Hiking trails in Fernando de Noronha: the complete guide

Fernando de Noronha reveals itself in full to those who walk it. It is on the trails that the island shows its most beautiful and least obvious corners — breathtaking viewpoints, natural aquariums hidden between the rocks and the wildest part of the archipelago. Here you will find the main trails, with difficulty, distance and everything you need to know to enjoy each one safely.

If you are still planning your trip, it is worth combining the trails with the rest of your itinerary — take a look at how many days to spend on the island, the best time to visit and what to do in Noronha.

The trails below are inside the Marine National Park and follow all the rules in the box above: ticket, booking, one per day and a time window defined by the tide.

The most sought-after trail on the island, and rightly so. It is about 3 km to the Atalaia Aquarium, a shallow, crystal-clear natural pool where you have around 30 minutes to observe the marine life before heading back the same way. With a bit of luck, you can spot octopuses and small sharks sheltered among the rock formations. It is self-guided and ideal for any type of visitor — including families with kids.

A trail that ends at a crystal-clear natural pool nestled between the rocks. Access depends on the tide: below 0.3 m you can go on foot, without a mandatory guide; above 0.3 m, access is by swimming, with a guide. Most of the time it is done by swimming — ideal for those who feel comfortable in the water.

Small on the map, unforgettable in memory. The Abreu trail has a steep stretch where you descend holding onto a rope — an adventure unlike anything else. Self-guided and perfect for those who enjoy a little thrill.

For those who want the full version. Atalaia Long passes through the Atalaia Aquarium, continues to the Aquário da Pontinha and finishes at the Aquário da Caieira — three natural pools in a single hike. It starts and ends at different points; the final stretch is 1.7 km over rocks, done with a guide. Quite an experience for those who love real hiking.

The longest trail in the Park and every hiker's dream. Capim-Açu crosses the wildest part of the island: several viewpoints, the lighthouse, the Caverna da Sapata cave and even a small pool along the way. It starts near Baía do Sancho and ends at Baía do Leão. Set aside the day, bring water and come ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Short and rewarding, the climb up to Piquinho leads to the highest accessible viewpoint in Noronha. The final stretch requires a bit of effort — it is a small scramble between rocks — but at the top the island opens up in 360°: Morro do Pico, the sea on both sides and an endless horizon. It becomes even more magical at sunrise or sunset.

A beautiful walk that links Praia do Cachorro to Cacimba do Padre, joining the Mar de Dentro beaches in one single outing. It is always done at low tide, when the sand strip and the rocks open the passage. A lovely way to see several beaches at once, at your own pace.

If what you are looking for are natural pools to relax and snorkel, the Natural Pools Circuit is a separate experience of its own.

Each trail in Noronha has its own pace and its own reward. If you want to plan the ideal itinerary — combining the trails with the rest of your trip and respecting the tides and bookings — we can help you organize everything. Get in touch with Em Noronha on WhatsApp.