01 · THE LOCATION
Where is Morro de Areia?
Morro de Areia is a protected natural reserve stretching along the south-western coast of Boa Vista. Its landscape combines sweeping sand dunes, wild beaches, coastal cliffs and the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The reserve takes its name from the Morro de Areia hill, which rises to 167 metres above sea level. The area was protected to preserve the natural movement of the dunes and the habitats of several coastal and marine species.
Protected coastal reserve
167-metre natural viewpoint
Dunes descending towards the Atlantic
How to reach Morro de Areia
Morro de Areia lies away from the island’s main paved roads and is reached through sandy tracks and wild coastal landscapes.A guided 4×4 or quad excursion is one of the easiest ways to explore the area, especially when combining Morro de Areia with Santa Monica, Varandinha and other attractions in southern Boa Vista. The official Boa Vista tourism guide specifically lists quad and 4×4 excursions among the ways to explore the reserve.
01
By guided 4×4 tour
Travel comfortably across southern Boa Vista and reach panoramic viewpoints that would be difficult to access with a standard vehicle.
02
By quad or buggy
Cross sandy tracks, dunes and remote landscapes while discovering the wild southern side of the island.
03
With an island excursion
Combine Morro de Areia with Santa Monica Beach, Varandinha and other natural highlights in one complete itinerary.
What to do at Morro de Areia
Morro de Areia combines adventure and nature in one of Boa Vista’s most distinctive coastal landscapes. Explore the dunes, admire the Atlantic from panoramic viewpoints or discover the reserve as part of a wider tour of the south.
04 · CURIOSITIES
What makes Morro de Areia unique?
Morro de Areia is much more than a panoramic viewpoint. It is a protected coastal ecosystem shaped by wind, sand and the Atlantic Ocean.
Shaped by moving dunes
The reserve was created partly to protect the natural movement of its coastal dunes, continuously reshaped by the wind.
A hill above the Atlantic
The name Morro de Areia comes from the hill that rises 167 metres above the surrounding coastal landscape.
Land and sea protected together
The reserve includes not only dunes and beaches but also a protected marine zone extending from the coastline, helping preserve an important habitat for marine and coastal wildlife.
05 · WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to visit
Morro de Areia can be explored throughout the year. Morning and late afternoon are particularly pleasant for enjoying the landscape, when the light creates stronger contrasts between the dunes, rocks and ocean.
Because the area is exposed to sun and wind, visitors should bring water, sunglasses and sun protection, especially when exploring the dunes or panoramic viewpoints.
Time of day
Morning or late afternoon
Ideal for softer temperatures and panoramic photography.
IDEAL FOR
Nature & photography
Perfect for panoramic views, wild landscapes and coastal scenery.
What to bring
Water & sun protection
Bring water, sunglasses, sunscreen and comfortable footwear.
BEST WAY TO VISIT
Guided south tour
Combine Morro de Areia with Santa Monica, Varandinha and other southern landmarks.
06 · FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Before you go