Natal is the capital of Rio Grande do Norte state in northeastern Brazil, with a population of just under 860,000. The name "Natal" means Christmas in Portuguese, as the city was founded on December 25. With over 300 sunny days a year, Natal is also called “Cidade Do Sol” (City of the Sun) and is known as a major tourist destination within Brazil. Although temperatures are high year-round, the humidity is low, making it a popular spot for many tourists from North America and Europe.
Natal has a wide array of tourist facilities such as resort hotels, inns, restaurants, and shopping malls. Known as the place with the cleanest air in the world after Hawaii. Let us introduce some must-visit attractions in Natal.
1. Forte dos Reis Magos
Forte dos Reis Magos is a star-shaped fort built in 1599 by Portuguese settlers to defend against external attacks. Located at the northernmost tip of the city, it is one of Natal’s most important historical sites and a prominent landmark. During peak tourist season, the fort receives up to 2,000 visitors per day. Inside, you can view cannons used at the time and exhibits about the colonial history of Rio Grande do Norte. Its unique star shape was designed to allow surveillance of the sea, river, and land for potential enemy invasions, offering incredible panoramic views.
After fierce battles with the Dutch during the Portuguese colonial era, Natal was under Dutch control for 21 years starting in 1633. Many Brazilian soldiers lost their lives fighting for the Portuguese side at Forte dos Reis Magos. As the oldest structure in the region, this fort is a valuable historical attraction where you can learn about the harsh past of Natal, Brazil. Be sure to visit, enjoy the view, and reflect on its history.
Name: Forte dos Reis Magos
Address: Av. Presidente Café Filho, 1 - Praia do Meio, Natal - RN, 59010-000
Official/Related Website URL: http://portal.iphan.gov.br/pagina/detalhes/569/
2. Ponta Negra
Ponta Negra is one of Natal’s main tourist beaches, known for its beautiful 4 km stretch of sandy coastline. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a resort atmosphere, with plenty of shopping malls, restaurants, and resort hotels.
At the southern end stands the Morro do Careca (Bald Hill), a massive dune that looks like a giant slide, standing 120 meters tall and surrounded by vegetation. While it was once accessible for climbing, tourist entry has been prohibited since the late 1990s to protect the dune and prevent sand erosion. However, its impressive silhouette is still a spectacular sight from the beach at Ponta Negra, making it a must-see attraction.
Name: Ponta Negra
Address: Praia de Ponta Negra, s/n - Vila de Ponta Negra, Natal - RN, 59090-210
3. Newton Navarro Bridge
The Newton Navarro Bridge, named after a local artist, is a cable-stayed bridge over the Potengi River in Natal with a daily traffic volume of 25,000 vehicles. It took three years to construct and was completed in 2007. Measuring 1,781.6 meters in length, 22 meters in width, and 103.45 meters in height, it is an impressive structure and the second longest bridge in Brazil after the Rio–Niterói Bridge in Rio de Janeiro.
The Newton Navarro Bridge was built to ease access between the northern and southern regions of Natal and the state of Rio Grande do Norte, as well as to improve access for tourists traveling from the international airport to the northern areas of the state. True to its purpose, the bridge has greatly benefited both residents and tourists as a major transit route. The sight of the white bridge stretching over Brazil’s blue sky and sea is truly breathtaking, so be sure to visit the Newton Navarro Bridge on a sunny day and take in the view.
Name: Newton Navarro Bridge / Ponte Newton Navarro
Address: Santos Reis, State of Rio Grande do Norte
4. Barreira do Inferno Launch Center
The Barreira do Inferno Launch Center, located in Parnamirim on the outskirts of Natal, is Brazil’s first rocket launch center, established in 1965. While Brazil’s main space development centers are now located elsewhere, Barreira do Inferno continues to support small- to medium-scale projects and the launching of sounding rockets. From 1965 to 2007, it recorded 233 launches. It also serves as a military facility under the jurisdiction of the Brazilian Air Force.
The facility is open to tourists interested in learning about rocketry, but advance reservations are required for visits. When touring Natal, be sure to head out to the suburbs and visit the popular Barreira do Inferno Launch Center.
Name: Barreira do Inferno Launch Center
Address: Ponta Negra, Parnamirim - State of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.clbi.cta.br/internet/
5. Genipabu Sand Dunes
Genipabu in Natal is the top tourist destination in the city. This beach features a combination of dunes, lagoons, and a protected environmental area, and is also known as a postcard image of the state of Rio Grande do Norte.
A recommended activity is riding a four-person buggy at high speeds over the steep and rolling sand dunes for an exhilarating and thrilling experience. You can choose from a few-hour course, a half-day course, or a full-day course depending on your schedule. Other activities include camel rides on the dunes, sand sliding into the lagoon, and zip-lining — there’s something for everyone. The warm, clear water of Genipabu also makes it a favorite swimming spot for tourists.
At the many photogenic spots throughout these activities, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take great photos. At the end of your adventure, you’ll have the option to purchase any memorable pictures. Tourists often find these to be cherished souvenirs. Enjoy your time at Genipabu — one of the most recommended tourist spots in Natal.
Name: Genipabu Sand Dunes / Dunas de Genipabu
Address: RN-303, Extremoz - RN, 59575-000
6. The world's largest cashew tree
About 12 km south of Natal, along Pirangi Beach in the suburb of Parnamirim, stands the Guinness World Record-certified largest cashew tree in the world, known as the “Pirangi Cashew Tree.”
This cashew tree covers an area of approximately 8,500 square meters — equivalent to about 70 regular-sized cashew trees. Though said to have been planted in 1888, based on its growth, some suggest the tree could be over 1,000 years old. From June to December, it produces about 80,000 cashew fruits annually, weighing a total of 2.5 tons — all from a single tree!
The site attracts more than 300 visitors a day and is one of the area’s most popular tourist destinations. What’s more, visitors are allowed to freely pick cashew fruits. When visiting Natal, make sure to stop by and enjoy the taste of freshly harvested cashews.
Name: The World’s Largest Cashew Tree (Pirangi Cashew Tree) / O maior cajueiro do mundo
Address: Av. Dep. Márcio Marinho, 2 - Pirangi do Norte, Parnamirim - RN, 59161-250
◎ Summary
Natal, “The City of the Sun” in Brazil — the land of the sun — is a coastal city with a summer-like climate all year round. It’s a popular resort destination not only for domestic tourists but also for many from North America and Europe, and is always lively. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or playing in the water, the vastness of the blue ocean and sky offer a healing experience and peace of mind. While caution is always advisable, this area is considered one of the safer regions in Brazil.
Though Brazil’s large metropolitan cities have their charm, Natal — where you can unwind and relax — is a recommended destination for a more leisurely Brazilian experience. Be sure to visit “The City of the Sun” and enjoy a truly relaxing getaway.