Mossoró Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Mossoró, including top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, and logistics.


Introduction to Mossoró

Mossoró is a city located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte in Northeast Brazil. Known as the “Land of Salt,” Mossoró boasts a rich history and unique culture that reflects its proximity to the sea. The city is a popular destination for tourists who are looking to explore Brazil beyond its popular beaches and cities.

In this travel guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at all the best things to do in Mossoró, including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, where to stay, local customs, safety information, and logistics.

List of Places to Visit in Mossoró

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museu Histórico Lauro da Escóssia - This museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It showcases the rich history of Mossoró, with exhibits ranging from the city’s origins to modern times.
  2. Memorial da Resistência - This museum pays tribute to the brave civilians who stood up against political oppression during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
  3. Capela de São Vicente - This historical chapel is a must-visit for those interested in colonial architecture.

Natural Attractions of Mossoró: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Dunas de Rosado - These majestic sand dunes are perfect for a day trip. Visitors can go sandboarding, take a dip in the nearby lagoon, or simply enjoy the spectacular views.
  2. Lajedo de Soledade - This natural park boasts a unique geological formation that is over 600 million years old. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and admire the breathtaking landscapes.
  3. Salinas de Mossoró - These salt marshes are perfect for eco-tourism. Visitors can explore the saline lands by foot, observe the salt extraction process, and enjoy the beautiful views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mossoró

  1. Trilha Ecológica do Betume - This gentle hiking trail is perfect for families. It winds through the lush Betume forest and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
  2. Circuito do Sol - This 23-km bike trail is perfect for those looking to explore Mossoró’s natural beauty. It takes you through beautiful landscapes, including rivers, hills and forests.

Best Things to Do in Mossoró: Activities and Tours

  1. Salt Mine Tour - This tour takes visitors into the heart of Mossoró’s salt mines. Visitors can observe the extraction process, learn about the economic importance of salt to the region, and even taste the salt!
  2. Cajuína Tour - This tour takes visitors into the heart of Mossoró’s cajuína production. Visitors can observe the production process, learn about the cultural significance of cajuína to the region, and even sample the traditional drink.
  3. Trekking to Serra Mossoró - This trekking trail takes visitors to the top of Serra Mossoró. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mossoró

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the city’s history at Museu Histórico Lauro da Escóssia and Capela de São Vicente
Day 2 Hike the Trilha Ecológica do Betume
Day 3 Take a tour of Mossoró’s salt mines
Day 4 Visit Lajedo de Soledade natural park and enjoy a picnic
Day 5 Trek to the top of Serra Mossoró
Day 6 Visit Dunas de Rosado and go sandboarding
Day 7 Take the Cajuína tour and sample the traditional drink

Food and Drink Scene of Mossoró

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Carne de sol com macaxeira - This traditional dish consists of sun-dried meat served with cassava.
  2. Camarão na moranga - This delicious dish is made with fresh shrimp and a creamy pumpkin sauce.
  3. Sarapatel - This dish is made with pork liver and other offal in a rich and flavorful sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Cajuína - This traditional non-alcoholic drink is made from cashew juice and popular throughout Northeast Brazil.
  2. Cachaça - This alcoholic drink is made from sugarcane juice and is a popular ingredient in many Brazilian cocktails.

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

  1. Thermas Hotel & Resort - This luxury hotel boasts natural hot springs, a spa, and a swimming pool.
  2. Hotel Imperial Palace - This comfortable and modern hotel is located in the heart of Mossoró, close to major attractions.
  3. Pousada Aconchego - This cozy guesthouse offers affordable accommodations, a garden, and a terrace.

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

  1. Sal de Mossoró - This salt is known for its high quality and unique flavor.
  2. Castanha de caju - These cashews are a popular snack and souvenir throughout Northeast Brazil.
  3. Redinha Hammocks - These colorful hammocks are a traditional product of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Mossoró

Mossoró has a rich and unique culture that reflects its proximity to the sea. Visitors to Mossoró should be prepared for strong local customs and a unique way of life. Some customs to be aware of include:

  • Respect for elders and families.
  • A love for traditional foods and drinks.
  • A passion for music and dance.

Best Time to Visit Mossoró

The best time to visit Mossoró is between July and January, when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid visiting during the rainy season from February to June.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mossoró

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  3. Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and trekking.

Don’t:

  1. Speak negatively about local customs and traditions.
  2. Drink tap water without filtering it first.
  3. Wear expensive jewelry or watches in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mossoró

Mossoró is generally a safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves from petty crime. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Mossoró

Visitors should take reasonable precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses such as Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and keep windows and doors closed during peak mosquito hours.

Getting to Mossoró: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mossoró

The closest airport to Mossoró is Mossoró Airport, which serves domestic flights from major Brazilian cities.

Bus Stations Near Mossoró

Mossoró has several bus stations that serve major Brazilian cities, including Natal, Fortaleza, and Recife.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to get to Mossoró from nearby cities or airports.

How to Get Around in Mossoró

Mossoró is a small city that is easy to navigate on foot or by taxi. Taxis are available throughout the city and are generally affordable.

Where to Go Next from Mossoró: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Natal - This vibrant coastal city is just a few hours from Mossoró and boasts a beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife.
  2. Jericoacoara - This beautiful beach town is located just across the state border in Ceará and is a popular destination for beach lovers.
  3. Canoa Quebrada - This beautiful beach town is just a short drive from Mossoró and boasts beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe.

Conclusion

Mossoró is a beautiful and unique city in Northeast Brazil that offers visitors a chance to experience Brazil beyond its popular beaches and cities. With its rich history, unique culture, and beautiful natural attractions, we hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan a trip to Mossoró and experience all it has to offer.