Natal, Brazil: A Hidden Gem in South America

Published in

Best Free Guides

4 min readApr 5, 2023

If you’re looking for a destination that’s off the beaten path, yet still offers all the excitement and adventure of a bustling city, then Natal, Brazil should be at the top of your list. Located in the northeastern region of Brazil, Natal is a city that’s rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. In this blog post, I’ll give you all the reasons why you should visit Natal, including safety, the best time of the year to go, and some personal touches that make this city truly special.

Safety in Natal

Before we get into all the fun things to do in Natal, let’s address the elephant in the room: safety. Brazil has a reputation for being a dangerous country, and it’s true that there are some areas that are best avoided. However, Natal is not one of them. In fact, Natal is considered one of the safest cities in Brazil, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. Of course, it’s always important to take basic precautions when traveling, such as not flashing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, but overall, you can feel safe and secure in Natal.

Best Time to Visit Natal

The best time to visit Natal is between September and December, when the weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. January and February can be extremely hot and humid, while the rainy season runs from March to August. However, even during the rainy season, you can still enjoy Natal’s many indoor attractions, such as museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Things to Do in Natal

Now that we’ve covered safety and timing, let’s dive into all the amazing things to do in Natal. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Explore the Beaches

Natal is known for its stunning beaches, which stretch for miles along the coast. Some of the most popular beaches include Ponta Negra, Praia do Forte, and Genipabu. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, surf, or just stroll along the sand, you’ll find plenty of options in Natal.

Visit the Natal Historic Center

Natal has a rich history that’s reflected in its architecture and landmarks. The Natal Historic Center is a must-visit for history buffs, with its colonial-era buildings, churches, and museums. Be sure to check out the Forte dos Reis Magos, a 16th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city.

Take a Dune Buggy Tour

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Natal is taking a dune buggy tour. These tours take you through the sand dunes that surround the city, with stops at beaches, lagoons, and other natural wonders. It’s a thrilling way to see the beauty of Natal up close.

Try the Local Cuisine

Brazilian food is famous for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Natal is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as moqueca (a seafood stew), acarajé (a fried bean cake), and tapioca (a type of crepe made with cassava flour). And of course, no trip to Brazil is complete without trying some caipirinhas, the national cocktail made with cachaça and lime.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Natal has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Whether you want to dance the night away to samba or relax with a cold beer on the beach, you’ll find something to suit your taste.

What do I think?

So far, I’ve given you a lot of practical information about Natal, but what really makes this city special are the personal touches. For example, Natal is known for its hospitality and friendliness, so you’re sure to feel welcome wherever you go. And because Natal is still relatively undiscovered by tourists, you’ll get a chance to experience the authentic Brazilian culture without the crowds and commercialization of more popular destinations.

Another personal touch that I love about Natal is the music. Natal is the birthplace of forró, a traditional Brazilian dance and music style that’s characterized by its accordion and triangle. You’ll hear forró everywhere in Natal, from the street musicians to the live bands in the clubs. It’s impossible not to tap your feet and join in the fun.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Natal, Brazil is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, Natal has something for everyone. And because it’s still relatively unknown, you’ll get a chance to experience the authentic Brazilian culture without the crowds and commercialization of more popular destinations. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Natal today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.

Places to Visit in Natal, Brazil

Ponta Negra

A popular beach with a vibrant nightlife and stunning views of the Morro do Careca sand dune.

Genipabu

A stunning sand dune landscape that offers dune buggy rides and camel rides.

Fortaleza dos Reis Magos

A historic fort built in the 16th century that offers panoramic views of the ocean and city.

Parque das Dunas

A nature reserve with a variety of trails and wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds.

Natal Historic Center

A charming area with colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic churches.