Recife is a city located in the northeastern part of Brazil, situated in the state of Pernambuco, where it serves as the capital.

Quick Facts

Land Area218 km², about the size of the city of Baltimore
Highest PointMorro da Conceição, 64 meters
Lowest Pointsea level, 0 meters
Coastline32 km, along the Atlantic Ocean
BordersNone, as it is a city
Climate Typetropical

Location & Borders

Recife is situated in the northeastern part of Brazil, in the state of Pernambuco, where it serves as the capital. The city is located on the Atlantic coast, near the mouth of the Capibaribe, Beberibe, and Tejipió rivers. Recife is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Pernambuco state countryside to the west, north, and south. The city's unique location, with its many bridges, islands, and waterways, has earned it the nickname "The Brazilian Venice".

Recife is not a country, but rather a city, and as such, it does not have international borders. However, it is an important urban center in the northeastern region of Brazil, and it is situated near several other major cities, including Olinda, Jaboatão dos Guararapes, and Paulista. The city's proximity to the ocean and its many waterways make it an important hub for trade and commerce in the region.

Terrain & Landscape

The terrain of Recife is generally flat, with many islands, rivers, and canals. The city is situated on the Atlantic coast, and its coastline is marked by a series of beaches, including the popular Boa Viagem beach. The city's landscape is also characterized by many bridges, which connect the various islands and neighborhoods of the city. The most notable of these bridges is the Ponte Presidente Castelo Branco, also known as the Ponte Velha, which spans the Capibaribe River and connects the city center to the southern part of the city.

Recife's terrain is also marked by many rivers, including the Capibaribe, Beberibe, and Tejipió rivers, which flow through the city and empty into the Atlantic Ocean. The city's many waterways have played an important role in its history and development, and they continue to be an important part of the city's landscape and identity. The surrounding countryside is generally flat, with many sugarcane plantations and other agricultural areas.

The city's landscape is also characterized by many parks and gardens, including the Parque da Jaqueira, which is one of the largest urban parks in Brazil. The park features many walking trails, gardens, and other recreational areas, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Other notable parks and gardens in Recife include the Parque do Capibaribe and the Horto do Recife, which feature many beautiful plants and flowers, as well as walking trails and other recreational areas.

Climate By Season

SeasonMonthsTemperature RangeRainfallConditions
SummerDecember to March23-30°CHighHot and humid, with frequent rain showers
AutumnApril to June20-25°CMediumMild temperatures, with some rain showers
WinterJuly to September18-22°CLowMild temperatures, with minimal rainfall
SpringOctober to November20-25°CMediumMild temperatures, with some rain showers

Best Time To Visit

Best months: September to November and March to May. Why: These periods offer mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Avoid: December to February, as these months are the hottest and most humid, with frequent rain showers.

Natural Highlights

  • The Atlantic Forest, a unique and threatened ecosystem that surrounds the city and features many beautiful plants and animals.
  • The Capibaribe River, which flows through the city and offers many opportunities for boating and fishing.
  • The Boa Viagem beach, a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
  • The Itamaracá Island, a small island located off the coast of Recife that features many beautiful beaches and natural areas.
  • The Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park, a protected area located off the coast of Recife that features many unique and threatened marine species.
  • The Catimbau National Forest, a protected area located near Recife that features many beautiful plants and animals, as well as opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.