Ceará Travel Guide (Northeast/Brazil/South America)

Introduction to Ceará

Ceará is a state located in the Northeast of Brazil, known for its stunning beaches, sand dunes, and vibrant culture. Ceará is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Ceará

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cathedral of Fortaleza: Built in 1938, this beautiful cathedral is a landmark of Fortaleza.
Museum of Ceará: The museum features artifacts, documents, and exhibits that showcase the state’s rich history.
São José Market: This market is one of the oldest in Brazil and is the perfect place to soak in the local culture.
Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture: This modern complex is a cultural hub for the state with a theater, cinema, and gallery.

Natural Attractions of Ceará: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bóris, Prainha, and Praia do Futuro Beaches: These beaches are famous for their clear waters and lively atmosphere.
Jericoacoara: Known for its beautiful sand dunes and crystal clear water, Jericoacoara is a must-visit destination in Ceará.
Lencois Maranhenses National Park: This park is home to stunning sand dunes and lagoons and is perfect for adventurous visitors.
Canoa Quebrada: This coastal town boasts stunning cliffs and a bohemian vibe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ceará

Serra de Ibiapaba: This mountain range is home to beautiful trails that offer hikers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Parque Nacional de Ubajara: This national park is known for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails that lead to beautiful viewpoints.
Rota das Falésias: This scenic route on the coast of Ceará offers breathtaking views of the ocean and sand dunes.

Best Things to Do in Ceará: Activities and Tours

Kite Surfing: Ceará’s beaches offer some of the best conditions for kite surfing in Brazil.
Sandboarding: Visitors can try their hand at sandboarding on the stunning sand dunes in Ceará.
Sunset on the Mandacaru: Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the sunset from the top of the Mandacaru lighthouse.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ceará

Day 1-3: Fortaleza

Explore the city’s museums and landmarks, such as the Catedral de Fortaleza and the São José Market.
Relax on some of the famous beaches, such as Bóris, Prainha, and Praia do Futuro.

Day 4-5: Jericoacoara

Enjoy the stunning sand dunes and crystal clear water of Jericoacoara.
Take a buggy tour of the surrounding area.

Day 6-7: Canoa Quebrada

Soak in the bohemian vibe of Canoa Quebrada.
Enjoy the beautiful views of the cliffs overlooking the ocean.

Food and Drink Scene of Ceará

Must-Try Dishes

Carne de Sol: This dish features sun-dried beef that is then fried and served with beans, rice, and buttered manioc.
Peixada Cearense: This seafood stew is made with a variety of fish and vegetables and is usually served with rice.
Cocada: A typical dessert made with grated coconut and sugar.

Local Beverages

Cachaça: This distilled spirit made from sugarcane is a popular drink in Brazil.
Cajuína: This sweet drink is made from the juice of the cashew fruit and is a refreshing choice on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Ceará: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fortaleza: Visitors can find a range of accommodation options in Fortaleza, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and charming guesthouses.
Jericoacoara: Accommodation options in Jericoacoara range from cozy guesthouses to luxury resorts.
Canoa Quebrada: Visitors can find a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options in Canoa Quebrada.

What to Buy in Ceará: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Crafts and Clothing: Ceará is known for its beautiful crafts and clothing, such as hammocks and lace.
Local Products: Visitors can bring home local products, such as cajuína and cashew nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Ceará

Ceará has a rich culture that blends indigenous, European, and African influences. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and visitors should expect to be greeted warmly.

Best Time to Visit Ceará

The best time to visit Ceará is from August to December, when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the peak season, so travelers should book accommodation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ceará

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Try the delicious food and drinks.
Take time to explore the stunning natural attractions.

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in public.
Leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ceará

Ceará is generally a safe destination for travelers. Visitors should exercise caution in Fortaleza, as pickpocketing and petty theft can occur.

Health in Ceará

Visitors should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations before traveling to Ceará. It is also important to take precautions against mosquito bites, as there is a risk of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses in the area.

Getting to Ceará: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ceará

Fortaleza International Airport: The main airport serving Ceará.

Bus Stations Near Ceará

Fortaleza Bus Station: The main bus station in Fortaleza, serving regional and national destinations.

Other Options

Car Rental: Car rental is available in Fortaleza for visitors who want to explore the surrounding area independently.
Taxi/Uber: Taxis and Uber are widely available in Fortaleza and are a convenient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Ceará

The easiest way to get around Ceará is by car or taxi. Visitors can also use public transportation, such as buses and vans, to get around the cities and towns in the state.

Where to Go Next from Ceará: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Parnaíba Delta National Park: This national park, located in the neighboring state of Piauí, is famous for its stunning landscape of sand dunes, lagoons, and mangroves.
Lençóis Maranhenses: Located in the neighboring state of Maranhão, this national park is home to some of the most stunning sand dunes and lagoons in Brazil.

Conclusion

Ceará is a fascinating destination for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning beaches, natural attractions, and vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in Ceará.

Ceará Image Gallery

Sunset at Preá Beach, near Jericoacoara