Natal is famous for its towering sand dunes, rising like cliffs above the sea. A running ‘experience’ in Natal is to try to run up and down the dunes, in areas where this is permitted. This is not going to be a long run — just a fun and scenic challenge to add to a running ‘bucket list’. NOTE: Run ONLY on the dunes where this is permittedto do. Many of the dunes in Natal are protected and/or require a guide.
Parque Das Dunes
Trail in Parque Das Dunes. Creative Commons
One of the most scenic dune areas is the Parque Das Dunes, which is just north of Ponta Negra Beach. This extensive park stretches for nearly 4 km. There are two main trails: Trilha Peroba (2.4 km); and Trilha Ubaia Doce (4.4 km). Both trails are a combination of wooded sections through an Atlantic Forest, and some walking on the actual dunes. NOTE: This is a protected conservation area, and a reservation and guide are required. You must ask the guide if running is permitted.
Dunas de Genipabu
A better and more accessible running option is at the Dunas de Genipabu, located in Extremoz, about 20 minutes north of Natal. This large dune area, located at the south end of the Praia de Genipabu (beach) is more open to walking (or running) on the dunes, as the area is also popular for buggy tours and other activities. Note the sand is very soft, and is very challenging! Combine with easier running on the firm sand near the water on Praia de Genipabu.
Dunas de Graçandu
The Dunas de Graçandu are located in the area of Lagoa de Pitangui in Extremoz. It is permitted to hike/walk/run in some of the dunes here.
Natal is famous for its towering sand dunes, rising like cliffs above the sea. A running ‘experience’ in Natal is to try to run up and down the dunes, in areas where this is permitted. This is not going to be a long run — just a fun and scenic challenge to add to a running ‘bucket list’. NOTE: Run ONLY on the dunes where this is permittedto do. Many of the dunes in Natal are protected and/or require a guide.
Parque Das Dunes
Trail in Parque Das Dunes. Creative Commons
One of the most scenic dune areas is the Parque Das Dunes, which is just north of Ponta Negra Beach. This extensive park stretches for nearly 4 km. There are two main trails: Trilha Peroba (2.4 km); and Trilha Ubaia Doce (4.4 km). Both trails are a combination of wooded sections through an Atlantic Forest, and some walking on the actual dunes. NOTE: This is a protected conservation area, and a reservation and guide are required. You must ask the guide if running is permitted.
Dunas de Genipabu
A better and more accessible running option is at the Dunas de Genipabu, located in Extremoz, about 20 minutes north of Natal. This large dune area, located at the south end of the Praia de Genipabu (beach) is more open to walking (or running) on the dunes, as the area is also popular for buggy tours and other activities. Note the sand is very soft, and is very challenging! Combine with easier running on the firm sand near the water on Praia de Genipabu.
Dunas de Graçandu
The Dunas de Graçandu are located in the area of Lagoa de Pitangui in Extremoz. It is permitted to hike/walk/run in some of the dunes here.
Essentials
Parque Das Dunes; Dunas de Genipabu are in Extremos, 20 mins. north of Natal
There's ~10 km of scenic waterfront running in Natal, with great views of the beach, water, & dunes. Three distinct sections that can be combined: Ponta Negra, Parque Das Dunes, and Petrópolis.
This iconic bridge above the Potengi River, completed in 2007, is both a scenic and running highlight in Natal. There are pedestrian paths on both sides of this 1.8 km bridge. Great views! Good options to extend the run on the north & south sides.
The best option for running in Natal outside the waterfront paths. Lovely, lush city park with a 2.5 km stone-surfaced trail running through it. Mainly forested, with some section alongside dunes, with nice views. Good shade option!
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Essentials
Parque Das Dunes; Dunas de Genipabu are in Extremos, 20 mins. north of Natal
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