Ceará is a state in northeastern Brazil known for its beautiful beaches, unique landscapes, and vibrant culture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to this amazing destination. That's why we've put together a list of the 10 best things to do in Ceará in 2023. From exploring historical sites to soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, there's something for everyone in this diverse state.
1. Visit the Beaches of Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara is a remote beach town located on the northern coast of Ceará. It's known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and sand dunes. Visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach, hiking the sand dunes, or enjoying water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking scenery, Jericoacoara is a must-see destination in Ceará.
2. Explore the Historic City of Fortaleza
Fortaleza is the capital of Ceará and a hub of culture, history, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and historical sites, including the Fortaleza Cathedral, the Central Market, and the Dragão do Mar Cultural Center. Fortaleza is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
3. Discover the Serra de Baturité Mountains
The Serra de Baturité Mountains are a mountain range located in the interior of Ceará. Visitors can explore the area's lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails, or visit charming towns like Guaramiranga and Baturité. With its cool climate and stunning natural beauty, the Serra de Baturité Mountains offer a refreshing escape from the heat of the coast.
4. Experience the Beauty of Canoa Quebrada
Canoa Quebrada is a beach town located about 170 km south of Fortaleza. It's known for its colorful cliffs, sand dunes, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the beach, exploring the town's shops and restaurants, or taking a buggy tour of the sand dunes. Canoa Quebrada is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
5. Visit the Beaches of Cumbuco
Cumbuco is a beach town located about 30 km west of Fortaleza. It's known for its white sand beaches, warm waters, and excellent kiteboarding conditions. Visitors can take kiteboarding lessons, rent equipment, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery, Cumbuco is a must-visit destination in Ceará.
6. Explore the Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a unique landscape located on the border between Ceará and Maranhão. It's known for its sand dunes, lagoons, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park's many hiking trails, swim in the crystal-clear lagoons, or take a guided tour of the area. Lençóis Maranhenses is a truly unforgettable destination in Ceará.
7. Discover the Charm of Jericoacoara National Park
Jericoacoara National Park is located on the coast of Ceará and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and sand dunes. Visitors can explore the park's many hiking trails, swim in the lagoons, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With its unique landscape and natural beauty, Jericoacoara National Park is a must-see destination in Ceará.
8. Learn About the Culture of the Indigenous
"Peoples of Ceará"
Ceará is home to many indigenous peoples, including the Tremembé, the Tapeba, and the Anacé. Visitors can learn about their rich history and culture by visiting museums and cultural centers in cities like Fortaleza and Sobral. The Tremembé Indigenous Land is also located in Ceará and is open to visitors who want to learn more about the daily lives and traditions of these indigenous communities.
9. Enjoy the Natural Pools of Morro Branco
Morro Branco is a beach town located about 85 km east of Fortaleza. It's known for its unique landscape of red and white sand cliffs and natural pools. Visitors can take a buggy tour of the area, swim in the natural pools, or explore the town's many shops and restaurants. Morro Branco is a great destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back beach experience.
10. Take a Trip to the Historic Town of Sobral
Sobral is a historic town located in the interior of Ceará. It's known for its colonial architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town's many museums, churches, and historical sites, including the Sobral Museum of Contemporary Art and the Palace of the Lions. Sobral is also known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year.
11. Visit the Beautiful Canoa Quebrada Beach
Canoa Quebrada is a picturesque beach located about 165 km southeast of Fortaleza. Known for its colorful cliffs and clear waters, this beach is a popular destination for tourists looking for a relaxing day in the sun. Visitors can take a dip in the warm waters, go for a walk along the beach, or enjoy some of the many restaurants and bars located in the town. Canoa Quebrada is also a great spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with reliable winds throughout the year.
12. Explore the Serra da Meruoca National Park
The Serra da Meruoca National Park is a beautiful nature reserve located in the northwest of Ceará. It's home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Visitors can take a hike through the park's many trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to several waterfalls and natural pools, making it a great destination for swimming and picnicking.
13. Go Dune Buggy Riding in Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara is a small fishing village located about 300 km west of Fortaleza. It's known for its stunning sand dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can take a dune buggy tour of the area, which includes stops at several of the town's most beautiful spots, including the Blue Lagoon and the Pedra Furada rock formation. Jericoacoara is also a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with excellent conditions for these sports.
14. Visit the Historic Center of Fortaleza
Fortaleza is the capital city of Ceará and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city's historic center is home to many beautiful buildings and monuments, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Market. Visitors can take a walking tour of the area, which includes stops at several of the city's most important sites. Fortaleza is also a great destination for nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants located in the city center.
15. Experience the São João Festival in Cariri
The São João Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Ceará and is celebrated throughout the state in June. The festival is known for its lively music, traditional food, and colorful decorations. The city of Cariri, located in the south of the state, is one of the best places to experience the festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional dances, try local delicacies, and join in the fun with locals and tourists alike.
