Natal

Natal is the capital of Rio Grande do Norte in Brazil's northeast and is often called the 'City of the Sun' for its warm climate and abundant sunny days. It sits on the Atlantic coast near the country's easternmost point and combines relaxed beach life with a compact, modern urban centre.

The city's landmarks include the star-shaped Forte dos Reis Magos, built in the 16th century at the meeting point of the Potengi River and the ocean, and the striking Morro do Careca dune behind Ponta Negra Beach. Nearby, the Genipabu dunes offer popular buggy rides and lagoon swimming, while the world's largest cashew tree at Pirangi is a short drive away.

Ponta Negra is Natal's best-known tourist district, with hotels, restaurants and nightlife facing the beach. The historic centre around Cidade Alta and Ribeira retains colonial churches, museums and markets, while Parque das Dunas preserves a large stretch of Atlantic Forest dunes within the city.

Natal grew from a colonial outpost into a hub for tourism, trade and services in Brazil's northeast. Its airport and road links support a strong leisure economy, and the Arena das Dunas stadium built for the 2014 World Cup hosts sports and events. Seafood, tapioca, carne de sol and regional dishes are central to the local food scene.

For visitors, Natal offers an easy base for beach trips, dune adventures and coastal excursions, while business travellers find modern hotels, conference space and reliable connections to other Brazilian cities.