Northeast Coast, Brazil

Brazil's Northeast coast strings Salvador's African-Brazilian capoeira culture, Recife and Olinda's colonial old towns, the Lençóis Maranhenses sand dunes hiding rainwater lagoons, and the Praia da Pipa beach 80km south of Natal.

Highlights

When to Visit

Sep-Mar

Dry season with Lençóis Maranhenses lagoons at peak (June-September is the best window), Salvador beaches at high season, and Pipa surf at consistent swell.

Feb

Carnival peaks the four days before Ash Wednesday with Salvador the country's biggest street carnival, Olinda's giant-puppet parades, and Recife's frevo dance.

Apr-Aug

Wettest months with afternoon storms, Lençóis Maranhenses lagoons at peak (rain-fed), São João festivals in mid-June across Caruaru and Campina Grande.

Jun-Jul

São João celebrations through the Northeast with quadrilha dancing, bonfires, and forró music filling Caruaru, Campina Grande, and small towns across the sertão interior.