Natal Travel Guide: Sun, Sand, and Endless Adventure

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Natal Brazil: A Quick Look

Hello, adventurers of this world! I’m going to tell you about an incredible destination affectionately known as the “City of the Sun”. Natal is one of the most beautiful of the capitals of the Northeast. The city is known for its tropical climate and natural beauty. The city’s wonderful landscapes are made up of beautiful beaches, dunes, and lagoons. In Natal, the sun is intense, with more than 300 sunny days a year, which is why Natal has this affectionate nickname.

Also, if you are traveling to many cities in Brazil, it is a good idea to dive into our Brazil travel guide to get a feel for the entire country.

Natal also means Christmas in Portuguese. Have you ever wanted to go to Christmas? So, you must be prepared to never want to leave. Between beaches that mix the blue of the sky with the waters of the sea, transparent lagoons, fun ski slopes, and fun buggy rides, Christmas will impress you.

Expect nothing less than beautiful beaches, tours that will remain in your memory, gastronomy, and lots of entertainment to the sound of a good forró, this is the most popular musical rhythm in the region. And if you don’t know how to dance, don’t worry. Going to Natal is a good way to get involved in dancing.

I believe that I am a very lucky person, as I have already had the opportunity to visit several places in Brazil, and now I want to share with you everything I experienced. I know many tips and curiosities that only local people know. From where to stay, to safety tips, and also when the best time to go is. So, with all this information in hand, I hope I can help you on your adventure in Natal.

What’s new in Natal? Adventure-seekers are flocking to new sandboarding and buggy experiences along Genipabu’s dunes, now curated with eco-friendly practices. It’s a mix of adrenaline and nature with sustainability in mind.

Are you excited about this destination? So, you’ll be even more excited about the super tips I’ve prepared for you to organize the best trip. Let’s go? Natal awaits you eagerly!

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Natal Brazil: Quick travel tips before you go

🛫 Airport: The main airport in Natal is “Natal International Airport – São Gonçalo do Amarante” (NAT).

🤑 Currency: The Brazilian Real is represented by the symbol R$.

🗣️ Language: Portuguese is the official language in Natal, but English is spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

🕰️ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). One hour before EST and 4 hours before PST.

💵 Cost: Natal is even more affordable if it’s in a stronger currency, such as the US dollar, euro, or yen.

🛜 Internet: Internet speed in Natal may vary if you are in more remote places and less developed beaches. However, you will find reasonably fast internet connections.

📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here. You do NOT need a visa for EU Nationals, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here.

🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, we have two associated plug types, C and N. Plug type C is the one with two round pins. Plug type N has two round pins and a larger grounding pin. Consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with these outlets during your travels.

🔋 Power Grid: It’s very good! Brazil works entirely on 127/220V and 60 Hz. In Natal, they use both voltages, so it’s always good to ask before using the electricity.

📳 SIM Card: If you have any doubts about the need for a SIM card for Brazil, the answer is YES: they are very cheap, and buying one in any country you visit is a matter of necessity, Brazil Its most common operators are, Tim, Claro, Oi, and Vivo.

🚘 Car Rentals: It can seem a bit daunting to think about renting a car in Brazil, especially when you’re traveling to another country. But it can be a great option.

Natal Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)

🍏 Food safety: The food in Natal is safe. However, as there are many seafood dishes, you need to be very careful if you have any food intolerances or allergies.

💧Water safety: You shouldn’t drink tap water, but you can use it to brush your teeth, shower, and wash your hands. I recommend that you always buy filtered water to consume during the day. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.

👷‍♀️ Daytime safety: During the day, Natal is safe for locals and visitors. However, as with any destination you go to, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety.

🦺 Nighttime safety: Using common sense wherever you go is very important. Don’t keep valuables in your pockets, stay in well-lit and busy areas, don’t walk alone at night, don’t pick up your cell phone in the street, and don’t wear jewelry or expensive objects.

