Itamaracá Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Itamaracá, including attractions, food, accommodation, and transportation options, to plan a fantastic trip.


Introduction to Itamaracá

Itamaracá is a small but beautiful island located in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Known for its stunning beaches and lush vegetation, Itamaracá is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Itamaracá, including the best attractions, food and drink scene, accommodation options, transportation, and safety tips.

List of Places to Visit in Itamaracá

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Forte Orange

Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, Forte Orange is a well-preserved fortress located on the northern tip of the island. Visitors can explore the fort’s history through its informative exhibits, and enjoy stunning views of the ocean from the top.

Casa Correia

This charming museum is located in a colonial-style house that dates back to the 18th century. Casa Correia showcases local art, artifacts, and furniture, providing visitors with an insight into life on the island during colonial times.

Natural Attractions of Itamaracá: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Praia do Forte

Praia do Forte is one of the most popular beaches in Itamaracá and is known for its clear waters, white sand, and surrounding coconut palms. Visitors can also enjoy an array of water sports activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Coroa do Avião

This small island off the coast of Itamaracá is home to a beautiful natural reef, which offers amazing snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Visitors can also relax on the island’s golden sand and explore the local fishing village.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Itamaracá

Parque Estadual de Itamaracá

This protected area covers over 18 hectares of beautiful natural forest and is the perfect place for hiking and biking. The park offers various trails of different lengths, and visitors can spot a wide variety of flora and fauna as they explore.

Best Things to Do in Itamaracá: Activities and Tours

Mangrove Tour

One of the most exciting things to do in Itamaracá is to take a guided tour of the island’s mangroves. These tours offer an opportunity to observe the unique ecosystem up-close, and visitors can also spot a variety of birds and wildlife.

Dolphin Watching Tour

Itamaracá is well-known for its resident population of spinner dolphins. Visitors can take a boat tour and watch these friendly mammals swim and play in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Itamaracá

Day Activity
1 Explore Forte Orange and the surrounding beaches
2 Take a mangrove tour, visit Casa Correia and Praia do Sossego
3 Dolphin watching tour and spend the afternoon at Praia do Forte
4 Visit Coroa do Avião and nearby fishing village, go scuba diving or snorkeling
5 Rent a bike and explore Parque Estadual de Itamaracá
6 Relax on the beautiful Praia do Xaréu, known for its calm waters and golden sand
7 Enjoy a night out in the town of Itamaracá, experiencing the local culture and cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Itamaracá

Must-Try Dishes

Peixe Frito

This traditional Brazilian dish consists of fried fish, served with farofa (toasted manioc flour) and vinaigrette sauce. Itamaracá is known for its fresh seafood, and Peixe Frito is a must-try dish for any seafood lover.

Tapioca

Tapioca is a typical Brazilian delicacy made from cassava flour and filled with ingredients such as cheese, coconut, or chocolate. It’s a popular street food in Itamaracá and is sure to satisfy your sweet or savory cravings.

Local Beverages

Caipirinha

This famous Brazilian cocktail is made from cachaça, lime, and sugar, and is a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot day in Itamaracá. Visitors can choose from a variety of flavors, including passionfruit, pineapple, and strawberry.

Cerveja

Brazil is well-known for its beer culture, and Itamaracá is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a cold cerveja (beer) at a local bar or beachside kiosk, while soaking in the island’s stunning views.

Where to Stay in Itamaracá: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Itamaracá offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, visitors can take their pick from the following suggestions:

  • Casa Grand Hotel
  • Ilha de Itamaracá Praia Hotel
  • Pousada Ciranda
  • Pousada dos Golfinhos

What to Buy in Itamaracá: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Itamaracá can bring home some unique souvenirs and products, including:

  • Handmade pottery and crafts from local artisans
  • Local sweets and pastries, such as brigadeiro and bolo de rolo
  • Brazilian bikinis and beachwear from local shops and boutiques

Local Culture and Customs of Itamaracá

Itamaracá is a vibrant and welcoming community, and visitors are sure to feel at home during their stay. However, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress appropriately when visiting religious or cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Itamaracá

The best time to visit Itamaracá is from September to December when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. This season offers the perfect conditions for outdoor activities and beachside relaxation.

Do’s and Don’ts of Itamaracá

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks, especially fresh seafood and cachaça-based cocktails.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect from the strong sun.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting cultural sites.

Don’t:

  • Swim outside of designated areas or without a lifeguard present.
  • Leave valuables unattended on the beaches or in public areas.
  • Consume tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Itamaracá

While Itamaracá is a relatively safe place to visit, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions against theft and petty crime. Visitors should also be cautious when swimming in the ocean and follow all safety regulations posted on the beaches.

Health in Itamaracá

It’s recommended that visitors ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Itamaracá. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of mosquito-borne diseases, including Zika, and take appropriate measures to protect themselves from insect bites.

Getting to Itamaracá: Transportation Options and Logistics

Itamaracá is accessible by road and by air. Visitors can fly to Recife International Airport and then take a shuttle or taxi to Itamaracá, a journey of approximately one hour. Alternatively, buses run regularly from Recife to Itamaracá, and there are also ferry services available.

Airports Near Itamaracá

  • Recife International Airport (REC) - approximately 70km from Itamaracá.

Bus Stations Near Itamaracá

  • Recife Bus Station.
  • Janga Bus Station.

Other Options

  • Ferry services run regularly from Recife to Itamaracá, with a journey time of around one hour.

How to Get Around in Itamaracá

Itamaracá is a relatively small island, and most attractions and beaches can be easily reached by taxi, bicycle, or on foot. Visitors can also rent a car or motorbike to explore the island at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Itamaracá: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Itamaracá may wish to explore some of the nearby attractions and destinations, including:

  • Recife - a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Olinda - a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene.
  • Porto de Galinhas - a picturesque beach town famous for its crystal-clear waters and excellent diving opportunities.

Conclusion

Itamaracá is a beautiful and welcoming destination that offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the island’s history and culture, or enjoy some exciting outdoor adventures, Itamaracá is sure to exceed your expectations. Plan your trip today and discover all that this fantastic island has to offer!

One of the island's many beaches. One of the island's many beaches.