City Tour of Natal and the South Coast

Exploring the vibrant city of Natal and its stunning south coast doesn’t get much better than this full-day tour. Visitors can enjoy the historic neighborhoods, marvel at iconic landmarks, and indulge in local delicacies – all while taking in the area’s natural beauty. Whether it’s browsing lively markets or embarking on a river cruise, this comprehensive experience promises to showcase the best of what this captivating region has to offer. With an itinerary tailored to suit a range of interests, the city tour is a must-consider for anyone seeking an insightful and memorable journey.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best City Tours In Natal.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive guided sightseeing tour of Natal’s historic neighborhoods, including Ribeira, Rocas, and Santos Reis, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage.

• Scenic viewpoints along Potengi River and the iconic Reis Magos Fortress, offering a picturesque glimpse of Natal’s coastal landscapes.

• Exploration of the lively Ponta Negra Market, allowing visitors to sample local cashew nuts and browse authentic souvenirs.

• Relaxation at Cotovelo Beach, where guests can swim in the warm waters and observe traditional fishing boats.

• Inclusion of round-trip transportation and a professional guide, ensuring a seamless and informative tour experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day guided sightseeing tour from Natal takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s historic neighborhoods and stunning coastal landscapes.

Highlights include exploring the iconic Fortaleza dos Reis Magos, taking in scenic views along the Coastal Highway, and discovering the local market and Cotovelo Beach in Ponta Negra.

Travelers can also try various cashew nuts at the market, adding a flavorful element to the experience.

With round-trip transportation and a professional guide, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Natal and its surrounding areas.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transportation from most Natal hotels and air-conditioned coach transport to ensure a comfortable journey.

A professional guide will accompany you throughout the day, providing insights and information about the sights you’ll see.

However, gratuities, food, drinks, and attraction fees aren’t included in the tour price.

There are two optional activities you can add: a boat ride on the Potengi River (approximately BRL 32.00) and a tour of the Dunas Arena (approximately BRL 20.00).

The minimum required for the English tour option is 2 people.

Travelers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimsuit, sandals, and proper footwear for the day’s activities.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel at 9:00 am, after which you’ll explore Natal’s historic neighborhoods of Ribeira, Rocas, and Santos Reis.

Next, you’ll visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Natal, spending around 1 hour and 20 minutes there.

You’ll then enjoy scenic views of the Reis Magos Fortress from the Potengi River for 45 minutes. An optional 1-hour tour of the Dunas Arena is available for an additional fee.

The tour continues at the Ponta Negra Market, where you can browse local crafts for an hour.

Important Information

Confirmation is received at booking for this tour.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. A minimum of 2 people is required for the English tour option.

Travelers should bring recommended items like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimsuit, sandals, towel, and proper footwear. The maximum group size is 45 travelers.

This information ensures guests are prepared and aware of any limitations before embarking on the sightseeing excursion. By being upfront about the tour’s accessibility and requirements, the operator can set accurate expectations and provide a more enjoyable experience for all participants.

Reviews and Feedback

The city tour of Natal and the South Coast has received a rating of 3.3 out of 10 based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.

While some travelers praised the quality of the guide and their accommodating nature, the overall feedback suggests room for improvement. Notably, a guide named Ursula Physes was singled out for their care and consideration.

However, the relatively low rating indicates that the tour may not fully meet the expectations of all participants. Potential guests should review the detailed itinerary and inclusions to determine if the tour aligns with their interests and preferences.

Historic Neighborhoods

The tour begins with a visit to the historic neighborhoods of Ribeira, Rocas, and Santos Reis. Guests will have the opportunity to explore these well-preserved areas, each with its own unique charm and cultural significance.

Some highlights include:

• Admiring the architecture and witnessing the daily life of the local residents
• Browsing the lively markets and shops for authentic souvenirs
• Visiting historical landmarks like churches and community centers
• Taking in the vibrant local atmosphere and gaining insight into Natal’s rich heritage
• Capturing breathtaking photos to commemorate the experience.

Scenic Viewpoints

Next, the tour makes its way to scenic viewpoints along the Potengi River and Reis Magos Fortress. Visitors can enjoy lovely vistas of the river and the historic fortress from the riverbanks. The tour includes a 45-minute stop at this location, allowing ample time to take in the sights and snap photos.

Viewpoint	What You’ll See
Potengi River	Flowing waters, boats, and the distant Reis Magos Fortress
Reis Magos Fortress	Centuries-old Portuguese colonial architecture perched on the riverbank
Both	Stunning scenery and a picturesque blend of nature and history

The combination of the river and fortress creates a memorable visual experience that showcases Natal’s natural and cultural heritage.

Local Markets and Beaches

After taking in the scenic views, the tour then explores the local markets and beaches.

At the Ponta Negra Market, visitors can try various cashew nuts and browse local crafts.

The tour also stops at Cotovelo Beach, where travelers can:

• Swim in the warm, turquoise waters
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere and local cuisine
• Relax on the golden sand
• Observe the traditional fishing boats
• Soak up the sun and take in the coastal vibe

This portion of the tour provides a glimpse into the vibrant local culture and offers opportunities to take in the natural beauty of Natal’s southern coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Does the Tour Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks English, based on the information provided. The tour requires a minimum of 2 people for the English tour option, indicating the guide is able to conduct the tour in English.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Exploring on My Own?

The tour allocates 2 hours and 15 minutes of free time for travelers to explore on their own. This includes 1 hour at Ponta Negra Market and 1 hour 30 minutes at Cotovelo Beach.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements the Tour Accommodates?

The tour doesn’t specifically accommodate dietary requirements. However, you’ll have the opportunity to try local cuisine at Cotovelo Beach. Participants can choose what and where to eat during the free time allotted.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized to your personal interests. While the standard itinerary is fixed, the guide is accommodating and can adjust the pace and activities to suit your preferences. Just let them know what you’d like to focus on.

What Is the Policy for Cancellations and Refunds?

The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible – travelers can cancel or modify their booking up to 24 hours before the tour starts and receive a full refund, minus any non-refundable fees. Refunds are issued in the original payment method.

The Sum Up

The City Tour of Natal and the South Coast provides an immersive experience showcasing the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can explore iconic sites, browse local markets, and partake in optional activities like a boat ride and beach visit. This comprehensive tour offers an engaging way to discover the captivating charm of Natal and its surrounding areas.