Located on the northeast coast, Recife was originally built as a port along tropical, palm lined, white-sand beaches. Today Recife is a fast-growing urban area, popularly known as the "Venice of Brazil" because of the numerous waterways within the city. Although not especially appealing to tourism, it serves as gateway to extremely popular tourism sites including Olinda, a UNESCO designated world heritage site founded in 1537 and noted for ornate colonial churches and mansions, and the beach resort of Porto de Galinhas, an hour from Recife, now gaining fame worldwide for its spectacular beaches and excellent conditions for snorkeling, water sports and upscale romantic hotels.

Recommended stay
Three to seven nights.

When to go
Recife is a year ‘round destination where the sun shines perennially and rainy days are extremely rare. The region is hot and humid with prevailing sea winds and average year temperatures in the 80s with little seasonal variations.

Highlights
• Olinda City Tour: Take a tour of an authentic colonial town, designated by UNESCO as Patrimony of Mankind.
• Beachcombing: Don’t miss Porto de Galinhas, home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
• Traditional shows of African origin.
• The Cuisine: Acclaimed by many as the best in Brazil.
• Schooner Cruises.