Things To Do
in Natal
Natal is a city located in northeastern Brazil, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. The city is famous for its huge sand dunes, where visitors can enjoy activities such as dune buggy rides or sandboarding. Natal is also home to one of the largest cashew trees in the world, known as Pirangi Cashew Tree.
The city's year-round warm weather and festive atmosphere make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Ponta Negra Beach, enjoying the sun and the sound of the waves. Don't forget to try the famous regional breakfast at a local café.
After lunch, head to Morro do Careca where you can hike up for stunning views or simply relax on the beach. Engage in water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding if you're feeling adventurous.
As the sun sets, explore the vibrant nightlife at the beachfront bars. Savor a refreshing caipirinha while listening to music and socializing with locals.
Visit the Forte dos Reis Magos, a historic fort that offers insight into Natal's colonial past. Take time to explore the beautiful architecture and scenic views of the river.
Have lunch in the historic center and then stroll through the Art Museum of Rio Grande do Norte. Appreciate local art and exhibitions that highlight the region's cultural heritage.
Cap off the day with a dining experience at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse. Enjoy a variety of meats and sides in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches, such as Ponta Negra and Genipabu.
- Favorable climate with warm temperatures year-round.
- Rich cultural heritage with festivals and local cuisine.
- Proximity to natural attractions like dunes and the Natal Ecológico Park.
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
- High humidity levels can be uncomfortable for some.
- Limited public transport options in some areas.
- Crime rates can be a concern in certain neighborhoods.
- Tourist infrastructure can be underdeveloped in less visited areas.
- Occasional risk of tropical storms and flooding.
Best Activities in Natal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the sandy beach, swim in the warm waters, and enjoy various water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
Explore the famous sand dunes by buggy or camel ride, and enjoy activities like sandboarding and swimming in the freshwater lagoons.
Visit this historic fort for a cultural experience and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Natal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Natal
Visit one of these nice places.
Praia de Ponta Negra offers a stunning view of the city and the iconic Morro do Careca, a natural sand dune that is a popular natural attraction.
This historic fortress provides panoramic views of the coastline and the meeting of the Potengi River with the Atlantic Ocean.
The largest urban park in Natal, it offers a beautiful natural setting with sand dunes and native flora, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Natal
Natal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful fish stew cooked in coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and coriander. Best enjoyed at popular restaurants like Camarões Potiguar and Farofa D'água.
Must-Try!
A traditional crepe made from cassava flour and filled with various sweet or savory fillings such as cheese, coconut, or meat. You can find tapioca vendors at local markets and beachfront stalls.
A spicy crab soup seasoned with peppers and served with traditional sides like farofa and pirão. Look for this dish at seaside eateries along the coast.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Natal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a great place to sample local street food specialties like acarajé (fried bean and shrimp dumplings), tapioca, and refreshing açai bowls.
Explore this vibrant beachfront market for an array of grilled seafood, freshly squeezed fruit juices, and regional snacks like paçoca (ground peanut candy).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Natal, Brazil, it is important to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. It is also customary to address people using their titles and last names as a sign of respect.
Respect for personal space is valued in Natal, Brazil. It is important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others, and touching or standing too close may be considered inappropriate.
In Natal, punctuality is not as strict as in some other cultures, but it is still important to show respect for other people's time. Arriving a little later than scheduled is generally acceptable, but being excessively late may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Natal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Natal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Natal, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and hotels. Typically, a 10% service charge is included in the bill, but leaving an additional tip for exceptional service is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Natal, Brazil, especially in tourist areas. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, as smaller establishments and vendors may prefer cash payments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Natal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Natal is during the summer when you can enjoy the warm weather and experience vibrant festivals and events. This is also the peak tourist season with higher accommodation rates.
Autumn is a great time to visit Natal as the weather is still warm, and there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Natal's winter season offers comfortable temperatures and is a good time for budget travelers due to lower accommodation rates. It's also the time for whale watching as humpback whales migrate along the coast.
Spring marks the beginning of the rainy season in Natal, but it's also a time when the countryside is lush and green. It's a good time for nature enthusiasts and birdwatching.
Natal at Night
Hiking in Natal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located near Natal, featuring stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views, this area offers various hiking trails that allow adventurers to experience the natural beauty of Brazil.
Pipa Beach has several trails along cliffs and coastal landscapes, providing scenic views of the ocean and opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
Located a bit further from Natal, this region offers challenging hiking routes with rewarding panoramic views, perfect for experienced hikers.
This urban park in Natal features a variety of trails through native vegetation and dunes, making it a great option for a short hike while enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Natal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Natal by plane.
The main international airport serving Natal, Brazil.
An international airport located in São Gonçalo do Amarante, close to Natal.
Located in Curitiba, this airport is one of the larger international airports in the southern region of Brazil.
Located in Salvador, this is a major international airport serving the Bahia state.
Located in Fortaleza, this airport serves as an important hub for international flights to northeastern Brazil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of European descent, primarily descendants of Portuguese colonizers.
Mixed-race individuals, often a combination of European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
Individuals of African descent, including both descendants of enslaved Africans and recent immigrants.
People belonging to the various Indigenous tribes and communities in Brazil.
Individuals of Asian descent, including those with Japanese, Chinese, and other Asian origins.
The Soul of Natal
Discover the essence of Natal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Natal, with passionate supporters following local clubs such as América FC and ABC FC.
Beach volleyball is particularly popular due to Natal's beautiful coastal beaches, making it a favored sport among locals and tourists alike.
Natal is known for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting both local surfers and international visitors.
Handball has gained popularity in schools and clubs, with increasingly organized competitions being held in the region.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local teams and leagues contributing to the sports culture in Natal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Natal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Natal offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like stuffed tapioca, grilled vegetable platters, and tropical fruit salads.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine heavily features cassava, which is naturally gluten-free, it's essential for individuals with gluten intolerance to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Natal with these cultural adventures.