👺 Avoiding scams: Make sure all your valuables are stored in a safe place. Uber or Taxi should be booked directly through the app or from where you are staying. Also, don’t leave your water or other drinks unattended.

Natal Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective

🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: The choice of the neighborhood you want to stay in will depend on the type of experience you want to have. Barreira d’Água (Family), Ponta Negra (Individual travelers and groups). Via Costeira (couples).

🎄Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: This Natal travel guide recommends that you try Carnival, Easter, Independence Day (September 7), Our Lady of Aparecida Day (October 12), and Christmas and New Year.

🍜 Local food to try: The sea and the hinterland meet at the table in Natal. Here are some dishes for you to try. Camarão ao Coco (The dish consists of fresh prawns with coconut milk, palm oil, and various spices), Fish, and seafood. Tapioca (this dish consists of a thin crepe made from cassava gum). Bolinho de Macaxeira (also known as cassava or manioc, cassava dumplings are fried and served as snacks or side dishes, Cuscuz Nordestino (a traditional dish consisting of steamed corn), Paçoca (a sweet made from crushed peanuts and sugar), Tropical fruits (such as cashew, mango, passion fruit, and pitanga)

🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): Caipiroska de Caju (this is a variation on the caipirinha, where cashew is used instead of lemon. As cashew is an abundant fruit in the region, it is used a lot, and by the way, it is wonderful – I tried it and liked it a lot). Jenipapo Liqueur (Jenipapo is a typical fruit of the Northeast. Jenipapo liqueur is sweet and tasty). Licor de Leite (made with condensed milk and cachaça, it’s a sweet and smooth drink). Meu Garoto (consists of cachaça with Jenipapo liqueur, giving it a sweet and fruity taste). Cashew wine (you can find a variation of this drink, either dry or sweet, it has a unique flavor, so you should try it). Beers (Try the local beers, such as “Nordestina” or “Itaipava”). Batidas (These drinks are fruit cocktails with cachaça and condensed milk. You’ll find flavors such as passion fruit, coconut, cashew, pineapple and many others)

🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Coconut Water, Tropical Fruit Juice, Fruit Vitamins, Cajuína (an unfermented cashew juice), Guaraná Antarctica (a popular soft drink in Brazil, made from the extract of the guaraná fruit), Caldinho de Feijão Verde (is a thick soup made with green beans, spices and pieces of meat, it may seem a bit peculiar, but it is very tasty).

🚶‍♂️Walkability: A great option! Walking through the streets of Natal is something you should do, especially in certain areas of the city. You’ll be able to see beautiful landscapes and admire Natal’s natural beauty.

🎉 Nightlife: it’s GREAT! The nightlife in Natal is lively, especially in high season. The city has plenty of options for those who like to go out at night. The city has bars, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and cultural events to suit different tastes.

😀 Friendly to Foreigners: Like many cities in Brazil, Natal is a vibrant and welcoming city. Brazilians have a reputation for their friendliness and hospitality. You’re sure to make friends in Natal and get to know the local culture even better.

🏥 Hospitals: As the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal has a relatively developed medical infrastructure, so it can meet the needs of the local population as well as visitors.

🇺🇸 English Speaking: English is spoken in hotels, tourist areas, and restaurants to welcome visitors from abroad.

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Where is Natal Brazil Located?

Natal Map 

Natal is the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte and is located in the northeastern region of Brazil. The city is located on the east coast of Brazil, on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Natal has a beautiful coastline with beaches with clear waters and white sands, which makes it very popular. Natal has a tropical climate and pleasant temperatures throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for those who love sunny days and lots of beaches, just like me.  

What State is Natal In? 

Natal is located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. The state of Rio Grande do Norte is located in the northeastern region of Brazil and its capital is Natal, the most populous city and also very important economically.

What’s the Closest Airport to Natal Brazil?

