Audio Guide of Fernando de Noronha - Environmental Protection Area

Access is via daily flights to Noronha Airport (FEN) from Recife or Natal; the urban area and the EPA beaches (such as Cachorro and Conceição) are open to the public 24 hours a day. However, to enter the island you must process your permit and present proof of payment of the environmental fee upon landing.

To enter the island you must pay the Environmental Preservation Fee (TPA), the cost of which depends on the length of your stay and is around 97 R$ per day. You can — and I recommend — pay it in advance on the official Government website to avoid long queues at the airport.

To truly enjoy the 'Emerald of the Atlantic', hike its trails and dive without rushing, 5 to 7 full days are recommended. Less time will leave you feeling like you missed the magic of the sunsets and the marine life.

Noronha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was a former prison and strategic military base before becoming an ecological sanctuary. It is vital for the breeding of seabirds and turtles, and is home to a large resident population of spinner dolphins.

If you're looking for the famous 'swimming pool' sea for diving with perfect visibility, travel from August to November. If you're into surfing and looking for big waves, the 'swell' season runs from December to March, although there may be a bit more rain.

The volcanic terrain and dirt roads make accessibility a challenge across much of the island. However, in the EPA area (urban center) you can get around by buggy and some beaches are adapting walkways, although it's recommended to check specific conditions before going.

You can't leave without crossing into the Marine National Park (requires a separate entrance fee) to see Baía do Sancho, frequently voted the best beach in the world. Also visit Forte dos Remédios at sunset for an unbeatable panoramic view.

Bring cash in reais, as the internet signal often fails and card machines may not work, and ATMs are scarce. Also bring your own basic snorkeling gear and high-factor sunscreen to save on the high local prices.