Coastal village nestled in northern Brésil, Jericoacoara sits roughly 313 kilometers from the city of Fortaleza, in the state of Ceará. Affectionately known as Jeri by locals, it is celebrated for its magnificent sand dunes and stunning blue lagoons scattered throughout the desert at the edge of the town.

The landscape of the surrounding area blends Brésil's tropical greenery with exotic beaches. Gazing upon the sea—sometimes brilliant blue, sometimes emerald green—is a true pleasure. And the many activities on offer, such as surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, deliver thrills to visitors seeking an adrenaline rush.

History

Long before colonization, the Tremembé tribe—indigenous people of the region—lived peacefully within a small fishing village. During the colonial period, the region's beauty quickly caught the attention of major conquerors in the 17th century.

Conflicts then erupted between the Portuguese, Germans, French, and Tremembé Indians as they vied for control of this little corner of paradise. But after the ravages of war, interest in its beautiful beaches waned over the years.

Around 1890, a major drought struck Ceará. Peoples from the surrounding areas migrated to Jericoacoara and established a new fishing village there. Nearly a century later, with tourism in the region suddenly booming, the government decided to establish an environmental protection zone.

In 1994, the Washington Post published an article praising the village. Its shores were then considered the most beautiful beach in the world. And in 2002, faced with the growing influx of visitors, authorities established the Jericoacoara National Park.

Jericoacoara Today

Over the years, the village adapted and was reshaped by the region's growing tourism industry. Today, Jericoacoara is home to over 80 lodges, hotels, and guesthouses. Along with numerous restaurants serving all kinds of local and international cuisine.

Despite the considerable flow of visitors, Jericoacoara National Park has managed to maintain a rustic and peaceful environment. Its surroundings are filled with attractive sites.

The sea breeze and white sand beach of Vila de Jericoacoara are simply magnificent. Lounging in the sun after a refreshing dip redefines the meaning of "relaxation."

Away from the crowds, a small corner of Duna do Pôr-do-sol offers the same pleasure, but in a far more intimate atmosphere. Swimming in its azure blue and turquoise lagoons is an unparalleled experience.

Not far away, to the southwest of town, a short walk through the beautiful mangrove forest of Triha Mangue brings a certain serenity.

Nothing beats a stroll along the rocky beach of Serrote e Farol. Suddenly, a stone archway appears on the horizon. Taking time to contemplate it at sunset inspires a kind of solitude in the hearts of lovers, alone together beneath Pedra Furada.

Moreover, Jericoacoara is also a meeting place for kitesurfing enthusiasts in the region. The wind strength at Trilha de Prea is ideal for practicing this sport. After such thrills, a buggy ride with friends through Trilha Lagoa Grande lets you discover sand dunes and beautiful lagoons where you can relax and soak in the scenery.

Jericoacoara holds many more surprises for its visitors, especially for the curious. At Tatajuba and Mangue Seco, for example, they can discover a small seahorse nursery. And at Praia do Prea, they can behold other beaches of a different kind—calmer and more peaceful.

What to Do in Jericoacoara?

Spending your vacation in Jericoacoara means taking part in all kinds of exciting activities. You can practice kitesurfing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding at Vila de Jericoacoara, Serrote e Farol, and Trilha de Prea. Or try kayaking along the Guriú River.

For those who have never tried these sports, don't worry. The village has several institutions that can teach you the basics. Some even offer capoeira classes. And for the more adventurous, a major windsurfing competition is organized each year during high season.

Certain places are much better suited for vacationers seeking calm. They can relax on Serrote e Farol beach, go hiking at Árvore da Preguiça, or explore the surroundings on horseback.

You absolutely should not miss the sunset at Jericoacoara. At Duna do Pôr do Sol or in the town's cove, you can watch the day's last rays touch the horizon and cast a magnificent green light.

Some Particularities About Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara's time is one hour behind Brasília's. There is no daylight saving time observed there.

Also note that there is a lodging tax you'll need to pay to the village municipality. It is 5 Brazilian Reals per person per day. This amount helps them preserve the surrounding environment. Children under twelve and people over 60 are exempt.

Climate

The region enjoys a warm tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 22 and 35°C in winter.

The rainy season runs from January to June. It is during this period that the beautiful lagoons of Trilha Lagoa Grande form.

So, the ideal time to discover Jericoacoara would be between July and January. You can enjoy the freshly-formed lagoons in July and make the most of the strong winds in August for kitesurfing.

By Air

You can choose to land at Pinto Marins International Airport in Fortaleza, then take a bus or rent a 4x4 from there to Jericoacoara. Some airlines also offer weekly flights to Jericoacoara's regional airport, about 30 km from the village.

By Road

A bus journey from Fortaleza takes an average of seven hours and costs around 50 Brazilian Reals.

As for a 4x4 drive from the city, expect three hours. The advantage of this mode of transport lies in the comfort. The rate is generally 400 to 500 Brazilian Reals for a vehicle that can accommodate four to five people. Upon arriving at the park entrance, the driver slightly deflates the tires to allow the car to roll on the sand.

To preserve the park's environment, driving around the park in a car is normally prohibited. Rental 4x4s typically return to Fortaleza or are left in a parking area at the village entrance. To get around Jericoacoara, you'll need to rent a buggy, bike, or horse.