Created in 1977, the Dunes Park of Natal (Parque estadual das Dunas de Natal) was the first place of environment preservation implanted in the state.
The park has an area of about 1.200 hectares and is situated between the city of Natal and the road 'Via costeira' which goes along the ocean.
It is considered as the second biggest urban park of Brazil after the Tijuca forest in Rio de Janeiro.
It possesses a large area of 'Mata Atlântica' and its ecosystem of dunes is very rich, with a fauna and a biological and ecological valuable flora, a native vegetation and animals, monkeys, spiders, huge ants and birds.
Since 1993, it is considered as a Humanity Environment Heritage by UNESCO, because it is part of the Reserve of Biosphere of Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest.
The entrance of the park is situated at the end of the avenue Alexandrino de Alencar, in the neighborhood Tirol, in a park called 'Bosque dos Namorados' - 'Parque das Dunas', where families enjoys, people go just for relaxation or to see cultural exhibitions.
How to come : Av. Salgado Filho and av. Alexandrino de Alencar until the end of the avenue
Its scientifico-environmental potential is used for:
* The research (geology, geomorphology)
* the education
* the leisure activities. Routes and educational games(sets).
* The ecological tourism
Routes with the park guides go until the dunes.
Among the most known walks:
- Ubaia-Doce, 4.400 m for well prepared persons. (2:30)
- Peroba, 2.400 m for Teenagers and Adults. (1:30)
- Perobinha, 800 m for children and sedentary adults. (40mn)
Areia Preta e Mãe Luiza
Where to sleep
Where to eat and drink
The places for sports, leisurex and services
