park · Natal, RN
Parque das Dunas
Created in 1977, Parque Estadual Dunas de Natal protects 1,172 hectares of dunes covered in Atlantic Forest right in the middle of the city. Visits center on Bosque dos Namorados, where the interpretive trails begin.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque das Dunas
Parque das Dunas, as locals call Parque Estadual Dunas de Natal, is a large stretch of dunes covered in Atlantic Forest in the middle of the city. It runs along Via Costeira, between the sea and the neighborhoods, and is one of the largest urban parks in Brazil.
Created in 1977, it was the first protected area in Rio Grande do Norte. It covers 1,172 hectares and is part of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO. It is run by Idema, the state environmental agency.
The area open to the public is Bosque dos Namorados, in the Tirol neighborhood. There you will find the visitor center, a jogging track under the trees, a playground, an amphitheater and a picnic area. It is a relaxed, shady outing, good for families with children.
The rest of the park can only be explored on the interpretive trails, always accompanied by the park's own guides. There are three: Perobinha, the easiest and recommended for children, Peroba and Ubaia Doce. They cross soft sand, climb up and down dunes in the middle of the forest and may offer sea views. They require advance booking and a minimum number of people per group.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One to two hours is enough to walk around Bosque dos Namorados and do one of the guided trails.
Best time
Early in the morning, year-round, when the sun is still weak and the forest is cooler; the sandy trails get tiring in the midday heat.
How to get there
The entrance is at Bosque dos Namorados, on Avenida Alexandrino de Alencar, in the Tirol neighborhood, near downtown Natal. You can go by car, taxi, ride-hailing app or a city bus that runs along the avenue.
Tip
Book the trail in advance and wear closed sneakers, light clothes, sunscreen and bring a bottle of water: part of the path is soft sand and climbs the dunes.
A look at the place
Parque das Dunas in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque das Dunas
Is there an entrance fee for Parque das Dunas?
Yes, there is a small, symbolic fee. Some groups are exempt; check the rules with Idema before you go.
Do I need to book the trails at Parque das Dunas?
Yes. The interpretive trails are led by park staff and require advance booking, with a minimum number of people per group.
What are the trails at Parque das Dunas?
There are three: Perobinha, the easiest and good for children, Peroba and Ubaia Doce. All of them cross dunes covered in Atlantic Forest.
Where is the entrance to Parque das Dunas?
At Bosque dos Namorados, on Avenida Alexandrino de Alencar, in the Tirol neighborhood, near downtown Natal.
What is there at Bosque dos Namorados?
A visitor center, jogging track, playground, amphitheater and picnic area, all in the shade of native trees. Check hours on Idema's website.