Inland – Cabaceiras, Ingá, Areia, Sousa and Araruna

The interior of Paraíba, located in the Northeast region of Brazil, is filled with cities that offer a rich diversity of historical, cultural, and natural attractions.

Each city has its own unique personality and charms. Let’s explore Cabaceiras, Ingá, Areia, Sousa, and Araruna.

Places of interest in the interior of Paraíba

1. Cabaceiras

Known as the ‘Roliúde Nordestina’ due to the large number of films and soap operas shot in the region.

  • Lajedo de Pai Mateus: One of Paraíba’s main archaeological sites, famous for its impressive rock formations and cave paintings. Activities: Guided trails, observation of rock formations, exploration of cave paintings.
  • The King Goat Festival: An annual event that celebrates goat farming, with exhibitions, shows and tastings of typical dishes. Activities: Participation in fairs, regional music shows, competitions and gastronomy.

Cabaceiras has been the setting for several films and soap operas, including ‘O Auto da Compadecida’. Activities: Visit the filming locations and learn about the city’s film history.

2. Ingá

Famous for the mysterious rock inscriptions of Ingá in interior of Paraíba, also known as Itacoatiaras do Ingá.

  • Pedra do Ingá: An archaeological monument with inscriptions dating back thousands of years, the meaning of which is still being studied. Activities: Visit to the archaeological site, interpretation of the inscriptions with local guides.
  • Ingá Natural History Museum: Offers an insight into the natural and archaeological history of the region. Activities: Visiting the museum’s exhibitions, learning about local history and culture.
  • Roncador Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located nearby, ideal for a relaxing walk. Activities: Waterfall bathing, picnics and hiking.

3. Areia

A historic town located in the Brejo Paraibano region, known for its colonial architecture and cachaça production.

  • The Minerva Theatre: The oldest theatre in Paraíba, founded in 1859, with a rich history and preserved architecture. Activities: Watching plays, guided tours of the historic theatre.
  • Museu Casa de Pedro Américo: The house where the famous painter Pedro Américo was born, today a museum dedicated to his life and work. Activities: Visiting the museum, appreciating the painter’s works of art and personal objects.
  • Engenhos de Cachaça: Areia is known for producing high-quality artisanal cachaça. Activities: Visits to mills, cachaça tastings, production tours.

4. Sousa

Known as the ‘City of Dinosaurs’ due to the Dinosaur Park, an important palaeontological site.

  • Vale dos Dinossauros: One of the largest and most important palaeontological sites in Brazil, with preserved dinosaur footprints. Activities: Visits to the park, guided trails, observation of footprints and fossils.
  • Sousa Museum: Displays fossils and information about the region’s prehistory. Activities: Visiting the museum’s exhibitions, learning about palaeontology.
  • Serrote da Laje: A natural viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and the region. Activities: Hiking, landscape observation and photography.

5. Araruna

Located in the Agreste Paraibano region, Araruna is known for its rock formations and ecotourism areas.

  • State Park Pedra da Boca: Offers hiking trails, climbing and impressive views of the rock formations. Activities: Climbing, abseiling, ecological trails and observation of fauna and flora.
  • Araruna Winter Festival: A cultural event that takes place every year, with musical and theatre performances and recreational activities. Activities: Participation in the festival, enjoyment of cultural and gastronomic events.
  • Roncador Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall ideal for hiking and swimming. Activities: Hiking, waterfall bathing and picnics.

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The interior of Paraíba can be visited all year round, but the winter months (June to August) are particularly pleasant due to the milder climate and cultural festivals.
  • Transport: Renting a car is a good option for exploring these towns and their attractions, as it allows for greater flexibility.
  • Accommodation: Each city offers a variety of accommodation options, from rustic inns to more comfortable hotels.

Final thoughts

The interior of Paraíba offers a diversity of experiences ranging from exploring archaeological and palaeontological sites to immersing yourself in rich cultural traditions and festivals.

Towns like Cabaceiras, Ingá, Areia, Sousa and Araruna are hidden treasures that offer a unique insight into Brazil’s history, culture and nature.