Natal

Natal: an essential destination in Rio Grande do Norte

Known for its natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture, the city of Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, is a major tourist destination in Brazil.

Known as the “City of the Sun” due to its predominantly sunny climate almost all year round, Natal offers a wide range of tourist attractions and activities for different visitor profiles.

Climate and best time to visit

The best time to visit Natal is between September and March, the dry season.

During this time the climate is more stable and there is less rainfall.

However, the destination can be visited all year round due to its tropical climate and mild temperatures, making it an option for those looking for good weather conditions.

Tourist attractions in Natal

1. Natural attractions and landscapes

The city’s main natural attractions include its long stretch of beaches and imposing dunes. Among the best known are

  • Ponta Negra Beach: Famous for its iconic 120 metre high dune, Morro do Careca. A popular meeting place for tourists and locals alike, the beach offers a diverse infrastructure of bars, restaurants and leisure facilities.
  • Genipabu Beach: With its shifting dunes and lagoons, it is a popular destination for buggy rides. In addition to the traditional rides, activities such as “esquibunda” (dune descent on a board) and “aerobunda” (cable car over the dunes) are very popular.
  • Parque das Dunas: Considered one of the largest urban parks in Brazil, it offers visitors the opportunity to walk and picnic while preserving a significant area of Atlantic Forest.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

The Historic Centre of Natal is a place of great importance for the preservation of the city’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Among the area’s historical landmarks are the Church of Santo Antônio (also known as the Church of the Rooster) and the Palace of Felipe Camarão, the seat of the City Hall.

The Forte dos Reis Magos, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, offers an immersion in Brazil’s colonial history and a privileged view of the city’s coastline.

Other places of interest include the Câmara Cascudo Museum, which preserves and promotes the history and culture of Rio Grande do Norte, and the Alberto Maranhão Theatre, an important cultural centre in Natal.

3. Gastronomy

Natal’s cuisine is characterised by its authentic flavours and typical dishes, especially seafood and local ingredients. Among the most characteristic dishes are prawns in strawberries, carne de sol with cassava and tapioca. Seafront restaurants such as Camarões, Farofa d’Água and Mangai offer visitors a gastronomic experience enhanced by panoramic views of the sea.

4. Nightlife

Natal‘s nightlife is lively, especially in the Ponta Negra neighbourhood, where bars, clubs and restaurants offer entertainment with live music and late night parties. Forró, the traditional northeastern rhythm, is one of the predominant musical styles in the concert halls and bars, offering an immersion in the local culture.

5. Carnival

Carnatal, considered Brazil’s largest micareta, is one of Natal’s most important cultural events, attracting thousands of revellers every year. Its organisation brings a significant increase in tourism to the city, making it one of the largest popular festivals in the country.