The closest airport to Natal is São Gonçalo do Amarante International Airport (NAT). It is located approximately 25 kilometers (15 mi) northwest of the center of Natal, in the town of São Gonçalo do Amarante. This is the main airport serving the Natal region and it receives both domestic and international flights. 

What is the Best Way to Get to Your Natal Hotel?

When you arrive at São Gonçalo do Amarante International Airport (NAT), there are a few means of transportation to get you to your hotel:

Taxi: When you land at Natal International Airport, you will probably find a cab rank available to take you to your hotel. If you choose this means of transportation, check the fare in advance and also make sure the meter is working.

Uber: Using an Uber is a good alternative. You can order an Uber via an app and it will take you to your hotel.

Airport Transfer: Check beforehand whether your hotel offers this type of service and how you should request it. It’s a very convenient option, as you can leave everything organized for your arrival.

Rent a car: If you want to be more flexible during your trip, a good option is to rent a car at the airport. There are many car rental companies available in the airport terminal. This makes everything easier.

How to Get Around Natal?

Ride Sharing (top choice): This is one of my favorite options, walking is one of the coolest ways to explore the city. When I visited Natal, this was the way I used the most to get around the city.

Rent a Car (top choice): If you want to explore Natal in more depth or have specific travel plans, renting a car will be a good idea. There are several car rental agencies available in the city and at Natal International Airport.

Take a Taxi: There will always be a cab available in Natal. They can be found at cab ranks, in front of streets, in hotels.

Extra Tip: Rent a bike, the city has invested in cycle paths and bike-sharing initiatives. So check availability so you can rent a bike in the area where you’re staying.

When to Go to Natal?

Natal is attractive practically all year round, as it is a city with many sunny days. The city is always warm, even in winter. So when you pack your bags, make sure you pack plenty of light clothes, as Natal promises beautiful sunny days.

Natal Brazil Summer (December to February): During the summer, Natal enjoys higher temperatures, lots of sunshine, and little rain. This is the high season in the city, so the beaches are busier, the streets are busier, and Natal is busier. 

Summer Carnival: Spending Carnival in Natal is a wonderful opportunity, even more so in a city with a tropical climate. The warm climate makes this celebration even more festive and special. So you must be prepared because during Carnival the city gets busier. This Natal travel guide advises you to book in advance for accommodation and everything you want to do during your visit to Natal so you don’t miss anything. 

Natal Brazil Fall (March to May): Fall in Natal is characterized by milder temperatures and less frequent rainfall. It’s a pleasant time to visit Natal if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, as the crowds thin out after the high season.

Natal Brazil Winter (June to August): Winter in Natal is warm compared to the more southerly regions of Brazil, but even so temperatures can be low at night. Winter is the driest season of the year, and you can take advantage of it to explore the city and its attractions.

Natal Brazil Spring (September to November): When spring arrives in Natal the temperatures gradually rise. The city becomes greener and more floral during this season, and the landscapes become more colorful.

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Where to Stay in Natal Brazil? (By Neighborhood)

There are many good places to stay in Natal, so the best choice will depend on how much you are willing to pay for accommodation and the type of trip you want to take.

Here I’ll tell you which are the best neighborhoods to stay in Natal, Praia dos Artistas (Family), Ponta Negra (Best central location for Individual travelers and groups), and Via Costeira (couples).

I’ve summarized this topic to make it easier to understand what each of these neighborhoods has to offer.

Ponta Negra (Best Central Location for Individual Travelers and Groups)

This is one of Natal’s most well-known and popular neighborhoods, it is located along the coast. Famous for its beautiful beach, which is one of Natal’s main tourist attractions. The neighborhood also offers a wide variety of bars, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and concert halls. Great for those who like to enjoy the nightlife. 

Praia dos Artistas (Family) 

This is one of Natal most traditional beaches, located in the “Areia Preta” neighborhood, on the east side of the city. It has a unique charm and is known for its tranquil atmosphere. Praia dos Artistas has a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, which makes it an ideal choice for those traveling with their family, as they can get away from the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful environment. 

