Fernando de Noronha: Beautiful, unspoiled, and worth experiencing
Fernando de Noronha is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine ecosystem. Visitor numbers are limited, but those who are fortunate enough to visit can enjoy unique beaches and warm, clear waters teeming with dolphins and sea turtles, making Noronha one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. On land, visitors can explore ecological trails such as Jardim Elizabeth, Esmeralda Coast, or Sancho Bay, and climb to the top by ascending stairs carved into the cliffs.
Fernando de Noronha can be reached by plane or boat from Recife, which is approximately 545 km away, or by plane from Natal, about 360 km away. Upon arrival, visitors must pay a small fee known as the “environmental protection fee.” Although this is an additional cost, the stunning scenery, atmosphere, and crystal-clear waters, combined with the rich marine biodiversity, make it well worth the expense.
In addition to its stunning pristine beaches, dramatic landscapes, and national marine park, Fernando de Noronha is also recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. This volcanic archipelago is home to over 3,000 local residents, but the hotels are always packed with tourists from both Brazil and abroad.
The islands have a unique administrative status in Brazil. They form a “state district” (Portuguese: distrito estadual) directly managed by the state government of Pernambuco, even though they are closer to the state of Rio Grande do Norte. The jurisdiction of this state district also includes the remote Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, located 625 km northeast of Fernando de Noronha. Seventy percent of the islands’ area was established as a national marine park in 1988.
The beaches of Fernando de Noronha are promoted for tourism and recreational diving. The most popular beaches include Baía do Sancho, Pig Bay, Dolphins Bay, Sueste Bay, and Praia do Leão. Due to the South Equatorial Current bringing warm waters from Africa to the island, diving at depths of 30 to 40 meters (98 to 131 feet) does not require a wetsuit. Underwater visibility can reach up to 50 meters (164 feet).
The island’s coastline towards the mainland features beaches in the following order: Baía do Sancho, Baía dos Porcos, Praia da Cacimba do Padre, Praia do Bode, Praia dos Americanos, Praia do Boldró, Praia da Conceição, Praia do Meio, and Praia do Cachorro. The Atlantic-facing side of the island has only three beaches: Praia do Leão, Praia do Sueste, and Praia do Atalaia. A great way to explore the island is to hike from Praia dos Americanos, passing Praia do Boldró, Praia da Conceição, Praia do Meio, and finishing the hike at Praia do Cachorro.
