How to get to Fernando de Noronha: flights and tips

Fernando de Noronha is an isolated archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic, hundreds of kilometers from the mainland. The only way to get there is by plane — there is no ferry or regular boat crossing for tourists. Below, everything you need to know to plan your arrival: where the flights depart from, how tickets work, the mandatory fees and what to do as soon as you land.

Commercial flights to Noronha depart mainly from Recife (REC) and from São Paulo (Guarulhos). Three airlines operate the route: Gol flies from São Paulo (Guarulhos) and from Recife to the island; Latam flies from São Paulo; and Azul flies from Recife. Wherever you're coming from, the way is to connect in one of these two cities. Important: Natal has no direct flight to Noronha — from Natal, the connection is made through Recife. The flight from Recife to the island lasts about 1 hour; from São Paulo, being farther away, the direct flight is naturally longer.

Flights to Noronha are limited, because the island controls the flow of visitors. That's why they sell out quickly and get much more expensive in the high season — December to February, July and long holidays. Buying in advance is the difference between paying a fair price and facing an expensive ticket. It's worth tracking the dates from the airlines that operate the route and booking as soon as your dates are set.

When you arrive, you pay the TPA (Environmental Preservation Fee, charged per day of stay) and you also need the National Marine Park entrance ticket, required to access most beaches and trails. You can pay everything online before boarding, which speeds up arrival. See the step by step at Fernando de Noronha Fees.

The island is small, so getting around is quick. There are a few options — buggy, hotel transfer and even bus (there's a stop right in front of the airport) —, but the taxi is always the fastest alternative: in less than 7 minutes you're already at your inn. On arrival, time is precious — it's not worth saving on the taxi. The other options are great for the following days, once you've already got your feet in the sand.

• Book flight and accommodation in advance — both are limited on the island and the best windows sell out first.
• Check the baggage allowance of your ticket before boarding.
• Bring photo ID (national ID or passport).
• Arrive with your itinerary already pre-planned to make the most of each day — tours and trails also have limited slots.

From here, what changes the game is the itinerary. See what to do in Fernando de Noronha with ready-made itineraries of 3, 4 and 5 days, and check the best time to visit Fernando de Noronha to match your trip with what you want to experience — diving, calm beaches, surfing or wildlife.