Via Costeira (Couples)

This is a neighborhood I recommend for couples who want to spend a few days in Natal. Via Costeira is an area that stretches along the coast and has several high-end resorts and hotels. It’s an excellent choice for those who want stunning sea views and to make the most of Natal. 

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Best Things to Do in Natal Brazil

• Ponta Negra Beach: This is Natal’s most famous beach. With its golden sand and calm waters, you can swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. You’ll also find plenty of bars, restaurants, and water activities.
• City tour in Natal: Several tour companies offer a tour of Natal that gives you a general idea of the city and its main attractions. Accompanied by a guide, passengers on the city tour pass Natal’s sights, such as the Fortaleza dos Reis Magos, the city’s historic center, the Centro de Turismo (former prison, where Forró com Turista takes place), the Arena das Dunas stadium, and others.
•  Morro do Careca: Morro is located on Ponta Negra Beach and is an iconic sand dune with a panoramic and very beautiful view. 
• Dunes Buggy Ride: This was one of my favorite rides when I went to Natal, the buggy ride along the north coast, which involves the dune parks, such as Genipabu. It’s a very cool activity to do and very popular.
• Natal Aquarium: This is also one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The place can be visited on a buggy ride along the north coast and is home to many species of animals. This tour is done in the company of an aquarium guide, who explains the animal species, their way of life, and some curiosities.
• Parque das Dunas: You must go on this tour! The park is considered to be the largest urban park on dunes in Brazil and extends over a long stretch of the city. Tourists usually see it when crossing Via Costeira, the city’s main access road, which runs between Parque das Dunas and the sea. It’s an enchanting walk.
• Largest Cajueiro tree in the world: The Pirangi Cajueiro tree grew on the land of a fisherman who bought a piece of land in the area. And by some anomaly of nature, the cashew tree grew a LOT in an unexpected way and is now recognized as the largest cashew tree in the world. Each branch thrown into the ground generates new roots, so the tree has already produced around 70,000 kilos of fruit in its more than 100 years of history. 
• Boat trip on the Potengi River: This is a very enchanting trip, starting from the Natal Yacht Club, a very pleasant place to spend the evening in the city. In addition to the beautiful view, the place has facilities for snacks and drinks and the aforementioned boat trip. It’s a beautiful place to spend the evening, ideal for those looking for a peaceful program accompanied by beautiful scenery
• Lagoa de Arituba: This is a perfect place to relax and swim in crystal-clear waters. There are also options for renting kayaks and pedals.
• Craft Fairs: You can’t miss a stroll through the craft fairs in Natal, where you can buy local products, such as clothes, jewelry, ceramics, and souvenirs.

Regardless of the tours you choose, Natal has beautiful places that allow you to enjoy many unforgettable moments in this tropical paradise.

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Best Natal Tours

Visiting Natal is a unique experience. The city has many tourist attractions, and one of my favorites was enjoying the beautiful beaches and also trying the local cuisine.

I believe that with all the attractions there are to do, it is possible to please everyone who comes to visit this wonderful city. With this travel guide to Natal, you will find the best things to do.

💡Pro Tip: As Natal has many tours and tourist attractions to do, you should have a broad idea of the places you want to visit so you can map out your destinations in more detail. This way, you will be able to adjust your days and hours so as not to leave anything out of your plans.

💡Pro Tip: When booking tours, don’t ask just anyone on the street. It’s more reliable and safe to buy online or see if your hotel can help you. But be aware that hotels may charge a little more for this service.

