Porto de Galinhas is a complete experience, where lush nature meets vibrant culture to create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are looking for a destination that combines stunning natural beauty, golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere, this place is Porto de Galinhas! Famous for its breathtaking natural pools, the quaint fishing village has transformed into one of Brazil’s most paradisiacal destinations. But the beauty of the place is not only in the beaches. You can also venture on a hike through mangroves and areas of Atlantic Forest.
Outeiro Ecological Trail
Pontal de Maracaípe is one of the most beautiful places in Porto de Galinhas, where the river meets the sea. To reach this paradise, you must walk along the Outeiro ecological trail, more commonly known as Oiteiro. The area is still little explored but holds much history and preserved nature. It’s an incredible trip to get off the beaten path!
Everything starts in the center of Porto de Galinhas. The native guide will provide all instructions about the trip and give you the safety equipment. You will pedal the entire route until you reach the beginning of the trail, which starts within the private reserve of Oiteiro.
The reserve is a natural refuge of great importance to the region. It is surrounded by sugarcane fields that serve as shelter for many species of animals that live there or use the area as a feeding and resting point.
Crossing the Mangrove
When crossing the Maracaípe River, you will enter a mangrove area at Pontal de Maracaípe. The path continues with your feet in the mud. Depending on the tide, the water will be ankle or knee-deep throughout the journey. The vibrant nature of the mangrove will be all around you, with aerial roots, crabs, guaiamuns, xiés, fish, and much more!
The guide makes several stops to explain the entire ecosystem of the place, its fauna, flora, ecological, and historical importance. Besides environmental knowledge, you will learn about some historical aspects, such as the slave context that dominated the region during the sugarcane cycle.
Panoramic View
After crossing the mangrove, the trail continues through the restinga and remnants of the Atlantic Forest until you reach the Nossa Senhora do Outeiro Church. This is the highest point in Porto de Galinhas, offering a view of Pontal de Maracaípe and Serrambi and the meeting of the river with the sea. The view will leave anyone in awe.
Take the opportunity to capture all the moments. And, of course, choose a shady spot to rest and recover your energy, because there is still much trail ahead!
Historical Rescue
Back on the trail, the walk continues towards the Maracaípe River. Along the way, you will visit a historic flour house. A place that values and rescues Afro-Brazilian culture, the flour house is an experience in itself.
You will also have the opportunity to understand the entire manual process of transforming cassava into flour, a practice that spans generations. There is even time to taste a good tapioca. Enjoy!
River Bath
After another stretch of walking, you can dive into a super refreshing river bath. It’s time to wash your soul and contemplate the view. There is even a hammock waiting for you by the river for a relaxing moment.
Sunset
Don’t think it’s over! After the trail in the Oiteiro reserve, the guide will take you to see a centenary baobab tree. Present throughout almost all of Northeast Brazil, the baobab is a tree of African origin. It was planted in Brazil by slaves who considered it a sacred tree, called the tree of life. The baobab enchants with its grandeur and majestic form!
Next to this baobab, you will have a sensational view of Porto de Galinhas and still contemplate a beautiful sunset. Enjoy every moment to connect with nature. And don’t forget to take some photos with the centenary baobab because this moment needs to be recorded!
Stay Alert!
Pontal de Maracaípe is 10 kilometers from Porto de Galinhas, and the trail is 5 kilometers long, round trip. The entire route takes about 4 hours. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, water, a towel, dry clothes, swimwear, snacks, and any usual medications. Ah, it’s best to go in sneakers. So don’t forget! With your backpack ready, just enjoy!
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They loved it and you will too.