Natal Arena das Dunas: Stadium Tour & VIP Access Ticket

Summary

Walk through Arena das Dunas, see player-only zones and VIP areas with a local guide

You’ll step inside Natal’s Arena das Dunas with a local guide, exploring player-only areas like locker rooms and warm-up tunnels. Stand pitchside where World Cup legends once waited and peek into VIP boxes usually closed to fans. Feel what it’s like behind-the-scenes — and maybe carry that energy home with you.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever stood where the players wait before a match?” That’s what our guide, João, asked as we shuffled into the tunnel at Arena das Dunas in Natal. I’d seen this stadium on TV during the World Cup but never imagined I’d be wandering through the same press room where reporters once shouted questions at Pirlo and Cavani. The air still smells faintly of turf and something like fresh paint — or maybe that’s just my nerves. João pointed out a scuffed spot on the wall and joked it was from a famous Italian defender (I believed him for about two seconds). We weren’t rushed; he let us linger in the changing rooms, which felt weirdly intimate — like you could almost hear pre-game pep talks echoing off the tiles.

The VIP boxes were next. I always thought those spots would feel cold or too fancy, but honestly? There’s something kind of cozy about them when they’re empty — plush seats facing that wide green field, sunlight slanting in. Someone had left a half-empty water bottle behind; made me laugh for some reason. João shared stories about the Italy vs Uruguay match here (he called it “the bite game,” which cracked us up). You get to walk right up to the edge of the pitch — not onto it, but close enough that you can smell the grass and see where boots have torn little lines into it. I tried to imagine 40,000 people roaring above us.

We finished up in the press room. It’s quieter than you’d think — just rows of chairs and that backdrop wall covered in sponsor logos. I snapped a photo pretending to answer questions (“Yes, coach, I’ll do better next time”). On our way out, João waved at a groundskeeper who grinned back — everyone seemed genuinely proud of this place. I didn’t expect to feel much walking around a football stadium without a game on, but there’s something about seeing these behind-the-scenes spaces that sticks with you. Even now, sometimes I catch myself picturing that empty field glowing under afternoon light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arena das Dunas guided tour highlights

• Visit waiting room
• Explore press tribune
• See VIP and VVIP boxes
• Tour hospitality areas
• Walk through mixed zone
• Enter changing room
• Visit warm-up room
• Walk lawn margin
• See reserve bank
• Explore press room

Top questions

Is Arena das Dunas tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Are children or infants allowed on the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Does this tour include access to player locker rooms?

Yes, you’ll visit changing rooms used by players during major matches.

Can I take photos during the Arena das Dunas tour?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos throughout restricted areas.

Is there public transportation near Arena das Dunas?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access.

Are service animals permitted on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during your visit inside Arena das Dunas.

Do I need to pay extra fees during the tour?

No extra fees are required; all entry costs are included in your ticket.

What’s included

Your ticket covers all entry fees for exclusive access to restricted areas inside Arena das Dunas — including VIP boxes, press rooms, changing rooms and more — guided by a bilingual local expert so you can explore at your own pace without any hidden charges.