Here Are My Favorite Ways to Tour Natal:

• Buggy Ride: Buggy rides through the Genipabu dunes are one of the coolest activities you can do in Natal. Skilled drivers take tourists on extreme adventures through the sand dunes, with exciting descents and passages through natural lagoon areas.
• Boat Trip on the Potengi River: Take a boat trip on the Potengi River, on this tour, you will have panoramic views of the city and the sunset. The vast majority of these tours include music and meals on board.
• Visit Forte dos Reis Magos: This tour will take you to a historic fortress that offers a fascinating insight into the history of the region and stunning landscapes of the sea and the city.
• Quad biking: For adventure lovers like me, quad biking through the dunes of Genipabu is the PERFECT way to explore the region’s unique landscape.
• Raft Ride: I recommend that you take a raft ride along Ponta Negra Beach or another beach to relax and enjoy the tropical landscape of Natal. And some raft tours include snorkeling stops.
• Visit to the Lagoons: Set aside a day to visit the region’s lagoons, such as Lagoa de Pitangui, Lagoa de Arituba, and Lagoa de Jacumã. On many of these tours, you will have the option of doing water activities, such as kayaking and pedal boating.
• Helicopter ride: If you want to have a panoramic view of Natal and the beaches from above, take a helicopter ride and you will be enchanted by the beauty.
• Parque das Dunas: This is a tour for those who like to practice outdoor activities. Take walks and trails through Parque das Dunaswhichis is the largest urban reserve of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. So it’s an opportunity to get to know the local flora and fauna.
• Kitesurfing and Windsurfing Classes: For those who enjoy water sports, in Natal, you can take kitesurfing and windsurfing classes.

Remember that it is important to check tour availability and times. Here I wanted to show you some tour options that you can do in Natal so that you can enjoy your trip in the best possible way

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Is Natal Safe for Tourists?

On my visit to Natal, I found it to be a safe city. Natal has a large number of tourists every year. However, just like anywhere you visit, you must be aware of your surroundings to ensure your trip is pleasant and without any problems.

Remember that security varies in different areas of Natal, so a good idea is to research the area in which you intend to stay and also ask the hotel staff about more specific concerns.

💡 Here, I Will Give You Some Professional Safety Tips for Each City You Travel To:

• Taking care of your belongings: Regardless of where you are traveling, be aware of taking care of your personal belongings, such as wallets, bags, watches, and smartphones. Do not leave your valuables visible in vehicles.
• Avoid going to dangerous places: You should not trust a certain area with your eyes closed just because it is touristy. So, avoid going to unknown neighborhoods because there is a danger of petty theft, for example.
• Safe transportation: Only use reliable transportation like Uber or Taxi to get around the city at night, and don’t walk in unfamiliar areas.
• Do not display valuables: Avoid displaying valuables, such as expensive jewelry, cameras, and watches, in public places as much as possible, as this may attract a lot of unwanted attention.
• Local information: Ask your hotel which places are safe and which places you should avoid that could be considered dangerous.
• Emergency information: Always have emergency phone numbers, such as police and medical services, on hand so you can call if you need anything.
• Pay attention to traffic: Traffic in Natal can be a little chaotic, so be careful when driving and crossing the streets. Always use pedestrian crossings and also respect the signage.

Therefore, all precautions to be taken when traveling are essential, regardless of the destination you choose. Natal is a safe city for tourists, however it is very important to always be aware of your surroundings and make safe decisions to ensure that your trip is peaceful and pleasant.

Stay tuned! As safety conditions may vary from time to time, always check for up-to-date safety information before starting your trip.

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?

Well, tap water is a huge NO in all of Brazil.

Tap water isn’t drinkable anywhere in our country. It is safe to use externally, but don’t drink it under any circumstances!

You will be able to safely brush your teeth and do your hygiene, but no Natal travel guide will tell you it’s okay to chug it. You’d do best by buying bottled water when needed or carrying a refillable one to take advantage of filters.

Most establishments that deal with food have a filter to make ice and drinks, so you can ask for some ‘água da casa.’ If it’s not available, then just buy a bottle.

Also, another topic every Natal travel guide touches on is how hot it can get here ALL YEAR LONG. So stay properly hydrated when you’re outside; otherwise, you can get sick and ruin your entire trip.

