The ecological sanctuary is a reserve of 60 hectares of the 'Atlantic Rain Forrest' ecosystem (mata atlantica). The place was created in 1991 by the british 'David Hasset' with the intention to protect the long line of cliff that covers the dolphins bay.
From two belvederes made on the top of the cliff a fantastic panoramic view from the dolphins bay and Madeiro Beach can be observed.
It is an important place of conservation of the fauna and the flora of the region. It also contains a center of research and studies, having an exchanging program with some universities in England.
The headquarter of 'Projeto Tamar' in Pipa is placed at the Sanctuary.
www.projetotamar.org.br
There are 16 trails offering attractions and different difficulties for adults and children. Some of these routes bring you to magnificent points of view on the sea, cliffs and magnificent beaches 'do Canto' and 'do Madeiro'.
To visit the Santuário, a fee of 5 reais per person must be payed.
Municipality : Tibau do Sul Distance from Natal : 84 km
How to come : BR101 jusqu'à Goianinha, puis la RN003
The cliffs are occupied by an intense strip of native vegetation called 'Atlantic Rain Forest' (Mata Atlantica).
This primitive vegetation occupied previously all the Brazilian coast, from the state of Rio Grande do Norte until Santa Catarina.
It has been destroyed little by little by the hand of the man and remains present by small strips on the coast, representing 7% of the initial area.
The difficult access protects the beach from tourism. It is stopping-off place of the walkers coming from Pipa. An access is possible from the ecological Sanctuary park situated on the cliff.