Fernando de Noronha
Fernando de Noronha is a pristine volcanic archipelago and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned as one of Brazil's premier diving destinations. Its protected marine park status ensures an incredibly healthy ecosystem with dramatic underwater landscapes, including tunnels, canyons, and volcanic rock formations. The area is most famous for its resident population of spinner dolphins, often seen in the thousands, and its crystal-clear waters that offer unparalleled visibility, making it a photographer's dream.
Diving conditions are exceptional year-round, with warm waters and visibility that can exceed 50 meters. Divers flock to Fernando de Noronha for its abundant marine life, including frequent sightings of reef sharks, lemon sharks, green sea turtles, and massive schools of fish. The limited number of tourists allowed on the island preserves its exclusive feel and pristine environment. For divers seeking a unique, remote, and ecologically rich experience with world-class conditions, Fernando de Noronha is an unforgettable destination.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
The Corvette Ipiranga V17 wreck is arguably the most famous dive site. This Brazilian Navy vessel was intentionally scuttled in 1987 and now rests perfectly upright at around 60 meters. It's an advanced dive due to the depth, but its impressive size and the marine life it attracts, including large groupers and sharks, make it a bucket-list dive for experienced divers visiting Fernando de Noronha, Brazil.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Among the key sites, the Corvette V17 wreck is famous for advanced divers. For a vibrant reef experience, Laje Dois Irmãos is popular for its rich marine life. A less-frequented but spectacular site is Pontal do Norte, which offers thrilling drift dives with chances to see larger pelagics. Exploring these different sites provides a complete picture of the incredible diving available in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Water temperatures in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, are consistently warm and pleasant year-round. Temperatures typically range from 26°C (79°F) in the slightly cooler months of August and September to a warm 29°C (84°F) between January and June. This tropical warmth means you can dive comfortably without needing a thick wetsuit, even on deeper dives.
When is the best time to visit Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
The best time for diving in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, is from August to December. During these months, the sea is calmer, particularly on the "inside sea" (Mar de Dentro) where most dive sites are located. This period offers the best visibility and surface conditions. The rainy season runs from March to July, which can create rougher seas and slightly reduce visibility.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Underwater visibility in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, is legendary and consistently excellent. During the prime dive season from August to December, it is common to experience visibility of 30 to 50 meters (100 to 165 feet). Even outside of this peak period, visibility rarely drops below 20 meters (65 feet). This crystal-clear water is one of the main attractions for divers visiting the archipelago.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
While Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, doesn't have major manta or whale shark aggregations, it does have important seasonal events. From July to November, you have a chance to see migrating humpback whales. The main year-round attraction is the massive resident pod of spinner dolphins, often seen at Baía dos Golfinhos. Lemon sharks and reef sharks are also present throughout the year.
What marine life can I expect to see in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Divers can expect a rich variety of marine life. The area is famous for its large resident population of spinner dolphins. Common sightings include green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, reef sharks, and lemon sharks. You'll also encounter large schools of jacks and snappers, plus moray eels, stingrays, and an abundance of colorful reef fish.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
With water temperatures consistently between 26°C and 29°C (79-84°F), a thick wetsuit is unnecessary. Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm shorty or a full-length 3mm wetsuit. Some divers may even opt for just a rash guard, especially during the warmest months. For deeper dives or multiple dives per day, a 3mm full suit is recommended for optimal comfort.
How do I get to Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Access to Fernando de Noronha is by air. Flights depart daily from the Brazilian mainland cities of Recife (REC) and Natal (NAT) to the island's airport (FEN). Upon arrival, you must pay a mandatory environmental preservation tax, which depends on your length of stay. Taxis and rental buggies are available for transport on the island.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil?
Due to strict environmental regulations and the close proximity of all dive sites, there are no liveaboards operating in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. All diving is shore-based, with local operators running daily boat trips. Visitors stay in local inns called "pousadas." This model helps manage tourism impact and ensures all dive operations are conducted from the main island.