Trilha do Capim Açu: A Challenging Hike Through Untouched Beauty

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Hike the challenging Capim Açu Trail in Fernando de Noronha for stunning views, natural pools and a unique island experience.

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Trilha do Capim Açu

The Trilha do Capim Açu (Capim Açu Trail) is a demanding 8 km hike in Fernando de Noronha, rewarding adventurers with stunning vistas, unique geological formations, and a chance to experience the island's wild, untouched beauty. It's a challenging but unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes.

A brief summary to Trilha do Capim Açu

Trilha Capim-Açu, Fernando de Noronha, State of Pernambuco, 53990-000, BR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Trilha do Capim Açu.

This trail is physically demanding; ensure you are in good shape and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Bring plenty of water (at least 3 liters) and snacks, as the hike lasts 6-8 hours.
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Hire a certified guide through ICMBio, which is required to complete the full trail.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Vila dos Remedios, the main hub in Fernando de Noronha, take the local bus towards Praia do Leão. The bus fare is R$5, payable in cash to the driver. Buses run every 30 minutes, but schedules can be unpredictable. Alight at the closest possible stop to the Trilha do Capim Açu entrance. From there, follow the signs; a short walk will lead you to the trail's starting point.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Fernando de Noronha. A taxi ride from Vila dos Remedios to the entrance of Trilha do Capim Açu typically costs between R$35-40. Confirm that the taxi accepts credit cards before starting the journey, or have cash ready. Nortax is the island's taxi service (+55 81 3619-1314).

Discover more about Trilha do Capim Açu

The Trilha do Capim Açu, located on the southwestern tip of Fernando de Noronha, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for seasoned hikers. This 8-kilometer (5-mile) trail, shaped like a U, takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete, traversing varied terrains and showcasing the island's most isolated and pristine landscapes. The trail begins near the entrance to Praia do Sancho, proceeding along a historical path with sections of packed earth, stones, and rocky coastline. Hikers will encounter steep ascents and descents amidst lush vegetation, leading to incredible viewpoints that offer panoramic views of both sides of the island. These unique perspectives reveal the dramatic geography of the archipelago, a sight exclusive to this trail. Along the way, hikers can visit the Sapata Lighthouse, accessible only via this route. The trail descends to natural pools for a refreshing dip and provides a close look at the impressive Capim Açu cave. The final stretch, nearly 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), tests endurance as it crosses unstable terrain of volcanic rocks, culminating at Praia do Leão, one of the island's most secluded beaches and a nesting site for sea turtles under the Projeto Tamar. Note that access to the trail is restricted from March to July due to the rainy season, which makes the trails muddy and more difficult to traverse.