As a volcanic archipelago of Brazil, tourists can expect an experience full of magnificence and wonder of nature’s beauty in Fernando de Noronha. But before you get your bags packed and head to the airport, make sure that you equip yourself first with necessary information about the city.

When to Visit the Island

The best time to visit the island is between September and March; this is when the season is dry and the sun is up. It is during this period too when the beaches are its best; the sea is calm to dive, and waters are rough to surf.

The downside though of being on the island during this time is that this is also considered a peak season – prices are high and tourists are many. Thus, if you are on a budget, off-peak starts from April to August; when the rain starts to fall and visitors are few.

What to Wear

Because Fernando de Noronha’s climate is tropical, with waters that are warm, visitors can enjoy wearing light clothes while exploring the island. Eyewash, sandals, and sunblocks are not to be forgotten, too.

Currency

Like the rest of the cities in Brazil, the currency in Fernando de Noronha is a Brazilian Dollar. Coins are of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents denomination, while banknotes are in 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 Brazilian Real.

If you are bringing a US Dollar, the average exchange rate per dollar is 2.14950 BRL (Brazilian Real). A Euro can be exchanged for 2.57571 BRL, while a Pound Sterling for 3.73196 BRL.

Making a Call

Until 1975, the island of Fernando de Noronha has no telephone system. With the initiative of then Governor Ruperto Clodoaldo Pinto, the archipelago finally got its telephone registry which at first had a very bad system. Slowly improving it through the years, communication in the island now is better with more than 300 telephone lines that allow making both domestic and international calls.

In case of emergency, the number to dial if you need police assistance is 81 3619.1343, and 81 3619.1344 for the ambulance.

Medical Service

Fernando de Noronha has a public hospital that provides minor surgery and first aid services to its residents and tourists. It also has a small drugstore if you need to buy medicine. However, because the variety of medicine sold in the island is limited, it is actually advised for tourists to bring their first aid kit and other important pharmaceuticals.