Jijoca de Jericoacoara, Brazil: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that until the 1990s, Jericoacoara was a completely isolated fishing village, accessible only by crossing towering sand dunes and pristine lagoons? Today, this hidden paradise in northeastern Brazil has transformed into one of South America’s most magical beach destinations while still maintaining its car-free, laid-back charm. Located within a national park, “Jeri” (as locals call it) offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation that feels worlds away from Brazil’s bustling cities.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching Jericoacoara is part of the adventure, as its remote location requires some planning. The village sits within Jericoacoara National Park in the state of Ceará, about 300 km from Fortaleza, the state capital.

By Air

The most convenient option is flying into Jericoacoara Airport (JJD), located in Cruz, about 35 km from the village. Several Brazilian airlines offer direct flights from major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Fortaleza. From the airport, you’ll need to arrange a 4×4 transfer to reach the village.

Via Fortaleza

Many international travelers fly into Fortaleza’s Pinto Martins International Airport (FOR) and continue to Jericoacoara from there. You have several options:

• Private transfer: The most comfortable option, taking about 4-5 hours (300 km)
• Public bus: Budget-friendly but takes 6-7 hours with a transfer to a 4×4 vehicle in Jijoca
• Rental car: Only recommended if you’re comfortable driving in Brazil and navigating to the parking area in Jijoca

Important: Regular vehicles cannot enter Jericoacoara village. If driving yourself, you must park in Jijoca and take a 4×4 transfer for the final leg through the dunes.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Jericoacoara enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but there are distinct wet and dry seasons that significantly impact your experience.

Recommended Months to Visit

Seasonal Considerations

• High Season: January, July, August, December, and Brazilian holidays
• Low Season: February-June, September-November (except holidays)
• Wind Season: July-January (peak in August) – ideal for kitesurfing
• Temperature: Average of 35°C (95°F) in summer and 22°C (72°F) in winter

For the perfect balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds, aim for September to early November. You’ll enjoy sunny days, steady winds for water sports, and more availability at hotels and restaurants.

Getting Around Locally

One of Jericoacoara’s most charming aspects is that it’s a car-free village. The streets are made entirely of sand, and the laid-back atmosphere is preserved by the absence of regular vehicles.

Within the Village

• On Foot: The village is small and easily walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a 15-minute walk of each other.
• Bicycles: Available for rent at many hotels and shops, perfect for exploring the village and nearby beaches.

Exploring the National Park

• Buggy Tours: The most popular way to explore the surrounding dunes, beaches, and lagoons. Buggies can be rented with drivers for half-day or full-day excursions.
• 4×4 Transfers: Known locally as “jardineiras,” these modified pickup trucks can take you to nearby attractions.
• Horseback Riding: A romantic way to explore the beaches and dunes, especially at sunset.

Tip: For buggy tours, you can either book through your hotel, a local agency, or directly with drivers. Prices are typically per buggy (not per person), so it’s more economical to share with other travelers if you’re solo or a couple.

Where to Stay in Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious boutique hotels. Most places feature a distinctive rustic-chic style that blends with the natural surroundings.

Best Areas to Stay

• Village Center: Stay in the heart of Jeri for easy access to restaurants, bars, and the main beach. Perfect for first-time visitors.
• Malhada Beach: Slightly quieter area with beachfront properties, just a short walk from the center.
• Preá Beach: Located about 12 km from Jeri, this area is ideal for kitesurfers and those seeking more seclusion.

Accommodation Recommendations

Tip: Look for accommodations with air conditioning and a pool. After a day exploring the dunes and beaches, you’ll appreciate these amenities to cool off and relax.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Jericoacoara’s cuisine reflects its coastal location, with an abundance of fresh seafood and tropical fruits. The village offers everything from casual beachside eateries to sophisticated restaurants serving international cuisine.

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Moqueca: A delicious Brazilian seafood stew made with fish, shrimp, or lobster, coconut milk, palm oil, and vegetables.
• Tapioca: A gluten-free pancake made from cassava flour, filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
• Caipirinhas: Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar. Try the passionfruit variation for a tropical twist.
• Fresh Lobster: Available at surprisingly affordable prices compared to many other destinations.

Top Restaurants in Jericoacoara

Tip: For budget-friendly meals, check out the takeaway options on São Francisco Street in the evenings. Also, seafood is often cheaper when paying in cash rather than by card.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Jericoacoara offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, relaxation, and adventure. Here are the must-see attractions and activities that should be on every visitor’s list.

Natural Landmarks

Pedra Furada

This iconic natural stone arch is Jericoacoara’s most famous landmark. The 1-2 hour hike to reach it offers stunning coastal views. In July, the sun aligns perfectly to shine through the “hole” in the rock at sunset, creating a magical photo opportunity.

Duna do Pôr do Sol (Sunset Dune)

Every evening, visitors climb this massive sand dune to witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. It’s a daily ritual in Jeri, often accompanied by spontaneous capoeira performances and applause as the sun disappears below the horizon.

Beaches & Lagoons

Other Notable Attractions

• Árvore da Preguiça (Lazy Tree): A wind-sculpted tree that has become a popular photo spot.
• Mangue Seco: An area with dried mangrove trees creating an otherworldly landscape.
• Buraco Azul (Blue Hole): A stunning blue lagoon with high calcium carbonate content giving it a vibrant color.
• Tatajuba: A remote area with dunes, lagoons, and a sand-sledding hill.

Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Jericoacoara is primarily known for its natural beauty, the village also offers rich cultural experiences that provide insight into northeastern Brazilian traditions.

Music & Dance

• Forró: This traditional northeastern Brazilian music and dance style is popular throughout Jeri. Visit Forró de Trás da Igreja on Sunday nights for authentic performances.
• Samba: Check out Samba da Benção on Friday nights for lively samba music and dancing.
• Live Music: Venues like Café Jeri, Quintal Jericoacoara, and Espaço Serramar Jeri host regular live music events.

Annual Festivals

• Festas Juninas (June Festivals): Celebrating saints’ days with traditional food, music, and dance.
• Kitesurfing Championships: International competitions that bring top athletes to the region, usually held between August and November.
• New Year’s Eve: A major celebration in Jeri, though extremely crowded. Book accommodations well in advance if visiting during this period.

Note: While the village itself doesn’t have formal museums or historical sites, the traditional fishing culture and the transformation from isolated hamlet to international destination make for fascinating conversations with locals.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Jericoacoara is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering perfect conditions for various water sports and land-based activities amid stunning natural landscapes.

Water Sports

Kitesurfing & Windsurfing

Jeri is world-renowned for its consistent winds, making it one of the best kitesurfing destinations globally. Preá Beach, just 12 km from the village, offers ideal conditions for beginners and experts alike. Numerous schools offer lessons and equipment rental.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Surfing

The calm waters of Jericoacoara’s lagoons are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, while Malhada Beach offers good surfing conditions, especially for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Land Activities

• Buggy Tours: The most popular way to explore the national park, with options for west coast (Tatajuba, Guriú) or east coast (Lagoa do Paraíso, Preá) excursions.
• Horseback Riding: Explore the beaches and dunes on horseback, particularly magical at sunset.
• Hiking: Trails to Pedra Furada and the Jericoacoara Lighthouse offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Sand Boarding: Try sliding down the steep dunes on specially designed boards.

Nature Experiences

• Seahorse Observation: Take a canoe through the Guriú River to spot seahorses in their natural habitat among the mangroves.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Jericoacoara offers exceptional stargazing opportunities.
• Bird Watching: The diverse ecosystems of the national park attract numerous bird species.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Jericoacoara is generally safer than many other tourist destinations in Brazil, but it’s still important to take basic precautions and respect local customs.

Safety Tips

• Don’t leave valuables unattended at the beach or in restaurants.
• Be cautious in dark alleys at night, especially if you’re alone or have been drinking.
• Wear footwear on the main beach to avoid parasites like chigoe fleas.
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen regularly – the sun is intense year-round.
• Stay hydrated, especially when exploring the dunes or during water sports.

Local Etiquette

• Jeri is very casual – no need for formal attire anywhere in the village.
• High heels are impractical on the sandy streets; stick to sandals or go barefoot.
• Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (10% is standard).
• Respect the natural environment – don’t take shells, rocks, or other natural items.
• Ask permission before photographing local people, especially fishermen.

Sustainable Tourism

As a national park, Jericoacoara’s ecosystem is fragile. Help preserve its beauty by:

• Paying the Sustainable Tourism Tax (R$41.50 per person for up to 10 days).
• Using biodegradable sunscreen and natural insect repellent.
• Choosing aluminum cans over glass bottles (they’re recycled at higher rates).
• Bringing reusable water bottles, bags, and straws.
• Avoiding visiting during peak periods like New Year’s Eve to prevent overtourism.

Practical Travel Tips

Money Matters

• Cash is King: There are no ATMs in the village, so bring enough Brazilian reais for your stay.
• Card Acceptance: Most establishments accept credit cards, but you’ll often get better deals when paying cash.
• Tourism Tax: The R$41.50 Sustainable Tourism Tax can be paid online before arrival or in cash upon entering the village.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Sandals or flip-flops (no high heels)
• Biodegradable sunscreen and natural insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle, bag, and straw
• Hat and sunglasses
• Basic medications (the local pharmacy has limited supplies)
• Camera cleaning kit (sand and salt air can damage electronics)

Communication

• Mobile coverage is generally good in the village but can be spotty in remote areas.
• Most hotels, restaurants, and cafés offer Wi-Fi, though it may not be high-speed.
• Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will be appreciated by locals.

Sample 4-Day Itinerary

Conclusion

Jericoacoara is truly one of Brazil’s most magical destinations – a place where time seems to slow down and nature takes center stage. From the moment your feet touch the sandy streets of this car-free village, you’ll understand why travelers from around the world fall in love with “Jeri.” Whether you’re seeking adventure through kitesurfing and dune buggying, relaxation in hammocks over crystal-clear lagoons, or simply the perfect beach sunset, Jericoacoara delivers unforgettable experiences in a setting of extraordinary natural beauty.

The journey to reach this remote paradise is part of the adventure, and once you arrive, you might find yourself extending your stay – a common occurrence among visitors enchanted by Jeri’s unique atmosphere. So pack your sandals (but leave the high heels at home), bring plenty of cash, and prepare to discover why this once-isolated fishing village has become one of South America’s most cherished beach destinations.