Porto de Galinhas Day Trip: Raft, Buggy & Reef Pool Adventure

Summary

Recife to Porto de Galinhas: Reef Pools, Buggy Rides & Village Life

You’ll wander through lively village streets, ride jangada boats over crystal-clear reefs, and feel the thrill of a buggy ride along endless beaches. This day trip from Recife gives you real moments—local flavors, marine life up close, and plenty of time to just relax or explore at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

The bus ride from Recife isn’t long—just enough time to watch the city fade into rolling green fields. I remember the first salty breeze sneaking in through the window as we neared Porto de Galinhas. Once we arrived, our guide led us down cobbled village streets lined with little shops selling hand-painted tiles and coconut sweets. The air smelled faintly of grilled cheese from a street vendor by the pier—locals call it queijo coalho—and you could hear kids laughing somewhere behind the souvenir stalls.

We reached the beach just as the tide was low enough for jangada boats to head out. Those wooden rafts look simple, but gliding over the shallow reef pools is something else—you can spot schools of bright fish darting below, and if you’re lucky, a sea turtle or two. Our guide explained how this place used to be a hidden port during Brazil’s slave trade era; hard to imagine now with all the families splashing in clear water and fishermen mending nets nearby.

If you’re up for more adventure, there’s always a buggy waiting by the palm trees. We zipped along stretches of sand toward Pontal de Maracaípe and Muro Alto—wind in our faces, sand everywhere (bring sunglasses!). At one stop, we visited Projeto Hippocampus where tiny seahorses float in glass tanks—a quiet spot that’s easy to miss if you don’t know about it. Some folks went diving instead; they came back raving about how friendly the fish were down there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Porto de Galinhas Village and Beach

• Bus to Porto de Galinhas and village walk
• Explore reefs, optional Jangada tour, buggy ride, and beach activities

Top questions

Is swimming safe for beginners at Porto de Galinhas?

Yes! The reef pools are calm and shallow during low tide—great for all levels. Just check with your guide about current conditions.

Are entrance fees for attractions included?

No, entrance fees for optional activities like diving or visiting Projeto Hippocampus aren’t included. Your guide can help arrange these if you want.

What should I bring for this tour?

Packing sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, sandals or comfy shoes is smart. A towel comes in handy too—especially after a swim or buggy ride.

What’s included

Your roundtrip transfer from most Recife hotels is covered, plus a knowledgeable local guide who knows all the best spots and stories around Porto de Galinhas.