The essentials before you land in Natal.

Visa

EU, UK, US, Canadian, Australian and most South American passport holders enter Brazil visa-free for 90 days, extendable once. From 10 April 2025, US/Canadian/Australian visitors need an eVisa (online application, ~USD 80).

• Passport valid for 6+ months from arrival
• Proof of return or onward ticket may be requested at immigration
• Digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) available for stays beyond 90 days

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL). Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere — even at beach kiosks. Pix (instant bank transfer) is the local default; you can use it via Wise or Western Union.

• ATMs widely available; Banco do Brasil and Bradesco accept foreign cards
• Notify your bank before travel to avoid blocks
• Tipping is not required (10% is usually already included)

Language

Portuguese is the official language. English is spoken at hotels, dive shops and most restaurants in Natal, Pipa and São Miguel do Gostoso. Spanish gets you a long way; a few words of Portuguese open doors.

Climate & best time

Tropical, 24–32 °C year-round. Driest months: August to December. Trade-wind season for kite/wingfoil: August to November. Rains concentrate March to June and are short, late-afternoon showers.

Safety

Standard urban precautions in Natal: avoid displaying expensive electronics in busy streets, use rideshares at night. Tourist towns (Pipa, Gostoso, Galinhos) are very safe to walk after dark. Beware of strong currents on some beaches — look for lifeguard flags.

Getting around

Natal’s airport (NAT) has direct flights from Lisbon (TAP) and seasonal European charters. Car rental is the best way to explore the coast — distances between major spots are short (≤4 h). Uber and 99 work in Natal and Pipa.

Health

No mandatory vaccines for most travelers. Yellow fever recommended if continuing into the Amazon. Tap water is safe in Natal but bottled or filtered is the local habit. Sunscreen 50+ and hydration are essential.

Connectivity

4G/5G coverage on the entire coast. Local eSIMs (Claro, TIM, Vivo) are the cheapest option — buy on arrival at the airport or via Airalo/Holafly before flying.

Plugs & electricity

Brazilian plug type N (three round pins). Voltage varies by region — in Natal and most of RN it is 220 V. Bring a universal adapter; most hotels have multi-standard sockets.