When you travel, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to get off the plane only to be faced with a long, unenjoyable ride into town. This is especially true if you’re travelling during peak season. To make things a little bit easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay when travelling to Bananal Island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, we have everything you need in this list! So, pack your bags, and let’s take a trip to Bananal Island!
Contents
History
Bananal Island is a relatively new island, having been created by the construction of a dam in 1968. Prior to that, it was simply an extension of the mainland. Bananal Island has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil, and for good reason! The island is characterized by its stunning natural beauty (both on land and underwater), as well as its abundance of different wildlife species.
Landscape & Nature
Bananal Island is home to many different types of vegetation – from dense rainforest to wide-open savannahs. There are also countless birdwat chers, as there are a huge amount of different species to admire. The island is great for tourism and adventure lovers looking to take a break from the chaos of city life (and also right under your nose, since it’s just 100 km away).
Off-the-beaten Track If you’re up and running in two hours or less (and really want some solitude), Bananal Island will be perfect for you! People have been consistently reporting that they have run multiple marathons on this island – successfully completing them within 2 hours 7 minutes.
This relatively new development is set along a small peninsula. If don’t want to run, you can still make the most of a few hours alone on Bananal Island without a guide or transport! You will simply have to follow your feet – this island’s topography is very defined for those who are trying-hardly-not-to get lost.
Climate
Bananal island has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 21-28°C. The island experiences a lot of seasonal variations, but the best time to visit is typically between November and April. This is when the weather is coolest, and most of the wildlife are active (though sightings can be seen at any time!).
Inclusions/Extras
When visiting Bananal Island, you’ll need some basic supplies: water bottles , sunscreen , hats (even if it’s just for photos!), insect repellent , snacks/food . However, don’t forget to bring at least a camera for some group photography, an eye-mask to protect your eyes from the bright sun, and reading/listening material .
Location and Arrival
Bananal island is located off the eastern coast of Ilha Grande, in a more secluded area in São Joaquim. It only takes around one hour to drive from Natal centre, and you can get there through a small airport called ‘Jangada’.
To reach Bananal Island by car, follow these directions: head west on BR-158 until it reaches towards Ponta Garça – take a left here (and keep following road signs for Açu) At this turnoff, you will see “Santo Antônio” You should approach Bananal island from the left. The access to Bananal is a very small bridge, filled with cliffs on one side and beautiful water on the other.
Culture
There is no permanent population on Bananal island, but the island has a rich natural and cultural history. The first people who settled there were the Tupi-Guarani, who named it ‘Bananal’. Over time, it was home to many different cultures: the Portuguese, English and Dutch colonists; later, African slaves (who developed a unique culture of their own); finally, during World War II – when Brazil was occupied by Nazi Germany – several concentration camps were set up on Bananal island. Today there are still traces of these past events visible around the island: for example, remnants of the concentration camps can be seen on a hill above Bananal island.
There are no public houses for alcoholic beverages, and no drug paraphernalia is available at all. The water supply was shut down in 2003; drinking water must be purchased from kiosks around town or boiled before use (approx Rs 20 per person).
Politics
Bananal island is a demarcated territory in the municipality of São Joaquim, and its residents elect their own Mayor and representatives to Municipal Assemblies. Bananal island is also part of the greater Natal metropolitan area, which has a population of over 6 million people.
Government services
The island is serviced by a municipal police station, a post office, and a few small stores. There are no clinics or hospitals on the island.
Tourism
Bananal island is noted for its ecotourism attractions, such as nesting seabirds (including white-hued pelicans and blue-and-yellow macaws) and lush rainforest. The island can be visited either by boat or by foot; there are also several small restaurants located around town that serve local dishes (such as barbecue shrimp).
Conclusion
Located off the west coast of Sumatra in Indonesia, Bananal Island is a volcanic island that is home to a giant red banana plantation. The island is also known for being the location where the first domesticated banana was grown.
FAQs
1 .what is the Climate Like on Bananal Island?
The climate on Bananal island is tropical. There are many palm trees and breezes that keep the temperature comfortable all year round. However, the island does get a lot of rain so be sure to pack an umbrella!
2.is There Any Tourism on Bananal Island?
Tourism is not a huge part of life in Banananl, but as mentioned earlier, it’s home to one of the world’s biggest banana plantations so there may be some visitors if you’re interested in learning more about bananas or plantation life.
3.is There a Custom’s Office on Bananal Island?
There is no formal immigration office at Banaras island but you can see customs officials checking passports and other documents when entering the island, though they are generally made to be friendly towards visitors so don’t worry! Also, if you’re travelling as tourists off-season (Fall or Winter) there will probably not be any regulatory constrains that require it.
4 .what Currency Do I Use in Balneario Island?
The local money used during your stay is rupiah , which translates to about 13,000 IDR for one dollar.
5 .do I Need a Visa to Travel and Visit Banaras Island? What is the Requirements for It?
Visitors from the following countries do not require a visa: Australia, Brazil, Canada and New Zealand Consular Safe Travel Footnote Before travelling you can check if your country requires or recommends purchasing specific travel documents e.g.: passport holder or flight document; there are other options but we would recommend using this checklist when checking documents with your local consulate before leaving home via www.embassy-finder to find out what you need in advance.
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