So Your Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:

1. If you are in an Airbnb, boil water in case there isn’t a filter. The filter is usually attached to the kitchen sink faucet.
2. At hotels, buy bottled water in the absence of filters. This can get expensive quickly, so look for grocery stores nearby to buy it cheaper.
3. Bring along or buy a reusable water bottle to refill, and because refilling is generally free, you don’t have to worry about something as simple as buying drinking water while in Natal, Brazil.

Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table: 

✅ World Nomads: Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear. 

✅ SafetyWing: This is for general travelers, frequent travelers,  and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage. 

✅ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies. 

Natal TRAVEL GUIDE

Natal Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in Natal Brazil?

Straight from the tap is a big NO.

This guide to Natal recommends that you don’t drink tap water. It’s safe for general use, so don’t risk drinking it.

You can use tap water for brushing your teeth and showering! I recommend that you buy bottled water whenever necessary.

Bottled water is sold in stores and supermarkets in Natal. Also, always pay attention to the temperature during the day, because the Brazilian sun is VERY hot, and you need to be well-hydrated at all times.

These are the steps to staying safe with healthy water: 

1. In an Airbnb, you should boil water if you don’t have bottled or filtered water.
2. If you’re in a hotel that doesn’t have filtered water, buy bottled water.
3. I recommend that you always buy bottled water. That way, you’ll have the convenience of carrying it in your bag or backpack. Plus, you’ll always be well-hydrated. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastic bottles.

What’s the Natal Weather Like?

In Natal, temperatures are warm throughout the year due to its tropical climate. So average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F) and these temperatures can always vary. 

For most of the year, temperatures are warmer, with lows around 22°C (71°F) to 24°C (75°F) and highs between 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (89°F). The hottest months of the year are from December to February when temperatures can reach higher highs.

However, it’s important to note that Natal also has its rainy and dry seasons, which can influence temperatures. During the rainy season, although temperatures remain high, the thermal sensation may change due to local humidity, for example. 

But in general, Natal is known for its sunny and warm climate throughout the year, which makes the city attractive to those who want paradisiacal beaches and outdoor activities.

Is Natal Expensive?

To say that Natal is an expensive city or not depends a lot on each person’s perspective. The costs will depend on each choice, such as activities, accommodation and food. Natal has options for different budgets, which makes it a very attractive city for visitors and locals alike.

Natal has many bars and restaurants. So you can find everything from simple local restaurants to the most sophisticated.

So, the costs in Natal will vary according to each person’s choices. But be aware if this is your destination, as costs increase in high season. So organize your budget before deciding on the details of your trip.

Is Natal Worth Visiting?

Natal is certainly a destination that will offer you a unique and memorable experience.  

Natal is well worth a visit! It’s an incredible city in northeastern Brazil, with its stunning beaches, spectacular natural landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere.

So if you like paradisiacal beaches, thrilling dune adventures, rich culture, and a relaxing atmosphere, Natal is the destination that shouldn’t be left off your list of places to visit in Brazil. 

Natal is a place that has a unique combination of natural beauty, fun, and culture, all of which will give you an unforgettable experience.

The local population is very friendly and hospitable, which contributes greatly to a welcoming experience for tourists.

How Many Days Do I Need in Natal Brazil?

The number of days you should choose to spend in Natal will depend a lot on the time you have available and your personal interests, such as what you want to do in the city and the pace you want to travel at.

Natal is so charming that four or five days may not be enough to enjoy everything it has to offer. But remember that during the high season, accommodation and beaches become more crowded. This can affect the pace of the activities you want to do, as everything can take a little longer. Believe me, I’ve been there, it’s not pleasant. 

Therefore, choosing the number of days will depend on your personal preferences and also on how much you want to enjoy the trip. Regardless of the length of your stay, planning the details well is essential if you want to have an unforgettable trip.