FERNANDO DE NORONHA  
BRIEFING | DIVING | USEFUL INFORMATION | HISTORY | 
   
 
  Important Facts   
 
Complete name: Fernando de Noronha
Area: 18,4 Km2 (11,4 sq miles) Population: 1.500
Government: Federal Republic Religion: Roman Catholic
Language: Portuguese Time Zone: GMT –2hs
Visas: Citizens from neighboring countries do not need a visa. USA citizens do require one. Check at your local Brazilian Embassy about other nationalities. Electricity: 220V
Origins: Brazilian Special Precautions: Sun burns
International Phone Code: 55 - Area Code: 81 Industries: Tourism, fishing.
Cost
Currency: Real (R$)
Dining: 
Budget: US$ 3-5
Moderate: US$ 5-10
Top end: US$ 10-25 		Lodging: 
Budget: US$ 37
Moderate: US$ 67
Top End: US$ 100-400
Note: Breakfast is included on inn rates.
 
   
  Best time to Travel   
   
 
The weather in Noronha is excellent and it is possible to dive year round. From March to June, diving is done on both sides of the island. From July to October, the South side conditions are more difficult. In the summer (December to March) the seas are rough but diving is still possible. The second semester of the year is when the dry season takes place.
In order to preserve the environment there is a maximum number of 420 tourists allowed on the island at the same time. Try to avoid traveling during December to February, since you are unlikely to find an open space.
  
   
  Transportation  
     
 

Numerous flights connect Brazil’s major cities with the rest of the world. Once in the country you will need to travel to Natal, Fortaleza or Recife, which are the connection stops for Noronha. Flights are available everyday. The two airlines that connect these points are Trip and Nordeste.

Transportation (within Noronha)

Nowadays there is a public bus that goes from Baia Sueste to Porto Santo António, with stops along the way. This service starts at 5:00 in the morning until 10:00 in the evening. The cost is $1.

You can also use taxis. They are funny looking buggies with a list of fixed fares. Renting one costs between $33 and $50 per day. The cost is the same with or without a driver.

Dive operators will take you from and back to your inn after diving. Renting a buggy, however, is worthwhile since it gives you the chance to explore the whole island. Another option is renting a motorbike for a daily rate of $17.
Hiking is excellent in the island. Many of the beaches are conveniently connected with each other.