Overview
Macaé is a city of 262,000 people (2020) in northern Rio de Janeiro state, often called "Cidade do Petróleo" (City of Petroleum) as the base for most of Brazil's offshore oil exploration. While primarily a business destination for oil industry workers, it offers practical services, nearby beaches at Cavaleiros and Pecado, and access to the Serra de Macaé with waterfalls and outdoor activities.
Beach · Day Trips · Nature
Before you go
Money
Brazil uses the Real (BRL). ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted in the city center and tourist areas. No specific exchange rates or fee information provided in the article.
Safety
Standard urban safety precautions apply in Macaé. Beaches at Cavaleiros and Pecado are monitored. Outdoor activities in Serra de Macaé should be undertaken with proper guidance.
Transport
Macaé is 180 km from Rio de Janeiro via BR-101. Bus company 1001 operates frequent services from Rio's long-distance bus station. Joaquim de Azevedo Mancebo Airport connects to Rio Santos Dumont and Campinas.