Santuário Ecológico de Pipa is a protected stretch of Atlantic Forest in Tibau do Sul, just outside Pipa. Its shaded trails lead through native vegetation to viewpoints over the coast, including Praia do Madeiro and Baía dos Golfinhos. You can also visit a sea turtle exhibit and follow a trail down to Madeiro beach. Bring water and walking shoes: exploring the paths involves a fair amount of walking, but the forest shade and ocean views make the reserve a rewarding break from the beach.
Trails through the Atlantic Forest
The reserve is a protected area of Atlantic Forest on the coast near Pipa. Sixteen trails cross the native vegetation, with shaded stretches under the trees and several viewpoints along the way. The paths give you a chance to see the forest at close range, as well as to look out over the coastline from above.
Trail difficulty and length vary, so allow time to walk at a comfortable pace and stop at the viewpoints. The routes pass through three main sectors of the reserve. Pick up the trail map at the entrance and use it to plan which paths to follow. Water and walking shoes are useful, especially if you intend to explore more than one section.
Viewpoints over the bays
Lookouts face Praia do Madeiro and Baía dos Golfinhos. Two named viewpoints are Mirante das Tartarugas and Mirante dos Golfinhos. From the cliffs, you may spot sea turtles in the water below; dolphins are also seen in the bay, particularly early in the morning. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so take time to scan the water and watch the forest paths as you walk.
The shaded trails also pass through areas where visitors have spotted monkeys and birds. Move quietly if you hope to see animals. Mosquitoes can be around, even though the tree cover offers shelter from the sun.
Turtles and access to the beach
A small exhibit focuses on native sea turtles and their conservation. Brazil has five of the world’s seven sea turtle species, and turtles breed and hatch on Pipa’s beaches. Between January and June, visitors can take part in baby-turtle conservation activities organized by Projeto Tamar.
One of the reserve’s trails leads down to Praia do Madeiro via steep steps. This lets you combine a walk through the forest with time on the beach, though the descent is a consideration if you have limited mobility. The reserve is on the outskirts of Pipa and is accessible by car. Walking from the town centre takes about 25 minutes along the road, so a taxi can be a more comfortable option in the heat.
FAQ
How long should I allow for Santuário Ecológico de Pipa?
Allow at least 1.5 hours to walk the trails. You can spend a couple of hours exploring the viewpoints and exhibit without rushing.
Can you reach Praia do Madeiro from the reserve?
Yes. A trail leads down to the beach by a steep set of steps.
Can you see dolphins or turtles at the sanctuary?
Dolphins and sea turtles can sometimes be seen in the water below the viewpoints. Dolphins are more often spotted early in the morning, but wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Are there turtle conservation activities?
Between January and June, visitors can take part in baby-turtle conservation activities organized by Projeto Tamar.
How do you get to the reserve from Pipa town?
The walk from the town centre takes about 25 minutes along the road. You can also take a taxi or arrive by car.
