to neighbouring Galos make up the package of attractions.

Rio Grande do Norte’s main tourist attractions

Main Destinations and Attractions

Natal

  • Ponta Negra Beach: One of Natal’s most famous beaches, known for its vibrant promenade, bars, restaurants and the iconic Morro do Careca, a 120 metre high sand dune.
  • Forte dos Reis Magos: This historic fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, offers an insight into Brazil’s colonial history and beautiful views of the ocean.
  • Parque das Dunas: One of Brazil’s largest urban parks, ideal for walks and picnics, with trails that pass through a preserved area of Atlantic forest.

Genipabu

  • Dunas de Genipabu: Famous for its mobile dunes, where visitors can take thrilling buggy rides, including the famous ‘esquibunda’ and ‘aerobunda’ (dune descents on boards and zip lines).
  • Lagoa de Genipabu: A peaceful place to swim and relax after the thrill of the dunes.

Pipa

  • Praia da Pipa: Known for its colourful cliffs, crystal clear waters and vibrant nightlife. It is one of the most popular destinations in the state.
  • Baia dos Golfinhos: A place where visitors can watch dolphins swimming close to the shore.
  • Chapadão de Pipa: A rock formation that offers spectacular views of the ocean.

Maracajaú

  • Parrachos de Maracajaú: Known as the ‘Brazilian Caribbean’, it is one of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Brazil, with coral reefs and a rich marine life.

São Miguel do Gostoso

  • Beaches: Known for its quiet beaches and constant winds, which make it a paradise for kitesurfers and windsurfers.
  • Rustic Environment: The town retains a rustic charm with its sandy streets and relaxed atmosphere.

Galinhos

  • Peninsula de Galinhos: A secluded and peaceful destination, accessible only by boat or 4×4 vehicle. Ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Festivals and Events

  • Carnival: One of the biggest off-season carnivals in Brazil, held in Natal, which attracts thousands of revellers from all over the country.
  • Festa de Sant’Ana: Celebrated in Caicó, it is one of the most traditional religious festivals in the state, with processions, masses and cultural events.

Gastronomy

  • Shrimp: Rio Grande do Norte is one of the largest producers of shrimp in Brazil. Dishes such as ‘camarão na moranga’ and ‘bobó de camarão’ are unmissable.
  • Carne de Sol: A local delicacy, usually served with manioc (cassava) or green beans.
  • Cottage cheese: Often grilled and served as a snack.

Practical Information

Climate

  • The state has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures all year round. The high tourist season is from December to March, when the climate is drier.

Transport

  • Natal International Airport (Governador Aluízio Alves Airport) is the main entry point for visitors. There are also well-maintained motorways linking Natal to other cities and tourist destinations in the state.

Accommodation

  • Rio Grande do Norte offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cosy pousadas and budget hostels.

Conclusion

Rio Grande do Norte is a diverse tourist destination, offering everything from thrilling adventures in the dunes of Genipabu to relaxing days on the beaches of Pipa and Maracajaú.

With a rich mix of culture, history and gastronomy, the state is a true paradise for holidaymakers.

Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, outdoor activities or an authentic cultural experience, Rio Grande do Norte has something special for you.

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