Is Natal Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, is generally treated and considered safe to drink when supplied through the public water network. The local utility, CAERN, must meet Brazil’s national drinking-water quality standards.
Water quality can be affected by building storage tanks, aging plumbing, or interruptions in supply, so use a clean, covered tank and maintain household filters. Bottled or filtered water is a sensible choice for infants and people with weakened immune systems.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Brazil is ranked as number 79 globally with a score of 59.1% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Natal, Brazil
Tap water in Natal is supplied mainly through the Jiqui and Extremoz water systems, managed by CAERN, the Rio Grande do Norte Water and Sewage Company. These systems draw from surface water in Lagoa do Jiqui and Lagoa de Extremoz.
Groundwater wells also supplement the municipal supply, particularly in areas served by local well systems. Water from these sources is treated before entering Natal’s distribution network.
Natal Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Natal are generally safe only when they are connected to the treated municipal water supply and regularly cleaned and maintained. Water that is clear and odorless is not necessarily safe if the fountain or surrounding fixtures are poorly maintained.
Use fountains that appear clean, intact, and actively maintained, and avoid any with stagnant water, damaged taps, or visible dirt. Bottled water is the safer choice for fountains with uncertain maintenance or hygiene.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Natal. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.