Natal Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil Travel Guide
Bus routes crisscross the city, linking points. As an example, buses connect Ponta Negra to the historic center and other neighborhoods. Google Maps provides reasonably accurate bus routes and schedules in Natal. Local bus line websites might offer more detailed route information, but these are frequently in Portuguese.
The main bus terminal (Terminal Rodoviário) serves as the hub for long-distance coaches. Several urban terminals, such as Terminal de Ponta Negra, Terminal do Alecrim, and Terminal da Cidade Alta, act as transfer points for city buses.
Connects residential areas, city center, and tourist zones like Ponta Negra.
Flat fare (R$ 4.50-5.00), cash accepted directly by collector or driver.
Limited accessibility for mobility challenges due to older buses and uneven sidewalks.
Terminal de Ponta Negra.
Terminal do Alecrim.
Terminal da Cidade Alta.
Terminal Rodoviário.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and often faster alternatives to public transport. Licensed taxis are typically white, with a red license plate and a visible meter (Taxímetro). They often display a company name or logo. You can hail taxis on the street, find them at designated taxi stands, or call them. Uber and 99 (a popular Brazilian app) are widely available. Both apps allow in-app payment via credit card or cash payment directly to the driver.
Widely available, transparent pricing.
Often competitive with Uber, popular locally.
Higher airport rates, but metered for city trips.
For independent exploration, various rental options exist. Car rental offers flexibility for exploring the region around Natal. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for general tourist use. Some hotels or beachfront kiosks in Ponta Negra may offer bicycle rentals, but Natal does not have city-wide public bike-sharing programs. Always check requirements and ensure thorough inspection of vehicles.
Less frequent for tourists; valid motorcycle license needed. Traffic can be challenging.
Caution advised.
Available at some hotels or beachfront kiosks in Ponta Negra.
No city-wide programs.
Be aware of road conditions and traffic for all rentals.
Helmets recommended for bikes.
Pedestrian-friendly areas and walking routes contribute to city exploration. The beachfront promenade in Ponta Negra is excellent for walking, jogging, and cycling. The streets behind the beach are also walkable, with many restaurants and shops. Parque das Dunas offers designated walking trails for nature lovers. The historic center can be explored on foot, although some areas might require more vigilance, especially after business hours.
Avoid less-developed or poorly lit areas, particularly after dark.
Historic Center can become deserted and less safe after dark.
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Natal offers some unique transportation experiences that contribute to the adventure. Natal does not possess formal hop-on-hop-off bus services like major global cities. However, many tour operators offer organized bus or van tours to major attractions and for day trips (e.g., Genipabu, Maracajaú, Pipa). These tours present a convenient way to see multiple sites without concern for logistics. Water transportation is only available to short crossings or recreational boat trips.
The most unique and popular local transport experience in Genipabu. Always with a certified driver.
Choose a thrilling ride ("com emoção") or a gentler one ("sem emoção").
A required experience for a lot of visitors to Natal.
For quick trips, ride-sharing apps like Uber or 99 offer convenience and see-through pricing. Always confirm your driver's details (name, car model, license plate) before entering the vehicle.
Dune buggy tours are a quintessential Natal experience not to be missed!
