Cultural & Natural Wonders of Brazil's Northeast - 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Recife, Guided Tour of Recife Antigo

Welcome to the charming city of Recife, the state capital of Pernambuco. Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check-in. Then, you'll hit the ground running as you tour Recife Antigo, the city's historic center. Head to Praça Barão do Rio Branco, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings like Caixa Cultural, to see the Rosa dos Ventos sculpture, which marks where the city was first established in the 16th century. From there, you'll walk to some of the city's most important landmarks, such as the 17th-century Igreja da Madre de Deus.

Then, wander down Rua do Bom Jesus to get to the Embaixada dos Bonecos Gigantes, a cultural institution celebrating the art of giant puppets used in Carnival festivities. Your next stop is the Sinagoga Kahal Zur Israel, the first synagogue in the Americas, dating back to 1636. Today, the synagogue serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing artifacts, documents, and exhibits chronicling the history and contributions of Brazil's Jewish community. End the tour at the Capela Dourada, renowned for its opulent interior adorned with gold leaf. 

Day 2: Guided Tour of Recife's Museums & Cultural Institutions

Delve into the state's rich culture today on a full-day city tour, starting at Paço do Frevo, a museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating frevo, a unique music and dance style that originated in Pernambuco. Peruse the colorful costumes, multimedia presentations, and umbrellas used in frevo dances before continuing to the Centro Cultural Cais do Sertão on the waterfront. Step inside to discover the museum's exhibits and displays showcasing the history, music, art, and daily life of the sertaneja people who inhabit the arid lands of the Brazilian highlands. 

The museum also pays tribute to iconic figures like Luiz Gonzaga, a legendary musician who popularized northeastern music styles worldwide. Learn more about him at the Memorial Luiz Gonzaga, a museum dedicated to the "King of Baião." Your next stop is the Parque de Esculturas Francisco Brennand, featuring work from one of Brazil's most celebrated sculptors. Brennand's most notable work, the 104-foot-tall (32 m) Torre de Cristal, has become one of the city's most recognized symbols.

Another famous Brennand is Francisco's cousin, who established your next destination, the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, to house his extensive art collection. Stroll through the complex to admire the art and architecture, as the institute's centerpiece is a castle-like structure surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens. End the tour at the Oficina Ceramica Francisco Brennand, a workshop and studio complex. Watch artisans mold clay into intricate forms that reflect Francisco's distinct style, then stroll through the gallery to see more of his masterpieces.

Day 3: Catamaran Tour Along the Río Capibaribe & Río Beberibe 

Today, you'll discover why Recife is often called the "Venice of Brazil" as you set off on a catamaran boat tour. Once on board, you'll cruise down the Río Capibaribe and Beberibe, giving you a look at the blend of old and new architecture that defines the city. Marvel at the colorful colonial houses along Rua da Aurora, the striking bridges connecting different parts of the city, and the bustling riverfront markets. You'll also pass landmarks like the Parque de Esculturas Francisco Brennand, Recife Antigo, Palácio do Campo das Princesas, and Teatro de Santa Isabel, so keep your eyes peeled.

Day 4: Transfer to Olinda, Guided Tour of the UNESCO-listed Alto da Sé

Say goodbye to Recife this morning as you transfer 20 minutes up the coast to the charming colonial town of Olinda. When you arrive, you'll meet your guide for a full-day tour of the city's UNESCO-listed historic center, Alto da Sé. Not only is it one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, it's also situated on the highest point of the city, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Start your tour at the iconic Sé Cathedral, built in the 16th century by Portuguese settlers. Admire the Baroque-style architecture, then step inside to see the intricate wood carvings, gilded altars, and sacred artwork.

Continue to the nearby Mercado de Artesanato da Sé to shop for handcrafted goods and local artwork.
As evening approaches, head to the buzzing Praça do Alto da Sé, the ultimate spot for nightlife in Olinda. Enjoy dinner at one of the lively restaurants or bars before making your way to the Mirante do Morro da Caixa D'Água. Take an elevator to the top of the hill and enjoy views of the city's colorful colonial rooftops, sprawling coastline, and the distant skyline of Recife.

Next, visit the iconic Prefeitura de Olinda, the starting point of the giant puppet parade during Carnival. Built in the 17th century, this building features stunning neoclassical architecture and has served as the Palace of Governors and the Brazilian government headquarters on several occasions. Lastly, discover the historic Sobrado Mourisco, with its distinctive Moorish-inspired design, and Casarão Vermelho across the street, better known as the "Red Mansion" for its bold, crimson facade.

