Expan Experience: Porto de Galinhas, the jewel of Northeast Brazil
Located on the southern coast of Pernambuco , just 50 kilometers from Recife, Porto de Galinhas has established itself as a leading destination in Brazil, thanks to the perfect combination of warm water beaches , natural pools , top-notch hotel infrastructure and a deeply Brazilian cultural identity.
Alejandra Barría, Head of Marketing at Expan Tours , tells us in this new edition of Expan Experience the details of her most recent trip to Porto de Galinhas , where she participated in the Visit Travel Show and discovered the charms of the trendy destination in Northeast Brazil.
A key meeting for Latin American tourism
" My arrival in this paradise had a clear purpose: to participate in the seventh edition of the Visit Travel Show , one of the most important tourism events in the region, which takes place every December in Porto de Galinhas ."
The Visit Travel Show brings together hoteliers , service providers , tourism associations , and representatives from EMBRATUR each year to showcase the destination's enormous potential. This year's edition featured agencies and tour operators from across Latin America .
The fair and the familiarization trip were organized by the Porto de Galinhas Convention & Visitors Bureau (PGACVB) together with the Porto de Galinhas Hotel Association (AHPG) , also having the institutional support of the Government of Pernambuco , through the Pernambuco Tourism and Leisure Secretariat and Empetur .
" The business roundtable , held at the Armação Resort Convention Center , was one of the key moments of the meeting. There was a collaborative atmosphere, focused on promoting destinations , connecting with key market players , and creating concrete opportunities for regional tourism development ."
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Porto de Galinhas, An impressive destination
" From the first day, Porto de Galinhas pleasantly surprised me. The weather is simply ideal, especially for those of us traveling from Chile. While winter falls in our country, in this jewel of the Brazilian northeast we are welcomed by the sun, the warm sea and perfect temperatures to enjoy the outdoors ."
One important detail is the absence of sargassum , a factor that currently worries many travelers seeking beach destinations in the Caribbean. Here, the sea is clean, clear, and teeming with life.
Added to this is something only Brazil can offer: its people, its music, and a profoundly joyful culture. That contagious vibe that, without exaggeration, renews your energy from day one.
" Furthermore, connectivity plays a fundamental role. I arrived on a direct LATAM flight to Recife International Airport , which is only 50 kilometers from the destination. The flight, which operates every Friday with an excellent schedule, greatly facilitates the travel experience and allows us to offer this destination with complete confidence to different types of passengers ."
Located on the southern coast of Pernambuco , Porto de Galinhas is a former fishing village that, over the years, has transformed into the most popular beach resort in northeastern Brazil . It's no coincidence that it was chosen as the most beautiful beach in Brazil by Viagem e Turismo magazine for 10 consecutive years .
" The recognition is totally deserved. The destination boasts 18 kilometers of beaches , famous for their natural pools , which form among reefs and offer a unique spectacle of calm and crystal-clear waters ."
Hotels in Porto de Galinhas: Diversity and excellence
Porto de Galinhas stands out for its hotel infrastructure for all types of travelers, its high-quality gastronomy and a tourist offer designed for all types of travelers: families with small children , couples , groups of friends and those looking for rest or adventure.
" During the pre-tour , I had the opportunity to visit a wide selection of hotels, which allowed me to experience firsthand the diversity of options available at the destination ."
Among the hotels visited were:
- Armação Resort
- Kembali Hotel
- Hotel Solar Porto de Galinhas
- The Westin Porto de Galinhas
- Marupiara Resort by Wish
- Hotel Village Porto de Galinhas
- Live Porto de Galinhas Resort
- Samoa Villa Resort and Samoa Resort
- Marulhos Resort
- Nannai High Wall
From simple and welcoming hotels, ideal for those seeking rest, to absolute luxury experiences like The Westin or Nannai Muro Alto , Porto de Galinhas offers alternatives for all budgets and travel styles.
" Furthermore, the option to choose between breakfast only , half board or full board allows you to personalize the experience according to the traveler's needs ."
Discover Solar and Live Porto de Galinhas Resort
The Hotel Solar Porto de Galinhas stands out, located on the beachfront , and has been designed to make every guest feel at home: " Its rooms with oceanfront jacuzzis are ideal for romantic getaways, as are the family suites , designed for those traveling with children and seeking tranquility and comfort ."
The experience is complemented by a wide range of services: swimming pools for children and adults , a children's club , a games room , guided recreation , a bar and restaurant , beach service and spaces dedicated to well-being.
" And if there's one place where the word ' resort' truly comes to life in Porto de Galinhas, it's the Vivá Porto de Galinhas Resort . Facing one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches , this resort presents itself as a true seaside paradise ."
With top-notch infrastructure, Vivá combines nature , entertainment , and comfort in one place. Its aquatic complex with seven pools , multi-sports courts , cinema , spa , academy , and expansive green areas invite you to enjoy yourself at a leisurely pace, alternating between relaxation and outdoor activities.
Buggy, snorkel and more
" One of the most memorable experiences was the buggy ride , a dynamic and entertaining tour that allows you to discover different beaches and landscapes in the area, combining adventure and direct contact with nature ."
Another must-do is the jangada (traditional raft) ride through the natural pools . Sailing across these calm waters and then diving in to swim among thousands of colorful fish is an unforgettable experience. Snorkeling here is accessible even for those with no prior experience.
Tips for travelers
" My recommendation is to bring an underwater camera to capture this moment and, very importantly, check the tide tables before planning your trip. There are specialized websites that allow you to schedule your visit for the ideal time, when the pools are at their most spectacular ."
In my experience, Porto de Galinhas is a destination you can—and want to—return to more than once. For those who have already visited Rio de Janeiro or Búzios , this place is a natural next step in exploring Brazil .
It is essential to dedicate at least one night to the boardwalk , on the main beach, where the nightlife and local gastronomy are concentrated, with a strong presence of fresh fish and typical drinks that reflect the Brazilian identity .
If the sea , nature , and authentic experiences make you happy, Porto de Galinhas delivers all of that and more. It's not just a beach destination: it's an experience that combines human warmth and landscapes that stay with you long after you return home .
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