Jericoacoara Travel Guide: Brazil’s Hidden Paradise in the Dunes

Tucked away in northeastern Brazil, Jericoacoara — or simply “Jeri” — is a remote beach town surrounded by vast sand dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and a laid-back bohemian atmosphere. Once a sleepy fishing village, Jeri has become one of Brazil’s most beloved destinations for eco-tourists, kitesurfers, and free spirits.
 

With no paved streets, a strict no-streetlight policy, and jaw-dropping natural beauty, Jericoacoara offers something many places no longer can: authenticity.

🧭 Quick Facts About Jericoacoara

Location: Ceará, northeast Brazil (300 km from Fortaleza)

Population: ~20,000 (including surrounding area)

Access: 4x4 vehicles only; airport in Cruz (JJD)

Climate: Tropical and windy — perfect for water sports

Best time to visit: July to December (dry & windy season)

🏖️ Top Things to Do in Jericoacoara

1. Watch the Sunset from Duna do Pôr do Sol (Sunset Dune)

Every evening, locals and visitors climb this large dune west of town to watch the sun set directly into the ocean — a rare sight on Brazil’s east-facing coast.

🎶 Expect live music, sandboarders, and clapping when the sun dips below the horizon.

2. Relax in Hammocks at Lagoa do Paraíso

This stunning freshwater lagoon is known for its turquoise waters and hammocks floating in the shallows. Located about 30 minutes from town by buggy or quad.

🏖️ Tip: Visit Alchymist Beach Club for food, drinks, and great Instagram-worthy spots.

3. Kitesurfing and Windsurfing

Jericoacoara is a world-class wind destination. From June to January, strong and steady winds draw professionals and beginners alike.

🏄 Lessons and rentals are available for:

Kitesurfing

Windsurfing

Wing foiling

🌊 Try it at Preá Beach, just 15 minutes away.

4. Visit Pedra Furada (The Iconic Rock Arch)

One of Jeri’s most famous natural landmarks, Pedra Furada is a large rock with a natural hole, located by the sea. It’s about a 40-minute scenic walk along the coast from the village.

📸 Visit between July and August to see the sun set through the arch!

5. Explore by Dune Buggy or ATV (Quad Bike)

Dune buggy and ATV tours are a must in Jeri. They take you across desert landscapes to:

Lagoa Azul

Pedra Furada

Mangue Seco

Tree of laziness (Árvore da Preguiça)

🛺 Tours usually last half or full day and depart from your hotel.

🗺️ Nearby Destinations from Jericoacoara

Preá: A kitesurfing hotspot with quieter vibes

Tatajuba: Home to another famous lagoon and moving sand dunes

Camocim: A larger coastal town offering boat tours and seafood

⛵ Boat tours and transfers between these spots can be arranged easily.

📅 Best Time to Visit Jericoacoara

☀️ Even during the rainy season, rain tends to fall in short bursts.

💨 Wind season (for kitesurfing) is strongest from August to November.

🏨 Where to Stay in Jericoacoara

🌟 Luxury:

Essenza Hotel – Directly in front of the beach with private pool balconies

The Chili Beach Resort – Boutique-style with gourmet cuisine and ocean views

💰 Mid-range:

Vila Kalango – Eco-chic, treehouse-style bungalows near the beach

Pousada Carcará – Excellent value with great amenities and location

💵 Budget:

Pousada Surfing Jeri – Simple, clean, surfer-friendly

Casa de Areia Hostel – Great vibe and price for backpackers

📍 Tip: Book at least 2–3 months in advance during high season and holidays.

🍲 What to Eat in Jericoacoara

Despite its small size, Jeri offers delicious local and international cuisine, often with oceanfront views.

Local Dishes to Try:

Camarão na moranga – Shrimp in a pumpkin with cheese and coconut

Moqueca de peixe – Brazilian fish stew

Tapioca crepes – Made from cassava, filled sweet or savory

Grilled lobster or octopus – Fresh and flavorful!

🦞 Seafood is caught daily — don’t miss the grilled lobster at Na Casa Dela.

Best Restaurants in Jericoacoara:

🍽️ Na Casa Dela – Quirky and romantic with great seafood

🍕 Pimenta Verde – Local Brazilian and Italian fusion

🍷 Bistrô Gonçalves – Cozy and upscale

🥥 Naturalmente – Healthy bowls, açaí, and smoothies

☕ For coffee and pastries, head to Padaria Santo Antônio — open at 2 a.m. for fresh bread!

🍹 Nightlife in Jericoacoara

Though Jeri is laid-back by day, it becomes surprisingly lively at night.

Forró on the beach: Local dance parties under the stars

Samba do Kite: Great music and vibes

Café Jeri: Upscale lounge with DJs, sunset parties, and pool vibes

Planeta Jeri: Live music, caipirinhas, and a local crowd

💃 Don’t leave without dancing forró, the region’s traditional dance style.

✈️ How to Get to Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara is remote and adventurous to reach — part of its charm.

🚗 From Fortaleza:

Distance: ~300 km (about 6–7 hours by road)

Options:

Private 4x4 transfer: Most comfortable

Shared vans: Budget-friendly

Self-drive SUV: Possible but requires off-road skills

✈️ By Air:

Jericoacoara Airport (JJD) in Cruz – ~45 min from town

Flights from São Paulo, Recife, and other major hubs

Airport transfers via 4x4 can be booked in advance

🛻 The last 40 km to Jeri go through dunes — only 4x4 vehicles allowed inside the park.

🌐 Travel Tips for Jericoacoara

No streetlights: Bring a flashlight or use your phone

No cars in the village: Walk, ride dune buggies, or quad bikes

No paved roads: Wear sturdy sandals or flip-flops

Power outages: Rare but possible — pack a power bank

Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL); bring cash as ATMs are limited

🌱 Jericoacoara is part of a national park — respect the environment and follow local conservation rules.

🛍️ What to Buy in Jericoacoara

Handcrafted jewelry made from natural seeds and stones

Colorful hammocks and beachwear

Organic skincare from local ingredients (like açaí and cupuaçu)

Painted tiles and local art

🧴 Support artisans and eco-conscious brands in the village.

🌿 Sustainable Tourism in Jericoacoara

Jeri is a protected area within the Jericoacoara National Park, so sustainable travel is essential.

How to travel responsibly:

Don’t litter (carry reusable water bottles and bags)

Avoid tours that exploit wildlife

Respect beach access rules

Support eco-lodges and local businesses

🌍 By being mindful, you help preserve this paradise for generations to come.

📌 Final Thoughts: Is Jericoacoara Worth Visiting?

100% yes.

Jericoacoara is one of Brazil’s most magical destinations — a place where the desert meets the sea, where sunsets are celebrated like rituals, and where time seems to slow down. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural discovery, Jeri delivers it all with raw beauty and warm hospitality.

So kick off your shoes, let the wind tangle your hair, and fall in love with this sandy slice of paradise.

✅ Quick Jericoacoara Travel Checklist

🧢 Hat & sunglasses

🧴 High SPF sunscreen

🧍‍♂️ Comfortable shoes/sandals for sand

🧥 Light jacket for breezy nights

📲 Offline map & flashlight app

💵 Cash in BRL

✨ Start Your Journey to Jericoacoara Today!

Ready to explore Brazil’s most breathtaking coastal escape? Book your trip to Jericoacoara and get ready for unforgettable sunsets, salt in your hair, and soul-soothing beauty that will stay with you long after the dunes fade in your rearview mirror.