Fernando de Noronha, Brazil - Travel Guide

Fernando de Noronha is a pristine volcanic archipelago renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It's a paradise for diving, snorkeling, and surfing, offering unparalleled natural beauty and a commitment to ecological preservation.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay5 days

Budget$100/day

Mid-range$250/day

Luxury$700/day

Known For

Fernando de Noronha ArchipelagoAtol das RocasNatalRecifePernambucoAtlantic Oceanmarine parkUNESCO World Heritage sitevolcanic islands

🇧🇷 Country Information: Brazil

CapitalBrasilia

CurrencyBrazilian real (R$)

Language Portuguese , English, Spanish, Indigenous languages

Phone Code+55

Electricity127/220V (Type C, N)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is common in restaurants and bars (10% service charge is often included, but extra tipping for excellent service is appreciated)
Taxis: Round up the fare or tip a small amount
Hotel staff: A small tip for porters and housekeepers is customary
Tour guides: Tipping is appreciated for good service

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available, especially in major cities
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger towns, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas
It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in remote areas
There is no official black market for cash, but street vendors may offer slightly better exchange rates for foreign currency

Cultural Norms

Brazilians are generally warm and friendly, and physical touch is common (e
g
, hugs, kisses on the cheek)
Punctuality is more relaxed compared to some Western cultures, especially for social gatherings
Dress casually but neatly in most situations; beachwear is for the beach only
Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers unless they initiate the conversation
When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift for the host

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Brazil has a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in major cities. Same-sex marriage is legal, and there are constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

The legal drinking age is 18
Public consumption of alcohol is generally permitted
Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts of illicit drugs can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment

Special Laws

It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing unless you are a member of the armed forces
Be aware of local protests or demonstrations, which can occur frequently
Photography of military installations, police, or protests is generally prohibited

Common Phrases

NoNão (NOWNG)

YesSim (SING)

HelloOlá (oh-LAH)

PleasePor favor (poor fah-VOR)

Thank youObrigado/Obrigada (oh-bree-GAH-doo/oh-bree-GAH-dah)

Good morningBom dia (bohng DEE-ah)

Good afternoonBoa tarde (BOH-ah TAR-jee)

Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpa (kohn lee-SEN-sah/dee-SKOOL-pah)

Climate

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago and volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean, characterized by a tropical climate.

Climate Zone: Equatorial Monsoon

Best Time to Visit

Rainy season: Mar
Jul

Getting There

Fly to Recife (REC) or Natal (NAT) and then take a connecting flight to Fernando de Noronha (FEN)
Flights to FEN are typically 1
2 hours and can cost $200
$500 round trip depending on the season and origin
Access is restricted and requires an environmental preservation fee and sometimes a prior booking for accommodation

Getting Around

Taxis are available but expensive
Buggies and motorcycles are popular for getting around the island
There are no ride
sharing apps like Uber or Grab on the island
Public buses operate on a limited schedule along the main road

Health & Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for Brazil
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP) should be up to date
Malaria is not a significant risk in Fernando de Noronha
Dengue fever and Zika virus can be present, so mosquito repellent is advised
Sun protection is crucial

Staying Connected

eSIMs are generally available through major Brazilian providers like Vivo, Claro, and TIM
Airalo and Nomad eSIMs may also work, but coverage can be inconsistent on the island
Local SIM cards are often recommended for better connectivity

Local Cuisine

Seafood Dishes regional_speciality

Given its island location, Fernando de Noronha is renowned for its fresh and exquisite seafood. Dishes often feature local catches prepared in authent

Fresh Coconuts non_alcoholic_beverage

A classic tropical refreshment, fresh coconuts are widely available, especially at beachside vendors. This natural drink provides a hydrating and cool

Pizzaria na Moita Sourdough Pizza must_try

This establishment is famous for its amazing sourdough pizza options, offering a unique and popular dining experience on the island. It features outdo

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Fernando de Noronha National Marine Park Ticket permit_or_pass

Book at least 1 month in advance

This mandatory ticket grants access to the most beautiful beaches and national park areas. Booking ahead ensures you have access and avoids potential lines.

Accommodation (Pousadas) Accommodation

Book 2–6 months in advance

Accommodation on the island is limited and prices are very high. Booking far in advance is essential to secure desirable stays and better rates.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Scuba Diving or Boat Tours tour_or_activity

Book 1–2 months in advance

Popular diving and snorkeling sites (like Ilha do Meio) and boat trips (like the boat tour that follows the whole coast) have limited spaces and are highly sought after.

Fun Facts

1. Fernando de Noronha is closer to Africa geographically than it is to some Brazilian state capitals, adding to its remote and untouched appeal in the middle of the Atlantic.
2. The archipelago is home to Brazil's shortest federal highway, the BR-363, which is only 7 km long, making hitchhiking a common and safe way to get around the main island.
3. The island's gasoline is notably the most expensive in all of Brazil, sometimes costing up to 50% more than in cities like Recife, due to its remote location and single gas station.
4. Fernando de Noronha was once used as a prison and holds the distinction of being Brazil's first hereditary captaincy, granted by the King of Portugal in 1504.

Ready to explore Fernando de Noronha?

Create a personalized day-by-day itinerary with AI

Start Planning Your Trip