300 days of sun a year, dromedaries, “flying” buggies, oceanic pools and hot nights: Natal is a party!
Natal Maps |
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Cultural |
Tourism |
The Coast |
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Telephone Area Code |
84 |
Distance from some Capital cities |
Rio de Janeiro: 2 645 km |
Tour Information |
Samu Ambulance: 192 |
The passion for Natal is a consensus among Brazilians and foreign visitors. There are many attractions for those who enjoy entertainment and a thriving nightlife and peaceful settings for those who are looking for tranquility. The easy-going nature of the population, 50% of which are young people who are ready to party at a moment’s notice, as well as their hospitality will certainly make your experience even more exciting once you get to know the enchantments of a destination that is unforgettable and of incomparable natural beauty.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Between November and February, the city is abuzz with attractions and an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. Events include the Cinema Festival and Carnival, among other local attractions. After that, the city gets calmer and more affordable, but not less interesting; there’s always pleasant weather, an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, and the warm Atlantic Ocean waters. In June and July you will see very few rainy days.
BRING ALONG
Besides bathing suits, do bring flip-flops, hats, and sunglasses. Make sure to bring along lots of sunscreen with high protection factor. If you are considering hiking the arid interior, include sneakers, loose and light clothing, and a big hat.
HEALTHY LIFE
A study published by NASA showed that the people of Natal breathe the purest air in South America. Now, a research done by OEI – Organization of the Ibero-American States for Education, revealed that Natal has the smallest rate of homicide deaths among the big cities in the country.
HOW TO GET HERE
By car: BR-101 links Natal to João Pessoa, Recife, Maceió e Aracajú. From Fortaleza, the access is through BR-116 until Boqueirão do Cesário (CE), continuing then through BR-304.
By Plane: The airport Augusto Severo (tel. 3644-1000), has flights coming in from the main capital cities of Brazil and Europe. During the high season, the frequency is 30 domestic flights daily and 25 international flights weekly.
By Bus: You can reach Natal by bus from the main northeast cities and the Southeast Region. Bus Terminal (tel. 3232-7310).
MOVING AROUND
In order to have more freedom and comfort, the best option is to rent a car. The 5 Stars Hotels are located at Via Costeira, which is located between Ponta Negra and the downtown Natal. Those who stay in this area will depend on taxis or the hotel transfer service. A rental-car will also facilitate the access to the beaches in the South and North part of the State, such as Pipa and São Miguel do Gostoso. In the main areas of town the streets are broad and well signed, but some pedestrian crossings require extra attention, due to the lack of traffic lights. The taxi fleet is good, the prices are fair and public transportation – busses and vans – offer access to most of the city. At night, your best option is to take a taxi.
FOREIGN PRESENCE
Of the approximately 2 million tourists who visit Natal each year, 30% are foreigners, mostly Portuguese. The city also receives Dutch, Spanish, Argentine, and Scandinavian visitors. Most spend a season in Natal and then return to their countries simply amazed.
But for most, it is not so. Many end up in love with the city and stay. Today, there are approximately four thousand foreigners residing legally in Natal and in neighboring municipalities.
Source: Quatro Rodas Guide RN 2008.
Learn
Second Residence – For some time Natal has been chosen by foreigners who come to Brazil with the objective of purchasing a second home. This is due to the climate, the natural beauty of paradisiacal beaches and the quality of life characteristic of the city.
Ponta Negra –Undoubtedly this is the neighborhood that offers the best infrastructure for tourists. Here you can find the best hotels and inns of small and medium-size, businesses, shopping centers, restaurants, bars and pubs, plus nightlife with endless options for everybody.
Ponta Negra is pleasant any time of the day. A simple walk on the sidewalk by the beach, or, in tasting great local and international cuisine or the magic of the night; in which brings together many beautiful people.
Entertainment and Leisure –Natal offers good musical and cultural options. Here you can dine in great restaurants, watch wonderful plays, listen to excellent live music, or simply dance all night to the sounds of electronic music.
Good options:
Rua Chile (Ribeira), Rua do Salsa (Ponta Negra), Teatro Alberto Maranhão (Ribeira), Casa da Ribeira (Ribeira), Real Botequim (Capim Macio), Music (Ribeira), among others.