Logistics · Destination Guide
UNESCO protected big animal hotspot on Brazil's Atlantic frontier
Updated Nov 21, 2025 • 15 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Fernando de Noronha is reached almost exclusively by air. Domestic flights connect Governador Carlos Wilson Airport (FEN) with Recife (REC) and Natal (NAT), mainly on Azul and Gol, with flight times around 1 hour 15 to 1 hour 30 minutes. There are no regular ferries from the mainland, and occasional expedition cruises or private yachts need special permits to call at the island. Because visitor numbers are capped and daily environmental taxes apply, it is wise to purchase flights and confirm your environmental tax payment and park pass well before travel.
Governador Carlos Wilson Airport
FEN • SBFN
4 km • 10 km drive
The only airport on the archipelago, FEN sits roughly in the middle of the main island and handles short haul flights from Recife and Natal on narrow body jets and turboprops. Facilities are basic but adequate, with check in counters, a few small shops and desks to pay the environmental tax and handle park formalities.
Transport: Pre arranged pousada transfers, Local taxi service (Nortax) from the terminal, Buggy and car rentals from small agencies, Public bus from the main road near the airport
The main road (BR 363) runs from Porto to Sueste and is covered by a simple public bus that runs roughly every 30 minutes and accepts cash only. Nortax operates the island's official taxis, with fixed fares between key points, and many visitors rent buggies or small cars for a day or two to gain more freedom. Walking is practical for linking many beaches around Vila dos Remedios, but trails can be hot and steep. There are no ride share apps and drink driving laws are strictly enforced, so designate a sober driver if you rent a buggy.
Fernando de Noronha follows Brazil's national entry rules. Many European and Latin American passport holders can enter Brazil visa free for short stays, but as of April 2025 citizens of the United States, Canada and Australia require an e visa obtained in advance. All visitors need a passport or, for Brazilians, valid national ID. Separate from immigration, every non resident pays a daily environmental preservation tax and most visitors also purchase a Marine National Park pass. Always check the latest visa and health information with official Brazilian government sources before booking.
Because flights to FEN have tight baggage allowances and extra kilos are costly, consider bringing your personal essentials (mask, computer, regulator if you are particular) and renting bulkier items such as BCD and tanks from local operators. Nitrox is available with advance notice. Gear rinsing is usually provided by dive centers, while many pousadas have small rinse areas for snorkel gear. Spearfishing equipment is not allowed in the marine park and is best left at home. Pack spare O rings and basic spares because dive shops carry limited stock compared to big city centers.
Brazilian Real (BRL)
The Brazilian real is the only legal tender. Most pousadas, dive centers and larger restaurants accept major credit and debit cards, but smaller snack bars, taxis and some tours prefer cash. Prices on Noronha are significantly higher than on the mainland due to freight costs and visitor caps.
There are only a few ATMs on the island, usually in or near Vila dos Remedios. Machines sometimes run out of cash or decline foreign cards, so bring at least one backup card and a cash buffer from the mainland. Do not rely on being able to withdraw large sums on arrival.
127V & 220V (varies by property) • 60Hz • C, N
Brazil uses mainly type N outlets that also accept type C plugs. Some accommodations run at 127V, others at 220V, occasionally with a mix of outlets in the same building. Most modern electronics and dive chargers are dual voltage, but always check device labels and bring a universal adapter.
Communications
Mobile coverage on Noronha is limited but functional near Vila dos Remedios and main roads, with weaker or no signal at some beaches. International roaming can be expensive and slow. Several public wifi hotspots and government backed wifi points exist, but speeds are modest and outages are common. Expect to disconnect and use offline maps and stored confirmations rather than relying on constant connectivity.
Language
Portuguese is the island's primary language. English is spoken to varying degrees in some dive centers, pousadas and tour agencies, but less so in small shops and on buses. Learning a few key Portuguese phrases for greetings, directions, numbers and dietary needs greatly smooths interactions.
Insurance
Travel medical insurance that covers Brazil is strongly recommended for all visitors, and dive specific coverage through organizations like DAN or similar is advisable for anyone diving or freediving. Check that policies include air evacuation and hyperbaric treatment. Keep digital and printed copies of policy numbers and emergency contact instructions accessible offline.
Packing list
Pack light, breathable clothing, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and plenty of reef safe sunscreen. Bring a long sleeve rashguard and light trousers for sun protection rather than relying only on lotions. For the water, a 3 mm wetsuit or thin springsuit, booties, mask and snorkel are ideal, plus a compact dry bag and reusable water bottle to comply with plastic restrictions. Offline maps, spare charging cables and any personal medications should be in your carry on.