Day 5: Enjoy a Free Day on Praia do Farol

Today, you're free to explore the area at your own pace, so you can head to Praia do Carmo, also known as Praia do Farol, for its charming lighthouse. Lay on the golden sand to soak up the sun, then go for a dip in the calm and inviting waves. When you get hungry, take advantage of the beachside stalls selling traditional Brazilian dishes, such as bolinho de bacalhau, small codfish fritters seasoned with herbs and spices. After a day on the beach, wander down Rua do Amparo in the historic center and choose from an array of local and international restaurants for dinner.

Day 6: Transfer to Recife, Fly to Fernando de Noronha, Guided Island Tour

Say goodbye to mainland Brazil behind today as you return to Recife to catch a 1.5-hour flight to Fernando de Noronha, one of 21 volcanic islands and islets in the archipelago of the same name. When you arrive, you'll join your guide on a full-day tour of the island, starting at the TAMAR Project's headquarters to learn about their mission to protect sea turtles and their natural habitats. Then, it's on to Praia do Sancho, consistently ranked among the world's best beaches. Continue soaking up the sun at Praia do Porto before heading to Buraco da Raquel, a natural cave carved into the cliffs.

Take a break from the heat in the Museu do Tubarão, a museum that showcases the shark species found in the archipelago's waters. Your next stop is the Capela de São Pedro, an 18th-century whitewashed chapel that reflects the island's colonial past. After admiring the chapel, dive into the Baía do Sueste and swim alongside giant sea turtles, rays, and even the occasional shark. Enjoy panoramic views of the island's beaches and rock formations from Praia do Leão and Cacimba do Padre before ending the tour at Mirante do Boldrão, where you can witness a spectacular sunset.

Day 7: Hike Along the Capim Açu Trail, Natural Pools Tour 

Day 8: Fly to Natal, City Tour & Sunset Boat Ride

After breakfast, it's time to return to mainland Brazil on a three-hour flight to Natal, known for its sprawling sand dunes that stretch along the coast. As soon as you arrive, you'll set off on a city tour, starting with a drive along Via Costeira, an avenue that connects the urban beaches of Natal with the popular Praia de Ponta Negra. Continue past the beaches of Meio, Artistas, Forte, and the districts of Santos Reis, Rocas, Ribeira, and Cidade Alta, which are some of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. You'll also see historical monuments like the Teatro Alberto Maranhão along the way.

Stop at the Centro de Turismo de Natal, housed in a former prison dating back to the 19th century. Today, each former cell hosts artisanal shops selling handmade goods like pottery, jewelry, and lacework. Your last stop is the Royal Natal Yacht Club if you're up for a sunset boat ride along the Río Potengi. Board a catamaran and sail along the calm waters, enjoying views of the city skyline, historic landmarks, and lush mangroves lining the riverbanks. Watch as the sun slowly sets, transforming the sky and river below into a vibrant canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples before returning to shore. 

Day 9: Transfer to Praia de Pipa, Kayak Tour in Lagoa Guaraíras

Your next destination is Praia da Pipa, a picturesque town home to a pristine beach of the same name. After the one-hour transfer south, check into your hotel and freshen up. Then, meet your driver for a 20-minute transfer to Lagoa Guaraíras for an eco-friendly kayaking adventure. Jump into a single or double kayak, then start paddling across the lagoon, stopping for two refreshing swims in the crystal-clear waters.

When you're back in your kayak, paddle to the lagoon's network of mangrove channels, known as "levadas" by the locals. Learn about the ecological importance of the mangroves and the wildlife they support, from colorful fish to elusive crabs and even mammals like raccoons and otters. Following your 2.5-hour kayak ride, return to town and wander along the beachfront to find a local or international restaurant for dinner.

Day 10: Scenic Bike Ride Along the Rota das Falésias

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast to prepare for today's adventurous bike ride along the scenic Rota das Falésias. The route stretches along the coastline, so you'll be accompanied by a constant breeze to cool you down. During low tide, pedal along the hard sand of Praia das Minas, a primary nesting site for sea turtles that the TAMAR Project manages. Stop for a refreshing swim in the natural pools and the Río Catú, then jump back on your bike to cycle for another 4.3 miles (7 km) to reach the historic village of Sibaúma.

