Natal tours

Things to do in Natal

Natal offers a warm greeting with its sunny shores and the rhythmic pulse of Ponta Negra beach, embodying a city that marches to its own rhythm. With a local guide, your exploration of Natal evolves from simple sightseeing into a deeper dive into its vibrant culture. As you navigate the bustling Alecrim market, the aromas of fresh tropical produce mingle with the lively exchanges of vendors. A private tour in Natal allows for seamless access to the historic Forte dos Reis Magos, where the Atlantic breeze seems to carry whispers from the past. This isn't merely a tour; it's your window into Natal as seen through the eyes of its insiders. Whether meandering across the Genipabu dunes or indulging in a culinary tour that features the area's finest caipirinhas, your guide is your link to the city's hidden gems. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Natal. Explore Natal your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Natal tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Natal for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Ride with a licensed buggy driver over the Genipabu dunes, cool off in Lagoa de Jacumã, and try the aerobunda zipline if you like. Or slow it down with short trails in Parque das Dunas to spot marmosets and birds with a biologist guide. Day trip tours: Time the tides for a catamaran out to the Parrachos de Maracajaú, where you can snorkel above coral gardens and have a simple seafood lunch back in the fishing village. Another favourite is a full day in Pipa for cliff-top walks between Praia do Amor and Baía dos Golfinhos and a late swim at Madeiro. History tours: Explore Forte dos Reis Magos and learn how the star-shaped fortress guarded the Potengi River, then continue to the Trampolim da Vitória Museum in Parnamirim to trace Natal’s WWII role as the “Trampoline to Victory.” In the Ribeira district, your guide can open the doors of Igreja do Galo and Teatro Alberto Maranhão to talk architecture and local stories. Areas are spread out along the coast, and buses run but can be slow; taxis, ride-hailing, and dune buggies are often simpler between beaches and neighbourhoods. You can also book chauffeured tours with private transportation; ask your local guide what’s most convenient. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Natal inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Imagine strolling through Natal with a local guide who knows the city inside out. A private walking tour is your chance to explore at your own pace and dive into vibrant neighborhoods that spark your curiosity. - Ponta Negra: Known for its beautiful beach and the famous Morro do Careca, this area is perfect for families and those who love sun and surf. The lively boardwalk offers plenty of spots to enjoy fresh seafood and local crafts. - Ribeira: Immerse yourself in Natal's cultural scene with a visit to Ribeira. This historic neighborhood is home to theaters, art galleries, and charming colonial architecture, ideal for cultural tourists and those seeking meaningful connections with the local arts. - Petrópolis: With its tree-lined streets and elegant homes, Petrópolis offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It's great for multi-generational groups looking to explore local cafes and boutique shops while enjoying a quieter side of the city. Day trip ideas from Natal From Natal, mix beach towns, dunes, and reef pools with short drives so your day trips feel varied and simple, and your tour can balance swim stops with scenic viewpoints and local food. - Genipabu dunes and lagoons: ride with a licensed buggy driver over tall sand hills, cool off in calm freshwater, and try sandboarding, which suits families and photo lovers who want fun without a long drive. - Pipa and Tibau do Sul: cliff-top views, turtle and dolphin spots, and protected coves give you a relaxed beach day, and your tour can time the tides for easier walks and add a stop in the village for fresh seafood. - Maracajaú reefs: clear water over coral heads makes easy snorkelling on a half-day boat run, good for beginners and kids, and your tour can include gear and an extra swim in a nearby lagoon. - São Miguel do Gostoso: wide beaches and steady wind suit kitesurfers and people who like space to wander, with simple cafés by the sand, and your tour can plan around wind and tide so the shoreline is at its best. - Galinhos peninsula: salt flats, mangroves, and a quiet village reached by boat or 4x4 create a slower day, ideal for nature watchers and photographers, and your tour can pair a short boat ride with a walk to the lighthouse point. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Natal most travellers miss.