This isolated island in the Atlantic Ocean shares features only with just a few other islands in the whole world. Its amazing beaches are the most beautiful in all of Brazil’s territory, only comparable with the ones in the Caribbean or the Far East.

Its underwater landscapes are unique. Turtles, dolphins, stingrays, giant groupers and small sharks are some of the highlights for divers coming to this small paradise.

Fernando de Noronha archipelago is made up of a group of volcanic islands, just 3° South of the Equator and 340 Km (211 miles) from Recife, in the state of Pernambuco. Islands, islets and rocks make a total of 21 formations. The main island has an area of 18,4 sq Km (11,4 sq miles), 10 km long and 3,5 km on its widest part. It represents 91% of the archipelago with a perimeter of 60 Km (37 miles)

Marine life is extremely rich due to its geographical location far from the coast and on the way of the South Equator current. Climate is another positive factor. A total of 168 families of mollusks, 72 crustacean species and an incredible amount of native and migratory fish inhabit the area.

In 1988, an approximate of 70% of the archipelago was declared National Marine Park. The objective was to preserve the underwater and land environment. Native and migratory birds are registered as well as marine life. The behavior and reproduction of the spinner dolphin (stenella longirostris) is researched, as well as sharks and the reproduction of crustaceans. There is also the Tamar Project which involves sea turtles. These topics are discussed every night on a daily basis at the project visitors center. There is a daily tax of $10 to support and preserve the island and a second tax of $3,5 for snorkeling or diving.