Mountains of Ceará

Ceará’s mountain ranges are mountainous regions that offer a unique combination of mild climate, beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity and a range of ecotourism activities.

Ceará’s mountain ranges and their tourist attractions

1. Serra da Aratanha

Serra da Aratanha, also known as Serra de Pacatuba, is a mountain range located in the north of Ceará, in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza in the municipalities of Maracanaú, Maranguape, Guaiúba and Pacatuba, 30 kilometres from Fortaleza.

The mountain range is one of the residual massifs scattered in Ceará’s hinterland depressions.

Together with the Maranguape mountain range, the Aratanha mountain range is practically an extension of the Baturité Massif.

  • Aratanha Waterfall
  • Ecological Trails
  • Historic Sites and Farms
  • Natural Viewpoints

2. Serra de Baturité

  • Guaramiranga: Known for its pleasant climate and attractions such as the Jazz & Blues Festival, Parque das Trilhas, and Mosteiro dos Jesuítas.
  • Pacoti: Offers waterfalls such as Cachoeira do Perigo and viewpoints with panoramic views.
  • Mulungu: Famous for the Véu da Noiva waterfall and coffee farms.
  • Baturité: Attractions include the Comendador Ananias Arruda Museum and the Baturité Railway Station.

3. Serra de Ibiapaba (Chapada da Ibiapaba)

  • Ubajara: It stands out for the Ubajara National Park, which includes the Ubajara Cave and the Ubajara Cable Car.
  • Tianguá: It offers ecological trails and beautiful landscapes, and is a base for exploring the Serra de Ibiapaba.
  • Viçosa do Ceará: A historic town with colonial architecture, old churches and breathtaking views.
  • Ipu: Famous for the Ipu Waterfall, one of the largest and most impressive in Ceará.

4. Serra do Araripe

  • Crato: Home to the Araripe Geopark, with a rich biodiversity and unique geological formations, as well as museums and trails.
  • Barbalha: Known for the Festa do Pau da Bandeira de Santo Antônio and its hot springs.
  • Juazeiro do Norte: An important religious pilgrimage centre, with the Padre Cícero statue and the Horto Hill standing out.

5. Serra das Matas

  • Maranguape: As well as hiking trails and waterfalls, it’s known for Ypióca, one of Brazil’s largest cachaça factories, with a guided tour of the Cachaça Museum.
  • Palmácia: It offers beautiful waterfalls, such as Cachoeira do Capivari, and a wide variety of ecological trails.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Mountains of Ceará

  • Climate: The Ceará mountains have a milder climate compared to the coast, with cooler temperatures, especially at night.
  • Accommodation: The region offers several options of inns, hotels and chalets that provide comfort and direct contact with nature.
  • Gastronomy: The cuisine is varied and delicious, with an emphasis on dishes made with fresh and regional ingredients, such as freshwater fish, tropical fruits and typical Northeastern dishes.
  • Transport: Renting a car is the best option for exploring the sierras, as many of the attractions are located in rural areas and are difficult to reach by public transport.

The mountains of Ceará are an unmissable destination for those seeking tranquillity, adventure and direct contact with nature. Each mountain range offers a unique experience, full of natural and cultural beauty.