Introduction to Jericoacoara
Jericoacoara, located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, is a stunning destination known for its remote beauty and unique landscapes. Despite its allure, reaching Jericoacoara can seem challenging to some due to its distance from Fortaleza, approximately 300 km along the western coastline of Ceará. The village is located within a national conservation area, requiring travel along sandy paths instead of conventional roads. However, with the 2017 opening of the Jericoacoara Regional Airport, access to this paradise has greatly improved, with more flights now available.
Flights to Jericoacoara
Travelers heading to Jericoacoara have two options: flying directly to Jericoacoara Regional Airport (JJD) located 30 km from the village or flying into Pinto Martins International Airport in Fortaleza, which is 300 km away.
Direct flights to Jericoacoara are offered by Azul Airlines from Belo Horizonte and Campinas, Gol Airlines from Guarulhos and Brasília, and Latam Airlines from Guarulhos. With an increase in flight options over the years, ticket prices have become competitive with flights to Fortaleza, making flying into Jericoacoara a time-saving and cost-effective choice.
Traveling by Car
For those planning to drive, it’s important to be skilled in driving on sandy terrain, as getting stuck is common. Visitors must leave their vehicles in a parking lot at the entrance of the village since cars are not allowed inside. Jericoacoara is part of the Jijoca de Jericoacoara municipality, and a sustainable tourism fee is charged to enter the village. The fee is fixed for up to 10 days of stay and can be paid online. Children under 12 and seniors over 60 are exempt.
Transfers to Jericoacoara
Once at the airport, travelers need to arrange a transfer to reach the village. The journey is typically made by 4x4 vehicles, which navigate along the beach and sand dunes. The vehicles stop at the entrance of Jericoacoara National Park to adjust tire pressure for smoother travel on the sand.
Both private and shared transfer options are available through hotels and pousadas in Jericoacoara and surrounding areas. Many drivers also offer their services directly at the airport.
Journey from Fortaleza to Jericoacoara
4x4 Transfer from Fortaleza
The most comfortable option is to book a 4x4 transfer. The drive takes about five hours, mostly along a paved road, with the final leg through the dunes, where tire pressure is adjusted. Travelers can book either private or shared transfers, with shared options offering lower costs for solo travelers or couples. However, shared transfers may require flexibility with other travelers' flight schedules.
Bus from Fortaleza to Jericoacoara
Another option is to take a bus from Fortaleza to Jericoacoara with Expresso Guanabara. The 7-hour journey, while longer, is comfortable, with executive seating and sleeper options. The bus drops passengers at Jijoca, where a jardineira (local vehicle) completes the journey through the dunes.
Driving from Fortaleza to Jericoacoara
For those driving from Fortaleza, the recommended route is the CE-085 highway, also known as Estruturante. Although it is mostly a regular road, using GPS is advised due to limited signage. From Jijoca or Praia do Preá, the last leg of the trip involves driving on sandy trails with no signs. Hiring a guide is highly recommended, especially for unfamiliar travelers, as the paths are challenging.
Conclusion
Jericoacoara, though remote, offers an unforgettable experience, and with various transport options, reaching this paradise is easier than ever. Whether arriving by air, bus, or car, the journey is part of the adventure, making Jericoacoara an even more enticing destination.
