7 Best Destinations in the Brazilian Northeast: Sun, Culture, and Adventure

Dre
Sep 27
5 min read

The Brazilian Northeast is one of the most captivating regions in South America. With its endless coastline, vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, delicious regional cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, this part of Brazil feels like a world of its own. If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, the Northeast is a must-see, offering everything from colonial history to turquoise beaches, from desert-like landscapes to lush tropical oases.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 best destinations in the Brazilian Northeast, uncovering what makes each of them special, how to experience them, and why they belong on your travel bucket list.

Coastal panorama of Santos, Brazil, showcasing its expansive beaches lined with high-rise buildings, lush green hills, and the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean under a bright, clear sky.

1. Salvador, Bahia – Afro-Brazilian Soul & Colonial Charm

Salvador is the beating cultural heart of Brazil. Once the country’s first capital, this city blends Portuguese colonial architecture with Afro-Brazilian traditions, creating a city alive with music, dance, and spiritual energy.

What Makes Salvador a Special Brazilian Northeast Destination

Pelourinho: The UNESCO World Heritage historic center, filled with colorful colonial houses, cobblestone streets, and lively squares.
Music & Dance: Home to capoeira and samba-reggae. You’ll find drumming circles, street performances, and dance schools everywhere.
Carnival: Unlike Rio, Salvador’s Carnival is a street party for everyone, with massive trios elétricos (sound trucks) leading the parades.
Afro-Brazilian Food: Try acarajé (fried black-eyed pea balls filled with shrimp), moqueca baiana (fish stew with coconut milk and dendê oil), and cocada (coconut candy).

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $70–$120 (mid-range hotel)
Food: $25–$40
Activities & transport: $20–$40

2. Jericoacoara, Ceará – The Desert Oasis by the Sea

Jericoacoara, affectionately called “Jeri,” is a remote fishing village turned bohemian paradise. Hidden among rolling sand dunes, it offers some of the most surreal sunsets in Brazil.

A natural rock formation with a large arch stands majestically against a backdrop of ocean waves and a serene sky, creating a picturesque coastal scene.

What Makes Jeri Special

Pedra Furada: An iconic rock arch, perfect for photos at sunset.
Sand Dunes: Watch the sun dip below the horizon from the giant dunes—it’s a nightly ritual.
Lagoa do Paraíso: A crystal-clear lagoon with hammocks floating in the water.
Laid-back vibe: No paved streets, just sand. Everyone gets around barefoot or by buggy.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $60–$100 (pousada or boutique inn)
Food: $25–$35
Buggy tours & activities: $40–$70

3. Recife & Olinda, Pernambuco – Culture Meets Coastline

Recife, the “Venice of Brazil,” and its sister town Olinda make for a perfect cultural getaway. Together, they blend modern vibrancy with colonial charm.

Colorful colonial buildings line the riverfront under a partly cloudy sky, showcasing a vibrant blend of architectural styles and history.

What Makes Recife & Olinda Special

Olinda’s Historic Center: A UNESCO site with colorful houses, churches, and cobbled streets, perched on a hill with ocean views.
Carnival in Olinda: Famous for its giant puppets (bonecos gigantes) and Afro-Brazilian rhythms.
Recife Antigo: Recife’s historic district with cultural centers, bars, and the bustling Marco Zero square.
Beaches: Boa Viagem Beach offers city-meets-sea vibes with golden sand and palm-lined shores.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $55–$90
Food: $20–$35
Cultural tours & transport: $20–$40

4. Lençóis Maranhenses, Maranhão – Brazil’s Natural Wonder

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is like stepping into a dream. This desert-like landscape features endless rolling sand dunes dotted with freshwater lagoons that form after the rains.

A woman relaxes on the pristine white sands of Lençóis Maranhenses, gazing out at the crystal-clear lagoon under a vast, cloudless sky.

What Makes Lençóis Maranhenses Special

Unique Landscapes: The contrast of white dunes and blue-green lagoons is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Adventure: Explore by 4x4, take boat tours along the Rio Preguiças, or hike across the dunes.
Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies here are breathtaking.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation (in Barreirinhas): $50–$80
Food: $20–$30
Tours & transport: $50–$100

5. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco – The Natural Pools Paradise

Regularly voted one of Brazil’s best beaches, Porto de Galinhas is known for its warm, crystal-clear water and natural tidal pools.

Tourists enjoy a sunny day at a bustling beach resort, surrounded by vibrant umbrellas and swaying palm trees.

What Makes Porto de Galinhas Special

Natural Pools: At low tide, coral reefs create shallow pools where you can swim with colorful fish.
Buggy Rides: “Ponta a Ponta” buggy tours take you along the 11-mile stretch of beaches.
Family-Friendly Vibe: Calm waters make it perfect for kids and casual swimmers.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $60–$120
Food: $25–$45
Activities & tours: $30–$60

6. Fortaleza & Canoa Quebrada, Ceará – Urban Energy Meets Hippie Beach

Fortaleza is a bustling city with strong nightlife and beach culture, while Canoa Quebrada—just a couple of hours away—offers a more alternative, laid-back atmosphere.

A vibrant aerial view of a bustling coastal city, showcasing high-rise buildings contrasting with the colorful umbrellas lining the sandy beach, set against the backdrop of the sparkling blue sea.

What Makes Fortaleza & Canoa Quebrada Special

Fortaleza Nightlife: Known for forró dance clubs and live music.
Canoa Quebrada Cliffs: Red cliffs and turquoise sea, a striking natural contrast.
Adventure Sports: Kite surfing, paragliding, and buggy rides are popular.
Cultural Blend: Fortaleza offers big-city energy while Canoa feels like a bohemian escape.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $50–$100
Food: $25–$40
Tours & nightlife: $30–$60

7. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco – The Island Paradise

Fernando de Noronha is Brazil’s crown jewel. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s one of the most beautiful islands in the world, famous for unspoiled nature and world-class diving.

Twin peaks emerge majestically from the turquoise waters of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, set against a backdrop of endless ocean and a serene sky.

What Makes Fernando de Noronha Special

Pristine Beaches: Consistently ranked among the best in the world (Baía do Sancho tops global lists).
Marine Life: Perfect for diving and snorkeling, with sea turtles, dolphins, and rays.
Sustainability: Strict visitor limits preserve the island’s ecosystem.
Exclusivity: Fewer tourists, higher costs, and unforgettable natural beauty.

Estimated Costs (per day for 2 people)

Accommodation: $120–$300
Food: $40–$70
Activities & fees (park + diving): $100–$200

Travel Tips for Exploring the Brazilian Northeast

Best Time to Visit: Between September and March for dry weather and festivals.
Transport: Regional flights connect major cities. For smaller destinations, expect to take buses or private transfers.
Budget Range: From budget-friendly pousadas ($40/night) to luxury resorts ($300+).
Language: Portuguese is the main language; English is limited outside tourist hubs.
Local Culture: Respect Afro-Brazilian traditions, enjoy forró and axé music, and embrace the warm hospitality.

Final Thoughts

The Brazilian Northeast is a land of contrasts—colonial cities and modern skylines, deserts and lush lagoons, laid-back villages and buzzing nightlife. Whether you’re diving with sea turtles in Fernando de Noronha, dancing in Salvador, or watching sunsets over Jeri’s dunes, the region offers experiences you’ll never forget.

If you’re planning your next adventure, these 7 destinations in the Brazilian Northeast highlight the best of Brazil: breathtaking nature, deep culture, delicious food, and unforgettable energy.