Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: travel guide
A protected volcanic archipelago of dolphin bays and clear Atlantic water
Brazil's most exclusive island paradise — a volcanic UNESCO World Heritage archipelago 354 km off Recife. Baía do Sancho ranks among the world's best beaches; spinner dolphins arrive daily. Visitor numbers strictly capped.
About Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago in the Atlantic, well off the Brazilian coast and administered as part of Pernambuco. It is a marine national park, with the main island ringed by small bays, rocky headlands and some of the clearest water in Brazil.
The Mirante dos Golfinhos overlooks a bay where spinner dolphins gather, and beaches such as Baía dos Porcos and Cacimba do Padre are best known for snorkelling, diving and surf. Numbers of visitors are controlled to protect the environment, which keeps the island quiet.
It suits couples, divers and nature lovers who want an unhurried stay. The drier months from August to January bring the clearest water and calmer seas, while wave watchers prefer the winter swell.
- Country
- Brazil
- Currency
- BRL
- Time zone
- America/Noronha
- Nearest airport
- FEN
Last updated
Plan a Fernando de Noronha trip
Top places to visit in Fernando de Noronha
Mirante dos Golfinhos
Wildlife · 4.8 rating · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
Clifftop viewpoint where hundreds of spinner dolphins congregate in the bay below each morning. Access is restricted to before 8am only.
Baía dos Porcos
Beach · 4.9 rating · about 2 h · check the fee at the gate
Fernando de Noronha's most photographed spot — a small bay flanked by volcanic rocks with brilliant turquoise water. The Dois Irmãos rocks create an iconic silhouette at sunset.
Praia da Cacimba do Padre
Beach · 4.8 rating · about 2 h · check the fee at the gate
Long wild beach with the iconic Dois Irmãos rocks as backdrop — hosts international surfing championships. Strong waves make it better for watching than swimming.
Things to do
- Spinner Dolphin Snorkelling Tour Nature · 2 h · from 150 per person
- Scuba Diving at Cabeço Dive Site Nature · 3 h · from 350 per person
Where to stay in Fernando de Noronha
- Vila dos Remédios about BRL 1,800 per night
The island's main village — all pousadas and restaurants within walking distance. The only real accommodation option on the island.
Hotels
- Pousada Maravilha 5-star · BRL 2,200 to BRL 6,500 per night
Where to eat
- Zé Maria seafood, fish, regional · about BRL 80 per person
- Ecologika organic, healthy, vegetarian · about BRL 60 per person
Getting to Fernando de Noronha
Airport: Fernando de Noronha (FEN)
Getting around
- Car Rental Self
- Scooter Rental
- Walking
Safety and scams to avoid
Environmental Fee Fraud
Fernando de Noronha Airport arrivals
Touts offer to pay the Preservation Environmental Tax (TPA) on your behalf for a "reduced price" or "faster processing." The TPA must be paid online directly.
How to avoid it: Pay the TPA (Taxa de Preservação Ambiental) only through the official SEMATUR website or app before arrival. Never hand cash to intermediaries for government fees.
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Frequently asked questions about Fernando de Noronha
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Fernando de Noronha?
- The highest-rated places in our Fernando de Noronha guide are Baía dos Porcos, Mirante dos Golfinhos, Praia da Cacimba do Padre.
- Where should I stay in Fernando de Noronha?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Fernando de Noronha: Vila dos Remédios.
- How do I get around Fernando de Noronha?
- Ways to get around Fernando de Noronha covered in our guide: Self-drive car, Scooter rental, Walking.
- What scams should I watch out for in Fernando de Noronha?
- Scams reported to us for Fernando de Noronha include Environmental Fee Fraud. Each is explained in the guide, with how to avoid it.
- Which airport is nearest to Fernando de Noronha?
- The nearest airport to Fernando de Noronha has the code FEN.