Nature is the main attraction in Natal, so don’t come here expecting to see cobblestoned lanes lined with colonial buildings. In reality, it’s all about the sand dunes, and thankfully they are indeed impressive and worth lots of exploration at the Parque das Dunas. The Brazilian Outback is just inland from Natal, and there is some amazing underwater scenery at Maracajau. For urban culture, head to Ponta Negra or check out the classic Forte de Reis Magos fortress.

Brazilian Outback
The hot, arid interior of Brazil’s northeast is a real treasure trove for people who enjoy natural beauty and anthropology. Indigenous petroglyphs, fossilised dinosaur footprints 120 million years old, and rock formations as cool as anything on Earth await travellers who venture into Brazil’s outback. Natal is the base for this region.

Forte de Reis Magos
This classic fortress is so cool you have to wonder why they didn’t build them all like this. Standing alone in shallow seas atop the reef, the fort is connected to land only by a spit of sand that disappears at high tide, creating a fortress island. Each room is nicely explained in English, and there’s a small museum focusing on Vasco de Gama. The highlight is the view from the ramparts, looking over the dunes and Natal’s skyline. 
Phone: +55 84 3502 1099

Maracajau
The coasts to the north and south of Natal are lined with shallow coral reefs ideal for snorkelling. The pinnacle of underwater scenery in this region is found at Maracajau, about an hour north of the city. A fun buggy ride is the preferred way to get to this remote location, and since the honeycomb of reefs are no deeper than five metres and the water clear and warm, it’s absolutely ideal for snorkelling.

Natal Aquarium
Brazil’s largest aquarium is in Natal, featuring some 60 different species of marine creatures in 30 tanks. Most of the marine life was caught locally along the Rio Grande do Norte coast, though a couple of penguins add some global diversity to the scene. Of particular interest are the sandpaper sharks, so meek you can touch them without concern. 
Phone: +55 84 224 2177

Parque das Dunas
Covering 3,400 acres, this massive park runs from downtown Natal all the way to Ponta Negra. This is the best place to experience the majesty of the sand dunes in a safe and easy way. There are several marked walking trails, but you can also sign up for a guided tour of the dunes’ highlights. 
Phone: +55 84 3201 3985

Ponta Negra
This district is the hub of everything in Natal, and chances are you’ll spend a fair bit of time wandering its streets. Part lies along the beach and part lies in the hilly interior. Together this area offers Natal’s quintessential nightlife in Praia dos Artistas, where you can enjoy traditional Forro music, or go hardcore clubbing.