Wander through the village primarily comprised of the descendants of quilombolas, enslaved people who sought refuge in the region during the early 19th century. Stop to engage with the locals and learn about their fascinating past and present lives. Discover the traditions and customs passed down through generations and gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped this vibrant community. After exploring the village, return to your hotel to rest your feet. 

Day 11: Transfer to João Pessoa, Guided City Tour

Bid farewell to Praia da Pipa this morning as you continue your journey south to João Pessoa, the capital of the state of Paraíba. After the two-hour transfer, meet your guide for a tour of the city's historic center, starting in the lower town to see Hotel Globo's elegant facade. Continue to Praça Antenor Navarro, a vibrant square surrounded by colorful colonial architecture and adorned with palm trees. Enjoy a stroll through the square, then head to the upper town, where you'll find the Casa da Pólvora, which was built in the 17th century to store gunpowder.

Your next stop is the Teatro Santa Roza, one of the oldest theaters in Brazil, where you can admire the neo-classical architecture and its elegant facade. Take a break from the city streets in the Parque da Lagoa Sólon de Lucena, an expansive park surrounding a tranquil lake. Wander around the lake or rent a paddle boat to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the water. Wrap up the tour at the Mercado de Artesanato Paraibano, a bustling market full of handmade goods, including intricately woven lace, colorful pottery, and vibrant paintings.

Day 12: Boat Tour to Ilha de Areia Vermelha, Explore Ponta do Seixas 

Day 13: Fly to Salvador, Half-Day Historical City Tour, Evening in Rio Vermelho

Your journey continues with a two-hour flight to Salvador, the capital of the Bahia state. As soon as you arrive, you'll meet your guide for a history tour, starting in the lower city to explore landmarks like the monument of Zumbi dos Palmares, a prominent figure in Afro-Brazilian history. Wander through the neighborhood of Piedade to see the colonial-era buildings and the Monumento à Independência da Bahia, a monument commemorating Bahia's independence from Portuguese colonial rule. Walk along the Corredor da Vitória to get to Pelourinho, the city's historic district. 

Pass beautiful churches like Igreja de São Francisco, Catedral Basílica, Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos on your way to the Elevador Lacerda, which connects the upper and lower cities. Enjoy views of the bustling Mercado Modelo below and the turquoise waters of All Saint's Bay stretching out to the horizon. End the tour at Largo do Pelourinho, where you can choose whether to visit the Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado, a museum housed in a restored colonial building dedicated to one of Brazil's most renowned authors.

In the evening, you'll party like a Bahian in Rio Vermelho, a lively neighborhood nicknamed the "Bohemian Quarter." Follow your guide down the bustling streets lined with bars, restaurants, and botecos (informal Brazilian bars), offering delicious snacks, cold beer, and refreshing cocktails. You'll also find plenty of Baianas de acarajé, Bahian women specializing in making and selling acarajé, deep-fried balls made from black-eyed peas, split open and filled with savory ingredients like shrimp or shrimp paste. Grab a snack and a drink, then dance to the live music filling the streets.

Day 14: Full-Day Boat Tour Around Ilha de Boipeba

Change into your bathing suit and get ready for a day on the water as you cruise to Ilha de Boipeba off the coast of Bahia. When you arrive, your first stop is the natural pools of Moreré. Don your scuba diving gear and descend into the crystal-clear waters. The coral reefs are rich in biodiversity, so you may see colorful fish like angelfish, damselfish, or wrasses. You may also spot sea anemones, eels, and rays, so keep your eyes peeled. Head to a floating bar next to sample local seafood and drinks, such as a caipifruta, a cocktail made with cachaça (a distilled sugar cane spirit), sugar, and fresh fruits. 

Day 15: Full-Day Cultural Tour of Cachoeira, Depart

Although your 15-day tour of northeastern Brazil is coming to an end today, you have time for one last adventure: a visit to the UNESCO-listed town of Cachoeira. On the one-hour transfer, stop at a busy country market in Santo Amaro to browse the array of exotic fruits and vegetables. Once you grab a snack for the road, continue the drive through the rolling hills. When you arrive, sit down for lunch, then join your guide for a stroll along the cobblestone streets to admire the town's well-preserved colonial architecture, like the Town Hall of Cachoeira, an 18th-century architectural gem.