Secluded Archipelago and Diving Paradise

 

Departures: Year-round
Places Visited: Fernando de Noronha

Highlights
This 10-day tour begins with a stay in Recife, the fascinating capital of Pernambuco with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Nearby Olinda is one of the best preserved baroque colonial towns in Brazil; explore the delightful cobblestone streets packed with art studios, stunning 17th and 18th century churches and charming restaurants. Head south to spend a few days in one of the premier beach destinations in the Northeast. Porto de Galinhas offers excellent accommodations, fine restaurants and great snorkeling in a fun laidback setting. Then visit Brazil’s finest island destination, the beautiful archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, home to abundant marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles and colorful fish. 

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

  • 3 nights of accommodation in Recife
  • Daily breakfast and local taxes
  • Half Day city tour Recife & Olinda
  • Full Day tour to Porto de Galinhas
  • 5 nights of accommodation in Fernando de Noronha
  • Daily breakfast and local taxes
  • 2 dive days with two dives each day

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

  • Meals and drinks, except as mentioned above
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional tours and experiences
  • Any items not mentioned

Day 01: Recife. Upon arrival, transfer to Best Western Manibu Hotel.
The rest of the day free to spend at leisure. Enjoy a stroll along Boa Viagem beach, visit the local evening craft market and listen to some upbeat Forró music. 

Day 02: Recife.

Half day city tour Recife & Olinda
Visit the main sights of Recife, including Guarapes Hills (the birthplace of Brazil), Boa Viagem Beach, the historic downtown including the main monumental square, the Golden Chapel, Fort Brum and the Casa da Cultura, a former jail now packed with colorful arts and crafts. The tour also includes a visit to nearby Olinda. Perched on a hill overlooking the ocean and Recife, this beautifully preserved 17th century baroque town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Alto da Sé lookout with its two baroque churches for a breathtaking view of the twin cities.

Day 03: Recife.

Full day tour to Porto de Galinhas
One of the most popular beach destinations is just over an hour drive south of Recife. Board a traditional single-sail fishing raft to visit the pools that form among the reefs at low tide. Book a beach buggy to visit the outlying beaches. Explore the shops in the village and pick up some colorful Pernambuco artwork, cotton hammocks or stylish summer fashion. Rent a mask and snorkel to explore the natural pools or simply sit back on the beach with a refreshing chilled coconut.

Day 04: Recife / Fernando de Noronha. At appropriate time, transfer to the airport for flight to Fernando de Noronha.

Reception and transfer from Fernando de Noronha airport to Selected hotel.
Ecological Lecture – Welcome at Águas Claras Auditorium for a 40-minute video presentation on the attractions of Fernando de Noronha.

Day 05: Fernando de Noronha. 
Transfer from hotel to port to board the dive boat. Includes 2 tanks for diving (divers must hold valid certification). The dive sites will be chosen by the captain, according to the sea conditions and skill levels of the divers. Return to hotel. Rest of the day free to relax and explore

Day 06: Fernando de Noronha. Day at leisure.
Spend a day relaxing or book an optional excursion to Baia dos Porcos, one of the highlights of Fernando de Noronha. The bay looks out over the landmark Two Brothers Rocks. Natural pools form between the rocks and reefs. 

Day 07: Fernando de Noronha.
Transfer from hotel to port to board the dive boat. Includes 2 tanks for diving (divers must hold valid certification). The dive sites will be chosen by the captain, according to the sea conditions and skill levels of the divers. Return to hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure. Visit Conceição beach, one of the best beaches on the island with great waves, a beautiful natural setting and several pleasant bars.

Day 08: Fernando de Noronha. 
Day at leisure.
Book an optional excursion to Baia dos Golfinhos (Dolphins Bay), located near Sancho beach. This is a protected area where boating and swimming is prohibited. Take the trail down to the lookout for one of the best viewing points for spotting the large pods of spinner dolphins that often gather here.

Day 09: Fernando de Noronha: At appropriate time, transfer to the airport.


Tour descriptions and approximate times are for informational purposes only.
Some places described may be substituted and/or approximate times may be subject to change, due to unexpected circumstances.