Tourism Guide to the North-East and Brazil — Bahia, Salvador and More | Bahia.ws

Travel guides for Bahia, Alagoas, Ceará and the whole of the North-East of Brazil: beaches, ready-made itineraries, culture and accommodation tips. Get inspired and plan your trip.

Rio Grande do Norte Travel Guide

Tourism in Rio Grande do Norte: Natural, Cultural and Economic Heritage

The state of Rio Grande do Norte, situated in the north-east of Brazil, stands out as a major national tourist destination.

Renowned for its diverse natural landscapes, such as dunes, beaches, cliffs and hinterlands, the state offers a combination of ecological, cultural and historical attractions.

Rio Grande do Norte is establishing itself as a national tourist destination, offering lush natural landscapes, memorable cultural experiences and excellent infrastructure.
The diversity of attractions ensures there are options to suit all types of tourist, from the adventurous to those seeking peace and relaxation.

Natal RN
Natal RN

1. Overview of Tourism

Tourism in Rio Grande do Norte is strongly influenced by natural factors such as the semi-arid tropical climate and the constant winds.
The hospitality of the Potiguar people contributes significantly to the visitors’ experience.

The capital, Natal, is the state’s main gateway, but tourism is also expanding to destinations such as Pipa,
São Miguel do Gostoso, Maracajaú and Galinhos.

2. Tourist Attractions

2.1 Christmas

  • Ponta Negra Beach: a picture-postcard view featuring Morro do Careca.
  • Forte dos Reis Magos: a historic 16th-century building.
  • Coastal Road: a link between urban beaches and hotels and resorts.
  • Parque das Dunas: Brazil’s largest urban Atlantic Forest reserve.
Praia de Ponta Negra em Natal RN
Ponta Negra Beach in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte

2.2 Genipabu

  • Shifting sand dunes with buggy rides.
  • Sports such as snow tubing, aerobunda and dromedary rides.
  • Genipabu Lagoon, the perfect place to relax.
Praia de Genipabu no RN
Genipabu Beach in Rio Grande do Norte

2.3 Maracajaú

  • Parrachos de Maracajaú: ideal reefs for diving.
  • Boat and catamaran trips using local facilities.

2.4 Pipes

  • Cliffs and the iconic Praia do Amor.
  • Dolphin Bay: whale and dolphin watching.
  • A lively nightlife and viewpoints such as Chapadão.
Praia do Centro (também chamada de Praia de Pipa)
Praia do Centro (also known as Praia de Pipa)

2.5 São Miguel do Gostoso

  • Beaches such as Tourinhos and conditions for kitesurfing.
  • A welcoming atmosphere with sandy streets and guesthouses.
Vila de São Miguel do Gostoso
The village of São Miguel do Gostoso

2.6 Chicks

  • Seclusion and tranquillity, accessible by boat or 4×4.
  • Horse-drawn carriage rides and canoe trips on the River Aratuá.
Galinhos no RN
Galinhos in Rio Grande do Norte

3. Culture and Events

3.1 Public holidays

  • Carnatal (Natal): Brazil’s biggest off-season carnival.
  • Caicó Carnival: the third largest in the North-East.
  • Feast of Saint Anne (Caicó): a religious and cultural celebration.
  • Festa do Boi (Parnamirim): an agricultural and cultural event.

3.2 Natural Heritage

  • The World’s Largest Cashew Tree: located in Pirangi do Norte, covering more than 8,500 m².

4. Traditional Cuisine

  • Prawns: highlights include bobó and prawns in pumpkin.
  • Sun-dried beef with cassava: a traditional dish from the sertão.
  • Paçoca de carne de sol: a regional dish made with cassava flour.
  • Grilled coalho cheese: a delicacy served on the beaches.

5. Infrastructure and Accessibility

5.1 Access

  • Natal International Airport: located in São Gonçalo do Amarante.
  • Motorways such as the BR-101 link the capital to the interior.

5.2 Accommodation

  • A wide range of hotels, resorts and guesthouses.
  • Expansion of the hotel network in Pipa, Maracajaú and São Miguel do Gostoso.