Paracuru Travel Guide

Paracuru is a beautiful beach town in Brazil's Ceará state, with scenic views, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Paracuru

Paracuru is a beautiful beach town located in the Ceará state of northeastern Brazil. The town is known for its scenic coastline, dunes, and excellent outdoor activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Paracuru is also rich in history and culture, with fascinating museums and historic attractions offering visitors an insight into the town’s unique identity.

List of Places to Visit in Paracuru

Here’s a list of some must-see places in Paracuru:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museu do Folclore - A museum dedicated to the preservation of regional folklore and cultural traditions.
  • Igreja da Matriz de São Pedro e São Paulo - A beautiful church that has been standing since the 18th century. It is one of the most significant historical landmarks of Paracuru.
  • Casa da Cultura - A cultural center which offers exhibitions and events promoting the local culture of Paracuru.

Natural Attractions of Paracuru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Praia do Quebra Mar - A popular beach haunt, where tourists, as well as locals, can enjoy the scenic views, flocks of seagulls, and seawater perfect for swimming.
  • Lagoa de Almécegas - A natural freshwater lagoon surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views.
  • Pedra Rachada - A rock formation that is ideal for adventurous hikers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paracuru

Hiking and biking routes are amongst the various exciting activities to do in Paracuru. Exploring the local natural environment is not only good for exercise, but it also offers visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of Paracuru thoroughly.

One of the top hiking/biking routes is the Sentinelas do Vento, which offers stunning views of both the sea and nearby cities.

Best Things to Do in Paracuru: Activities and Tours

Paracuru is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and activities. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Windsurfing and Kitesurfing - Due to the ideal wind conditions and warm water temperatures, Paracuru has become a mecca for enthusiasts of this sport.
  • Paddle Boarding - The calm waters around the town make it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Horseback Riding - Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Paracuru by horseback, making for an unforgettable experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paracuru

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Paracuru:

Day 1: Relax on the beach at Praia do Quebra Mar.

Day 2: Windsurfing or Kitesurfing at sunset.

Day 3: Visit the Museu do Folclore and Igreja da Matriz de São Pedro e São Paulo.

Day 4: Hike the Sentinelas do Vento.

Day 5: Take a tour of the Lagoa de Almécegas and enjoy paddleboarding.

Day 6: Horseback ride through the natural beauty of Paracuru.

Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and enjoy traditional Brazilian food.

Food and Drink Scene of Paracuru

Paracuru offers various delicious dishes and local beverages for visitors to enjoy. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carne-de-sol - A dish made of sun-dried beef, served with rice and beans.
  • Tacacá - A traditional Brazilian stew featuring shrimp, cassava, and jambu leaves in a rich broth.
  • Churrasco - A grilled meat dish that is popular throughout Brazil.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça - A distilled Brazilian spirit made from sugar cane juice.
  • Açaí - A popular Brazilian drink made of crushed berries and served with granola or honey.
  • Cerveja - Brazil is known for its beer, and Paracuru offers a variety of locally brewed options.

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

Paracuru has various types of accommodation that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some options:

  • Eco Paradise Hotel - A luxurious hotel located near the beach, with an outdoor pool and spa.
  • Hotel Venturas - A modern hotel featuring comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Casa Dona Zilda - A budget-friendly guesthouse with clean rooms and friendly service.

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

Besides its stunning scenery, Paracuru offers visitors plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Handmade crafts - Handmade boats, hats, baskets, and clothes, are available at the Casa da Cultura.
  • Cachaça - Local distillers make and sell their cachaça, which is a perfect souvenir to bring home.
  • Biquínis - Swimwear manufacturers based in Paracuru supply high-quality bikinis and swimsuits that follow international fashion trends.

Local Culture and Customs of Paracuru

Paracuru has a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved and celebrated through various events and festivals. Visitors can experience the unique local culture first-hand during celebrations like Carnaval and St. John’s Festa Junina.

Best Time to Visit Paracuru

The best time to visit Paracuru is from September to December. During this period, the town experiences little rainfall and offers perfect weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paracuru

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to follow during your visit to Paracuru.

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few common phrases in Portuguese to facilitate communication with the locals.
  • Use sunscreen as the town is known for having lots of sunlight.

Don’t:

  • Litter on beaches and other public areas.
  • Disrespect local wildlife or the environment.
  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach or on public transport.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paracuru

Paracuru is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should be cautious in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Paracuru

Visitors should avoid drinking tap water and carry bottled water to avoid illness. Additionally, visitors should apply insect repellent to protect themselves from mosquitoes carrying viruses.

Getting to Paracuru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Paracuru is located about 90 kilometers from Fortaleza, the state capital. Visitors can access Paracuru via the following modes of transportation:

Airports Near Paracuru

The nearest airport to Paracuru is the Pinto Martins International Airport in Fortaleza. Visitors can then use a rental car, taxi, or bus to reach the town.

Bus Stations Near Paracuru

There is a bus station in downtown Fortaleza that offers regular services to Paracuru. Visitors can opt to use the public bus service or hire a private taxi bus.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a taxi or self-drive to Paracuru. Alternatively, private guided tours are available for visitors who wish to have a more personalized experience.

How to Get Around in Paracuru

The town itself is small and perfect for walking. However, visitors can also rent bikes, buggies, or hire a taxi to explore the town and surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Paracuru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations that visitors can check out include:

  • Generall Abreu’s Fort
  • Lagoinha Beach
  • Flecheiras Beach

Conclusion

Paracuru is a must-visit destination in Brazil, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, adventurous outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can expect warm weather, friendly local people, and a range of accommodation to fit all budgets.