Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: travel guide
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.
- Country
- Brazil
- Currency
- BRL
- Time zone
- America/Noronha
- Nearest airport
- FEN
Plan a Fernando de Noronha trip
Top places to visit in Fernando de Noronha
Mirante dos Golfinhos
Wildlife · 4.8 rating · about 1 h
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
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
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 around
- Car Rental Self main way to get around
Seeded from the curated primary_local_modes array; per-city parameters not yet researched.
- Scooter Rental main way to get around
Seeded from the curated primary_local_modes array; per-city parameters not yet researched.
- Walking main way to get around
Seeded from the curated primary_local_modes array; per-city parameters not yet researched.
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.