The small archipelago of Fernando de Noronha consists of a large island of the same name and many tiny landmasses around it. First of all, it is known as one of the world’s best diving destinations. Beach vacations are no less popular here, and eco-tourism enthusiasts and those who prefer to merge with nature and avoid crowds of tourists are also attracted here.
The archipelago is located 350 km off the northeast coast of Brazil, is of volcanic origin and consists of 21 islands. Its total area is about 20 km. 18 km of the territory is occupied by a single island with the same name – Fernando de Noria. The rest are home to numerous birds, reptiles and endemic species. The highest point is Morro do Pico Mountain (323 meters).
The largest island of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago
- The island’s largest facility is the airport, and the local economy is based on eco-tourism. Therefore, all the necessary infrastructure is well developed. However, you won’t find luxury five-star hotels here – tourists are accommodated in modest guesthouses that organically fit into the environment without disturbing it;
- Fernando de Noronha pays considerable attention to preserving the environment, which is the focus of the local government’s policy. Just over 460 guests can stay here at a time. At the same time, they have to pay a progressive tax, the amount of which starts from $14 and increases with each day of stay;
- The only settlement on the island is Vila dos Remedios (population about 3 thousand). There is no reason to stay there for a long time – the monotonous architecture consists of colorful one-story houses standing on a hill, and the roads are broken or covered with ancient stone in some places. In the center there is a historic palace, which is hardly a palace. The most popular object is the post office. There’s always someone nearby using unvarnished Wi-Fi – there’s no other free connection to the outside world;
- The main attraction on Fernando de Noronha, for which tourists come here, is excellent diving with the richest underwater world. Here you can see not only sea turtles, but also dangerous moray eels and sharks, friendly dolphins, huge lobsters, and clumsy octopuses. Snorkeling, beach recreation, fishing, bird watching, hiking and boat trips are also popular here.
A brief history
Europeans discovered the Fernando de Noronha archipelago in the early 16th century. And in 1503, it was described by Amerigo Vespucci, who took part in an expedition exploring the coast of Brazil. The largest island, as well as the archipelago itself, was named after one of the sponsors of this event. The Dutch, British, French, and Portuguese attempted to colonize the island. In the early seventeenth century, the latter built military fortifications and founded settlements on the island.
During the Second World War, an airport and a prison for political prisoners were built here. During this period, massive deforestation began; now the authorities are planting new trees.
In 1988, a significant part of the archipelago became the territory of the National Marine Park, which was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001.
What tourists need to do on the Fernando de Noronha archipelago
- Go diving. This place is considered one of the best in the world for this entertainment. The visibility of its turquoise depths reaches 50 meters, and the abundance of marine life invariably leaves the best impressions;
- Take a walk through the ruins of Forte dos Remédios, which have been preserved since the colonization of the island by the Portuguese. From the top, where they are located, breathtaking views of the neighborhood and the village of Vila dos Remedios open up;
- Visit the ancient church Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, built in 1772. The facade of the building needs restoration, but in the surrounding landscape it only adds a special flavor;
- Take first-class photos against the backdrop of the Morro do Pico mountain. This is one of the main local natural attractions;
- Eat plenty of seafood. The food in local restaurants is excellent, the interiors are cozy, and the service is top-notch;
- Enjoy your vacation on the beautiful beaches. They are considered the best in Brazil. Warm water, fine sand, gentle entrance, palm trees and privacy – all this attracts vacationers here.