Fernando de Noronha: Brazil’s coastal gem

Fernando de Noronha

Located 500 km northeast of Recife, Fernando de Noronha is hailed as the crown jewel of Brazil’s beach destinations. Visitors of the renowned archipelago will be amazed by its breath-taking scenery, crystal clear water, unique rock formations and rich marine life. Fernando de Noronha is also one of Brazil’s most protected islands, allowing only 750 visitors per day. Do bring ample cash though, because while Fernando de Noronha tops the list of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, it is also one of the most expensive islands that I have visited.

Reflection

On top of being a beach paradise, Fernando de Noronha is also an ecological sanctuary that will thrill nature lovers. With a population of only about 3,000 people, Fernando de Noronha is a pristine UNESCO Natural World Heritage site with exceptional landscapes and a wide range of flora and fauna. With some luck, you can catch glimpses of manta rays, sharks, turtles – and even dolphins! The only challenge during my stay on this beautiful island is language. I would suggest learning some common Portuguese phrases prior to your visit because the locals converse almost solely in Portuguese. Personally, sign language was the best way for me to interact and get around on this tranquil oasis.

Here are some destinations I recommend to visit in Fernando de Noronha, including a breakdown of some common expenditures from a backpackers’ point of view.

Sancho Beach

-Sancho Beach: One of the most scenic beaches I have ever seen. Perfectly set within an environment of calming tranquillity and turquoise waters, it is definitely a paradise for avid beach goers.

Dois Irmaos Hill

-Porcos Bay: This iconic beach is often featured in postcards to represent the unparalleled beauty of Fernando de Noronha. The bird’s eye view of Porcos Bay is especially spectacular – it is definitely an experience that you will not want to miss. Surrounded by the bluest of skies, Dois Irmaos Hill is also a destination to look forward to during your trip on Porcos Bay.

-Sueste Bay: Keen for some excitement and adrenaline rush? Look no further than Sueste Bay, a marine paradise where you can snorkel among sea turtles, mini sharks and endless schools of fishes. You can easily spend hours on this enchanting beach!

Dress Code

-Dolphin-watching at Golfinhos Bay: Dolphin-watching is a delightful morning routine that you can indulge in on this island. Join a boat trip and from there, you can witness the dolphins engage in some amazing acrobatic displays.

Sunset from Remedios Fort

-Sunset at Remedios Fort: A great beach is where one can anticipate the perfect sunset. If I were to come up with a list of the world’s best sunset spots, Remedios Fort is definitely among my top choices.

Coke R6 (USD 2.3)
500ml water R2 (USD 0.7)
Guest House R170 (USD 66)
Conservation Tax R48.2 / day (USD 18.7)
Environment Tax R150 for 10 days (USD 58.2)
Round trip Air ticket R1000 – R1500 (USD 388 – USD 582)
Taxi (app 2km) R25 (USD 9.7)
Dinner R50 (USD 19.4)
Bread R4 (USD 1.5)

Golfinhos Bay