16. Visit the Museums in Fortaleza
Fortaleza has several interesting museums that are worth a visit. The Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture is one of the most popular, with exhibitions and events related to the arts, history, and culture of Ceará. The Museum of Ceará is also a must-visit, showcasing the state's rich history and cultural heritage. And for those interested in contemporary art, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Ceará is a great option.
17. Take a Boat Tour of the Delta do Parnaíba
The Delta do Parnaíba is a stunning natural reserve located on the border between Ceará and the neighboring state of Piauí. The delta is formed by the Parnaíba River as it flows into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique ecosystem of mangroves, sand dunes, and lagoons. Visitors can take a boat tour of the area, which includes stops at several of the delta's most beautiful spots, such as the Ilha das Canárias and the Baía do Caju.
18. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Ceará is known for its delicious food, with a cuisine that reflects the state's diverse cultural influences. Some of the most popular dishes include carne de sol (sun-dried beef), feijão verde (green beans), and macaxeira (cassava). Visitors can try these and many other local specialties at the state's many restaurants and food stalls. And for those looking for something sweet, Ceará is also famous for its desserts, such as bolo de rolo (a rolled cake with guava filling) and cartola (a fried banana dessert with cheese and cinnamon).
19. Explore the Beaches of Jericoacoara National Park
Jericoacoara National Park is a protected area located in the west of Ceará, known for its stunning beaches and sand dunes. Visitors can take a hike through the park's many trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to several beaches, such as Praia do Preá and Praia da Malhada, which are popular with surfers and kiteboarders. And for those looking for a more secluded experience, there are several hidden beaches and coves to explore.
20. Attend the Fortaleza Carnival
The Fortaleza Carnival is one of the biggest and most popular events in Ceará, attracting visitors from all over Brazil and beyond. The carnival takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday and features parades, live music, and street parties. Visitors can join in the fun with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and colorful costumes. And for those who want to escape the crowds, there are also several quieter events and parties to attend throughout the city.
21. Take a Dune Buggy Ride in Canoa Quebrada
Canoa Quebrada is a beach town located about 160 kilometers east of Fortaleza, known for its towering sand dunes and crystal-clear waters. One of the most popular activities in Canoa Quebrada is taking a dune buggy ride, which allows visitors to explore the area's natural beauty and get an adrenaline rush at the same time. The buggy rides usually take around two hours and include stops at several lookout points, such as the famous Pedra Furada rock formation.
22. Visit the Historic Center of Sobral
Sobral is a city located about 230 kilometers northwest of Fortaleza, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city's historic center is a must-visit, with several well-preserved buildings and monuments that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Some of the most notable attractions include the Sobral Cathedral, the Sobrado Dr. José Lourenço, and the Casa da Cultura. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city's charming streets and squares, stopping at local shops and cafes along the way.
23. Explore the Serra da Meruoca Mountains
The Serra da Meruoca is a mountain range located about 240 kilometers northwest of Fortaleza, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The area is home to several species of plants and animals that are unique to the region, as well as several waterfalls and natural pools. Visitors can take a hike through the mountains, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views along the way. And for those who want to spend more time in the area, there are several camping and glamping options available.
24. Go Horseback Riding in Quixadá
Quixadá is a city located about 160 kilometers southwest of Fortaleza, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cowboy culture. One of the best ways to experience the area's natural beauty is by taking a horseback ride, which allows visitors to explore the countryside at a leisurely pace. The rides usually take around two hours and include stops at several lookout points, such as the Pedra da Galinha Choca and the Morro do Chapéu. Visitors can also learn about the area's cowboy traditions and enjoy a traditional meal at one of the local ranches.
25. Visit the Sanctuary of Fátima in Juazeiro do Norte
Juazeiro do Norte is a city located about 530 kilometers south of Fortaleza, known for its strong religious traditions and the Sanctuary of Fátima. The sanctuary is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Brazil, attracting millions of visitors each year. The complex includes several chapels, monuments, and museums related to the life and legacy of Father Cícero, a local priest who is revered as a saint by many in the region. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and attend a mass or prayer service, experiencing the area's deep spiritual significance.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ceará is a wonderful destination with many attractions for visitors to explore. From beautiful beaches and natural parks to historic cities and cultural festivals, there's something for everyone in this amazing state. By checking out our list of the 15 best things to do in Ceará in 2023, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant and exciting part of Brazil.
Ceará is a state in northeastern Brazil that offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities to enjoy. From its stunning beaches and sand dunes to its charming towns and historic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse region.
Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a chance to learn more about Brazilian culture and history, Ceará has plenty to offer. Some of the top activities to enjoy include swimming and sunbathing on the beaches of Fortaleza, exploring the charming towns of Jericoacoara and Canoa Quebrada, and taking a hike through the Serra da Meruoca mountains.
Visitors can also learn about the region's rich cowboy culture in Quixadá, attend a religious service at the Sanctuary of Fátima in Juazeiro do Norte, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets of Sobral. And with a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to rustic camping sites, there is something to suit every budget and taste.
Overall, Ceará is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Brazil, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure that is sure to leave a lasting impression.