Fernando de Noronha geography

It is only recently that Fernando de Noronha has been zeroed in on as a holiday destination and a dream getaway. Its distance from the shore does not seem to be a limiting factor as the islands are attracting tourists with regularity, even if it is to just see the sun setting on the sea.

Formed as a result of volcanic activity of the mountains beneath the Atlantic, the archipelago spans an area of only seventeen square kilometres and is 340km from the coast. With a population of only 2100, it is developing tourism in a sustainable way, finding a balance to preserve the beautiful ecological sanctuary.

How long to stay in Fernando de Noronha

To do full justice to your holiday to Fernando de Noronha, a minimum of five days is required. It is only then that you can enjoy the abundance of natural beauty that Noronha has to offer. Plan your holiday at Noronha after considering the several options available with tour operators and you can select what appeals to you the most.

Fernando de Noronha history

The early settlers on the island were the Portuguese who arrived in 1503 when Americo Vespucio claimed the land for them. They built a fortress at Vila dos Remedios, which is now in ruins. Vila dos Remedios is also the most inhabited town on the island, and where you will find most of your accommodation options. The islands were initially used as a prison. Later they were used as a stopover for flights headed to Europe. During the Second World War, Noronha was also a location for an airbase, which the Brazilian Air Force still uses even today.

The islands are teeming with all types of wildlife. However, the human population is quite small and even tourism is restricted to a mere 420 people at a time on the island. The number is further controlled by the fact that the longer one stays on the islands, the higher the permit fee. The island is also home to Brazil's shortest national highway, the sole paved road here.

Find a Fernando de Noronha Pousada

Although there is only one hotel in Noronha, many pousadas cater to visitors and are up to full capacity in the summer. Our interactive map shows all of our Fernando de Noronha hotels . Earlier, lodging was available in some rustic inns and in the houses of residents of the island. However, lately some upscale hostels have emerged to host the island's tourists.

Fernando de Noronha environment

It was in 1970 that nearly three-fourths of the archipelago was included in the National Marine Sanctuary of Fernando de Noronha. Called the PN Fernando de Noronha, it is aimed at conserving and protecting both the marine and land environments of the archipelago. The conservation effort has been particularly helpful in protecting the sea turtle population.

These islands are indeed Brazil's hidden treasures and today Fernando de Noronha is a benchmark in environmental protection. The clear and warm waters of the equatorial region around the islands beckon snorkelers and divers and also underwater photographers . There are nearly sixteen beautiful beaches you can choose from. One can view at least two hundred species of fish, as well as sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks.

Fernando de Noronha activities

Apart from offering a range of underwater activities, Fernando de Noronha is also a great place for surfers. The beaches, especially those facing Brazil's Atlantic coast, are full of Brazilian surfers who ride waves which are nearly two metres high and which sometimes reach even five metres in height. Beaches which are superb for surfing in Fernando de Noronha include Bode Beach, Boldró, Cacimba do Padre, Meio and Conceição. There are other beaches which are more remote and you can reach them either by mountain biking, walking or riding. Trekking in the interior of the islands is another popular activity you can enjoy. This way you can partake of some of the best views in Brazil.

To delve into the past of Noronha, a visit to the hundred-year-old chapel Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Our Lady of the Conception) and the many fortresses present on the island is a must. A visit to the fortress also ensures that you get some of the best views of the archipelago. A visit to the museum called Memorial Noronhense - Espaço Cultural Américo Vespúcio will get you acquainted with some of the islands' stories and legends.

There are many other interesting sites on Fernando de Noronha. For instance, the Baía dos Porcos beach has some remarkable rock sculptures. If you are visiting during the rainy season, then do go to the waterfall at Praia do Sancho. There is a divine natural swimming pool too nestled amongst the rocks at Praia do Atalaia. The highest point on the island is a rocky structure called Morro do Pico, standing 321 metres high (1,053 feet). The sunset at this point is a real treat.

Fernando de Noronha weather

Throughout the year the island has an even and pleasant temperature which hovers around 26°C (79°F). The rainy season from February to July is also a refreshing part of the year at Fernando de Noronha.