Genipabu Beach: Dune Buggy Rides & Full Day Tour from Natal

Summary

Genipabu’s wild dunes, calm waters, buggy thrills and a few surprises

You’ll feel the energy of Genipabu’s wild dunes as soon as you arrive — try a camel ride or dune buggy adventure (or just watch), then unwind by calm lagoons with time to swim or nap in the sun. With hotel pickup included and a local guide to show you around, it’s easy to just let go for a day.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing along in the bus when someone up front started humming forró — I didn’t know the words but it got stuck in my head anyway. The air felt thick with salt as we rolled out of Natal. Our guide, Ana, pointed out the old Aquarium as we passed; she said you could stop if you wanted to see the turtles. I almost did, but honestly I was too impatient for sand and sun. You could smell sunscreen and that faint whiff of engine oil from the buggies waiting ahead — kind of weirdly comforting.

The first sight of Genipabu beach is one of those moments that just sits with you. The sand is so pale it almost hurts your eyes, and then you hear these little shouts from people zipping over dunes in those bright dune buggies. We watched for a bit before Ana asked if anyone wanted to try a camel ride — I laughed because I didn’t expect camels here at all (she told me later they’re not native, obviously). Some folks went for it; I just dug my toes into the hot sand and let myself do nothing for a while. There’s this hush between the wind gusts that makes you feel small but happy.

I did end up taking a buggy ride after lunch — not gonna lie, my heart was pounding half from nerves and half from excitement. The driver joked about “com emoção ou sem emoção” (with or without thrills), and everyone shouted “com!” so off we went. The dunes are like moving mountains; you can feel them shift under the tires, and there’s this quick drop where your stomach flips. It’s loud and silly and over too fast. Afterward we just sat by one of those little lagoons Ana called an oasis — water warm as bathwater, which I still think about on cold days back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day tour to Genipabu beach

• Stop at Natal Aquarium (optional)
• Relax or explore Genipabu beach
• Optional buggy rides on dunes

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Genipabu tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included.

Are buggy rides at Genipabu part of the tour price?

No, buggy rides are optional and cost extra on site.

Can I visit the Natal Aquarium during this tour?

Yes, there is an optional stop at Natal Aquarium at the start.

Is this Genipabu day trip wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

How long does the full day Genipabu tour last?

The tour lasts most of the day with morning pickup and afternoon return.

Are meals or drinks included on this tour?

No meals or drinks are included; bring cash for food at local spots.

Do I need to bring anything special for Genipabu beach?

A swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and some cash for extras are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable hotel pickup in Natal by air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide leading throughout; all transport between stops is covered so you can focus on enjoying Genipabu’s beaches and dunes before being dropped back at your hotel in the afternoon.