Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
06/08/2025
Victor Barbosa, Pexels
Jericoacoara, often called Jeri, is a captivating fishing village nestled within a National Park in Ceará, Brazil, renowned for its pristine beaches, vast sand dunes, and tranquil lagoons. It offers a blend of serene natural beauty and thrilling activities for visitors.
The village offers a lively social scene, especially after sunset, with bars and live Forró music creating a vibrant atmosphere. The central square often fills with people at night, and various establishments offer a pleasant environment for socializing. Lagoons like Lagoa do Paraíso also feature relaxed, communal areas with hammocks over the water, providing spots for interaction.
Top 6 Things to do in Jericoacoara
Activities in Jericoacoara predominantly involve exploring its unique natural landscapes of sand dunes and lagoons, enjoying water sports, and experiencing the iconic sunset.
1. Dune Buggy Tours (East and West Coasts)
Embark on exhilarating dune buggy tours to explore the expansive Jericoacoara National Park. The East Coast tour typically visits landmarks like the Árvore da Preguiça (Lazy Tree), the crystal-clear waters of Lagoa do Paraíso (Paradise Lagoon) and Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), and the stunning Barrinha beach. The West Coast tour ventures to Mangue Seco, the Guriú River for a seahorse ecotour, and Tatajuba Lagoon, often including opportunities for sandboarding or zip-lining down dunes. These tours provide an excellent way to cover significant ground and access remote natural beauty.
Cost: Private buggy tours typically range from R$500 to R$900 for a group of up to four people, lasting approximately 5-7 hours. Shared buggy tours or 'jardineira' (open-air 4x4 truck) options are also available, costing around R$70 to R$100 per person.
Transport: Buggy tours depart from the center of Jericoacoara village. The village itself is small and walkable, so reaching the departure points is easy.
2. Sunset at Duna do Pôr do Sol
Experience the daily ritual of ascending the Duna do Pôr do Sol (Sunset Dune) to witness the sun descend over the ocean horizon. This iconic activity offers panoramic views of the village, the sea, and the surrounding dunes. The atmosphere is celebratory, with locals and visitors gathering to applaud the sunset.
Cost: Free.
Transport: The Duna do Pôr do Sol is located at the edge of Jericoacoara village and is easily accessible by a short walk from the center.
3. Visit Lagoa do Paraíso and Lagoa Azul
Spend a relaxing day at the tranquil freshwater lagoons, Lagoa do Paraíso and Lagoa Azul. These lagoons are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and the iconic hammocks suspended over the water, offering a unique spot to unwind and cool off. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the serene environment.
Cost: Access to the lagoons is typically included in buggy tours. If traveling independently, a taxi or shared 4x4 (jardineira) can be hired. Food and drinks at lakeside establishments are extra.
Transport: The lagoons are located a short distance outside the village. They are usually visited as part of the East Coast buggy tour. Alternatively, local 4x4 vehicles can provide transport.
4. Hike to Pedra Furada
Hike to Pedra Furada, Jericoacoara's famous natural rock arch. This landmark is particularly striking when the sun aligns perfectly through its opening. The best time to walk along the beach to Pedra Furada is during low tide, offering an enjoyable coastal trek. Alternatively, a path over a hill known as Serrote provides a different perspective.
Cost: Free to visit. Some tours may include it.
Transport: Pedra Furada can be reached by walking east along the beach from Jericoacoara village (approximately 30-45 minutes one way during low tide) or via a trail over Serrote hill. Buggy tours to the East Coast often include a stop here.
5. Kitesurfing and Windsurfing
Jericoacoara is a globally recognized destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its consistent strong winds, especially from August to January. Various spots offer conditions suitable for different skill levels, from flat water lagoons to areas with waves. Equipment rental and lessons are widely available.
Cost: Equipment rental prices vary; expect to pay around €30-€60 per hour or more for longer rentals, with local prices potentially 10% higher than pre-booked rates. Lessons are also available at varying costs. (Based on 2025 prices in Euros, conversion to BRL/USD fluctuates).
Transport: While the main beach in Jericoacoara is suitable for windsurfing, kitesurfers often travel by buggy to nearby flat-water lagoons like Guriú or Tatajuba for optimal conditions.
6. Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience the unique sensation of horseback riding along Jericoacoara's expansive beaches, exploring nearby hills, or visiting sights like Pedra Furada and dry mangroves. Horses are well-accustomed to the activity, and guides can accompany or lead the horses for less experienced riders.
Cost: Approximately R$50 per hour.
Transport: Horses can be rented directly in the village or arranged through local tour operators. The rides typically start from the village and explore the surrounding coastal areas.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
