Natal

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Natal's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Igreja do Rosário, a stunning baroque church that encapsulates the city's colonial past. Stroll through the vibrant streets of the historic center, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and charming shops. Stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast, enjoying fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Museu Camara Cascudo, where you can delve into the rich culture and history of Rio Grande do Norte. Explore the nearby Forte dos Reis Magos, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the Potengi River and the Atlantic Ocean. Spend some time in the Praça André de Albuquerque, where you can observe local life and perhaps catch a lively street performance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Northeastern cuisine, such as carne de sol and macaxeira. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade of Praia dos Artistas, soaking in the ocean breeze and vibrant atmosphere. End your night with a visit to a local bar featuring live forró music, dancing the night away with friendly locals.

day 2
Relaxing at Ponta Negra Beach
morning
:

Kick off your day at Ponta Negra Beach, known for its stunning views of Morro do Careca, a giant sand dune. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm waters or relax on the soft sand with a good book. Indulge in a light breakfast at one of the beachside kiosks, sampling tropical fruits and fresh juices.

afternoon
:

After soaking up the sun, try your hand at some water sports such as paddleboarding or jet skiing along the coastline. For lunch, savor a delicious seafood meal at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day. Spend some time exploring the local shops and artisanal stands that line the beach, picking up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the day winds down, take a sunset stroll along the beach, watching the sky change colors over the ocean. Dine at a popular seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes and fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. Cap off the evening with a cocktail at a beach bar, mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike.

day 3
Adventure at Genipabu Dunes
morning
:

Set off early for an exhilarating day at the Genipabu Dunes, where you can ride on the back of a dune buggy through stunning sandy landscapes. Experience the thrill of sliding down the dunes or opting for a camel ride for a unique perspective. Capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera, as the dunes stretch endlessly into the horizon.

afternoon
:

After an adventurous morning, cool off at the lagoon, where you can swim and relax on the shores. Enjoy a picnic lunch you brought along or sample local snacks from vendors in the area. Explore the nearby trails for a chance to see the native flora and fauna of the region.

evening
:

Return to Natal and unwind at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, trying dishes like feijoada or moqueca. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, reflecting on the excitement of your dune adventure.

day 4
Cultural Immersion in São Gonçalo do Amarante
morning
:

Travel to the nearby municipality of São Gonçalo do Amarante to discover its rich cultural heritage. Visit the Museu do Cangaço, which tells the story of the famous bandits of the Northeast and their impact on local culture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like tapioca and fresh fruits.

afternoon
:

Explore the local artisan market, where you can find handmade crafts and textiles, perfect for souvenirs. Participate in a cultural workshop, such as a cooking class or dance lesson, to immerse yourself in the local traditions. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a quaint restaurant, tasting authentic Northeastern dishes prepared with love.

evening
:

Attend a performance at a local theater or cultural center showcasing regional music or dance, providing insight into the vibrant artistic scene. For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its lively atmosphere, where you can enjoy live music while dining. Finish your day with a stroll through the town, taking in the warm hospitality and charm of the local people.

day 5
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Maracajaú
morning
:

Begin your day with a trip to Maracajaú, renowned for its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Once there, prepare for a snorkeling adventure, where you can explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and marine life. Enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, fueling up for a day of exploration.

afternoon
:

After snorkeling, relax on the beautiful beach, taking in the sun and the stunning views. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant, sampling the freshest catch prepared in traditional styles. Consider taking a boat tour to nearby islands or enjoying water sports like kayaking.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, find a spot on the beach to admire the breathtaking colors of the sky. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in local dishes while listening to the sound of the waves. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the sand beneath your feet and the warm sea breeze.

day 6
Historical Insights at the Forte dos Reis Magos
morning
:

Visit the iconic Forte dos Reis Magos, a historical fortress that stands at the mouth of the Potengi River, and learn about its significance in protecting the area from invasions. Explore the museum inside, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from the region's colonial past. Take in the stunning views of the river and the city from the fort's vantage points.

afternoon
:

After your historical tour, head to the nearby Parque das Dunas, a beautiful urban park offering walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. Enjoy a packed lunch in the park amidst the lush greenery, soaking in the tranquility of nature. Spend some time exploring the trails, learning about the local flora and fauna through informative signs along the way.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Northeastern cuisine, such as carne de sol and macaxeira. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade of Praia dos Artistas, soaking in the ocean breeze and vibrant atmosphere. End your night with a visit to a local bar featuring live forró music, dancing the night away with friendly locals.

day 7
A Day of Relaxation at Praia do Amor
morning
:

Travel to Praia do Amor, a stunning beach famous for its heart-shaped coastline, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Spend your morning lounging on the soft sand, swimming in the gentle waves, or exploring the tide pools along the shore. Enjoy a light breakfast from a beachside vendor, indulging in fresh fruits and refreshing coconut water.

afternoon
:

After a relaxing morning, grab lunch at one of the beach restaurants, savoring local seafood dishes while gazing out at the ocean. Consider joining a yoga class on the beach for a rejuvenating afternoon session, surrounded by the sounds of the waves. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and perhaps engaging in a friendly game of beach volleyball.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors, a perfect backdrop for photographs. Dine at a charming local restaurant, enjoying dishes made with freshly caught seafood and local ingredients. After dinner, relax with a stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean as night falls.

day 8
Wildlife Expedition in Ecological Parks
morning
:

Head out to the Ecological Park of Dunas do Natal to explore its diverse ecosystems, starting your day with a guided nature walk. Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region while enjoying the serene beauty of the dunes and lagoons. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a morning of exploration.

afternoon
:

After your guided tour, visit the nearby Parque da Cidade, a sprawling park offering various trails and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Enjoy lunch at a park café, taking in the peaceful surroundings. Spend your afternoon hiking the trails or simply relaxing in the park's natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Natal and enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in local dishes, perhaps trying a traditional dish like galinha à cabidela. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, observing the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for a drink at a beach bar. End the night with a visit to a local cultural center, where you might catch a performance of traditional music or dance.

day 9
Shopping and Culinary Delights in Natal
morning
:

Begin your day at the bustling Mercado Municipal, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while sampling fresh produce and unique regional specialties. Browse through stalls offering handicrafts, local spices, and souvenirs, picking up a few treasures to take home. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and strong Brazilian coffee.

afternoon
:

After shopping, take a culinary tour that introduces you to the region's flavors, visiting local restaurants and markets. Sample various dishes, from street food to gourmet offerings, learning about the ingredients and history behind each one. Spend some time at a cooking class, where you can learn to prepare a traditional dish to impress your friends back home.

evening
:

Cap off your culinary adventure with dinner at a renowned restaurant known for its innovative take on traditional Northeastern cuisine. Savor your meal while enjoying the ambiance and perhaps a live music performance. After dinner, explore the nightlife of Natal, discovering local bars where you can enjoy a cocktail and mingle with friendly locals.

Discover Natal

Read more in our Natal 2025 Travel Guide.

Natal Travel Guide