Ceará

Highlights in Ceará include Fortaleza, the beaches and cliffs in Jericoacoara, Canoa Quebrada, Aracati and Cumbuco, as well as culture and history.

Main Tourist Attractions and Activities in Ceará

1. Canoa Quebrada

For a long time, Canoa Quebrada in Ceará was a hippy hideaway. Today, however, it receives many tourists and is not as quiet as it used to be. But the beauty remains undisputed: the beaches with their reddish cliffs are mesmerising.

Those who have the time to do more than a simple day trip from Fortaleza will discover a calm and special place.

2. Jericoacoara

Very high-spirited, Jericoacoara in Ceará attracts young people, but it’s calm. In July, the wind and kitesurfing season begins and the beach becomes colourful with boards.

At dusk, tourists and some locals gather at the Sunset Dune.

Another unmissable walk is to the famous Pedra Furada, sculpted by the sea – in July, the sun appears in the middle of the hole.

The hammocks over the water of Lagoa do Paraíso are a trademark of Jijoca de Jericoacoara, 23 kilometres from Jericoacoara.

The feeling of being far away from any problems is unavoidable – the place seems to have been made for relaxing and not thinking about anything else.

Tatajuba Beach in Camocim in Ceará, the original village was buried by the dunes on the right bank. On the other side of the Tatajuba River, the current fishing village was built.

You can get there by buggy or four-wheel drive vehicle, as after taking the ferry across the River Coreaú, you have to overcome 22 kilometres of sandy road and dunes.

The beach is the picture of peace and quiet, with very little traffic, it’s the ideal place for those who want to enjoy themselves without too much hustle and bustle.

3. Beach Park

Hardly anyone visits Fortaleza without taking a trip to Beach Park.

On the seafront, the water park has fun for all the family, with light, moderate and extreme attractions.

Among the many waterslides, the Insano is still the adrenaline champion: its 41-metre descent reaches a speed of 105 kilometres per hour.

But make no mistake, on holiday be prepared to face long queues.

The small fishing village is a stop-off point for buggy rides – this is the best way to get there. In the shape of a half-moon, with cliffs of coloured sand, Ponta Grossa also has dunes that make up the landscape.

The sea is rough and green, full of reefs and submerged rocks. The road from Canoa Quebrada to this beach is beautiful.

4. Fortaleza

  • Praia do Futuro: One of Fortaleza’s best-known beaches, with huts that offer a complete structure for holidaymakers.
  • Praia do Futuro: One of Fortaleza’s best-known beaches, with huts that offer a complete structure for holidaymakers.
  • Beira Mar: A seafront avenue where you can find craft markets, restaurants and a great place for a walk.
  • Dragão do Mar Art and Culture Centre: A cultural complex with museums, a cinema, a planetarium and spaces for cultural events.

5. Beberibe

You know those little craft bottles made of coloured sand? Many go to the village of Morro Branco (Beberibe) in search of these souvenirs to give to friends.

Lose yourself in the labyrinth of cliffs with sand of different colours.

  • Guajiru Beach (Trairi) in Ceará is much less busy than the others; the little village preserves its tranquillity and is ideal for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the central beaches.

The quiet beach has few inns, coconut palms and white dunes.

Formed by cliffs, dunes and coconut palms, Lagoinha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ceará.

The main bars, restaurants and inns are in a small centre and, although it’s not as unspoilt as it was a few years ago, the place is heavenly. All this without the hustle and bustle of the more centralised beaches.

  • Praia Redonda (Icapuí), the fishing village has, like most of the beaches there, reddish cliffs, reefs and beautiful scenery on the most deserted stretch.

6. Nature and Adventure

  • Jericoacoara National Park: As well as beaches, it offers trails and stunning landscapes for nature lovers.
  • Cachoeira de Missão Velha: A beautiful waterfall located in the interior of the state, ideal for a day of adventure.
  • Ubajara National Park: Known for its caves and trails, it is an ideal destination for ecotourism.

7. Culture and History

  • Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza: An impressive neo-Gothic building in the centre of the city.
  • Central Market of Fortaleza: A great place to buy local handicrafts and try typical foods.
  • Ceará Museum: Located in a former palace, it offers a comprehensive overview of the state’s history and culture.

8. Gastronomy

Ceará’s cuisine is rich and varied, with typical dishes such as:

  • Peixada Cearense: Fish cooked with vegetables and local spices.
  • Carne de Sol: Salted, sun-dried meat served with manioc or green beans.
  • Tapioca: Available with sweet and savoury fillings, it is a popular delicacy at fairs and markets.

9. Parties and Events

  • Fortal: One of the biggest off-season carnivals in Brazil, held in Fortaleza.
  • Guaramiranga Jazz and Blues Festival: Held in the hills of Guaramiranga, it is an important cultural event in the state.
  • Quadrilhas Juninas: The June festivals in Ceará are famous for their traditional dances and typical food.

10. Useful Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: From July to December, when the climate is drier and more pleasant.
  • Transport: Renting a car can be convenient for exploring areas outside Fortaleza.
  • Accommodation: Fortaleza offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget hostels.

Ceará is a state that combines natural beauty, vibrant culture and welcoming hospitality. If you’re planning a trip there, get ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Ceará Tourist Guide

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