Cumbuco Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to see and do in Cumbuco, Brazil with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to culturally significant landmarks, we've got you covered!


Introduction to Cumbuco

Located in the state of Ceará in Northeast Brazil, Cumbuco is a charming beach town known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. Renowned among kite surfers, this sleepy fishing village is rapidly growing in popularity among travelers seeking a more laid-back alternative to the crowded beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Cumbuco.

List of Places to Visit in Cumbuco

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cumbuco is rich in history and culture. A must-see attraction is the Engenho São José Sugar Mill. This historical site tells the story of the brave sugar cane farmers that worked in the Engenho São José plantations. In the center of the town, you’ll also find a beautiful church called Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes. Besides being an important religious site, the church boasts impressive architecture and artwork.

Natural Attractions of Cumbuco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking to get active, Cumbuco has a wide range of outdoor activities available - from hiking to windsurfing, horseback riding, and more. Exploring the dunes and the natural landscape is a must-do activity, where visitors will have the chance to witness the stunning beaches of the area, take buggy and bike rides, and dune buggy tours. For bird watchers, the local Cauipe Lagoon is a great spot to take in the beauty of the local ecosystem and see a variety of different bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cumbuco

Cumbuco is an excellent destination for hikers and bikers. For those looking to explore on foot, we recommend hiking in the nearby dunes to take in the stunning views of the coastline. If you’d rather take to two wheels, then there are plenty of biking routes to choose from - one of the most popular is Cumbuco’s 52 km round trip route. The route passes by sand dunes, lagoons, and more, and allows visitors to explore the beauty of the area at their leisure.

Best Things to Do in Cumbuco: Activities and Tours

In addition to outdoor activities, there are plenty of other things to do in Cumbuco. Visitors can visit the local market, which is a great place to pick up souvenirs, fresh produce, and snacks. For the more adventurous visitors, we recommend exploring the nearby mangroves through guided tours. And of course, there’s always plenty of relaxation to be found on the beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cumbuco

For visitors who have a little more time to spend in Cumbuco, we recommend a week-long itinerary that includes plenty of time to explore the area’s natural beauty and dive into the local culture. Here’s what we suggest:

  • Day 1: Check out the Engenho São José Sugar Mill and the Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes church in the center of town.
  • Day 2: Take a buggy tour and go sandboarding or rent a bike to explore the surrounding area.
  • Day 3: Visit Cauipe Lagoon, a popular destination for bird watchers.
  • Day 4: Book a windsurfing or kite surfing lesson, and enjoy the best of the local outdoor sports scene.
  • Day 5: Take a guided tour of the mangroves and explore the nearby countryside.
  • Day 6: Visit the local market and pick up some souvenirs or snacks. Spend the rest of the day lounging on the beach.
  • Day 7: Relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

Food and Drink Scene of Cumbuco

Must-Try Dishes

Cumbuco is famous for its seafood and traditional Brazilian cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying Moqueca de Peixe, a traditional fish stew that’s a staple in the local cuisine. Another dish worth a try is Tapioca, a street-style breakfast food that you’ll find in almost every market in town.

Local Beverages

Cumbuco is home to some delicious local drinks, including Caipirinhas, a classic Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime, sugar, and ice. You can also try refreshing coconut water right from the source.

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

Cumbuco has plenty of options for those looking for a place to stay. For those on a budget, there are plenty of hostels in town, while those looking for more luxurious accommodations can choose from a number of hotels and guesthouses. Beachfront options are particularly popular, and there are plenty of great choices all around the area.

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

If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs or local products to bring home, we recommend checking out the local market. Here you’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to local crafts, snacks, and more. Be sure to take a look at local pottery, leather goods, and woven baskets - they make for great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Cumbuco

Cumbuco is a melting pot of cultures and influences, thanks to its location at the intersection of Afro-Brazilian and European traditions. Visitors should be mindful of the customs and traditions of the local people, including being respectful of religious sites and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Cumbuco

The best time to visit Cumbuco is during the dry season, which runs from July to December. During this time, visitors can expect sunny and warm days with low humidity. It’s also the best time for outdoor activities such as surfing, kiteboarding, and windboarding. The wet season runs from January to June, and while it can be a beautiful time to visit, there may be a greater chance of rain and humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cumbuco

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the seafood and traditional Brazilian dishes.
  • Explore the natural landscape, including the sand dunes, beaches, and lagoons.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the local culture and history.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disturb wildlife or local ecosystems.
  • Ignore safety recommendations for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cumbuco

Cumbuco is a very safe destination. That said, visitors should always exercise basic safety precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings and being mindful of their surroundings.

Health in Cumbuco

Visitors to Cumbuco should be up to date on all routine vaccinations, including yellow fever. Malaria is also a risk in some parts of Brazil, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before planning your trip.

Getting to Cumbuco: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cumbuco

The closest airport to Cumbuco is the Fortaleza International Airport, which is located about an hour’s drive from the town. From here, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to get to Cumbuco.

Bus Stations Near Cumbuco

There are several bus stations in Fortaleza, with bus routes running regularly between Fortaleza and Cumbuco. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for getting to Cumbuco, with plenty of options available for visitors.

Other Options

In addition to buses and taxis, there are also shuttle services available that can take visitors directly from the airport to their accommodations in Cumbuco.

How to Get Around in Cumbuco

Cumbuco is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, if you’d like to get around a bit faster, there are plenty of taxis and car rental services available. For those looking to explore the surrounding landscape, we recommend renting a bike or ATV.

Where to Go Next from Cumbuco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations worth exploring include the city of Fortaleza, with its vibrant nightlife and delicious food scene. Another great option is the nearby town of Jericoacoara, which is known for its beautiful beaches and eco-tourism activities.

Conclusion

Cumbuco is a beautiful and fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. With this comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring everything that this charming beach town has to offer. Happy travels!

Kite surfing at Cumbuco Kite surfing at Cumbuco