Jericoacoara National Park National Park

Address: Jericoacoara National Park, Jijoca de Jericoacoara, Ceará, Brazil

Website: http://www.jijoca.ce.gov.br/ (municipal info)

Admission: Park entrance free; municipal access taxes may apply in Jericoacoara village and dune/park areas (small fees).

Jericoacoara National Park protects coastal dunes, lagoons, beaches and a small traditional village on the north coast of Ceará, known for wind-driven sports and scenic dune landscapes. The park conserves both recreational beaches and fragile dune ecosystems.

The area combines wide sand beaches and shifting dunes with sheltered freshwater lagoons and a strong wind regime that supports kitesurfing and windsurfing. Iconic features include Pedra Furada, a coastal rock arch reachable by foot or dune track, and sunset viewpoints on the principal dune near the village.

Originally a fishing village, Jericoacoara became a protected area to manage tourism growth and preserve dune systems and coastal habitats. Management focuses on limiting road access and controlling development to reduce ecological impact.

Situated on Ceará’s sandy northern coastline, the park is reached via a short inland transfer from the nearest paved highways, with the village of Jericoacoara serving as the principal gateway for visitors.

• Winds and watersports: Strong and reliable winds make the area one of Brazil’s top kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations; wind conditions peak during the dry season.
• Access and local regulation: Access to the village typically involves a transfer by 4x4 vehicles across sandy tracks from the nearest paved road, and local rules protect dune environments from overuse.

What to See#

• Jericoacoara dune fields and beaches: The sand dunes and wide beaches around the village of Jericoacoara, popular for kitesurfing and wind sports due to consistent coastal winds.
• Pedra Furada: The natural rock arch known as Pedra Furada located on a coastal headland and reached by trails from the village and nearby dunes.
• Coastal lagoons: Freshwater lagoons such as Lagoa do Paraíso and Lagoa Azul close to the village, formed in interdunal depressions and popular for swimming and relaxation.

Most visitors reach Jijoca de Jericoacoara by road from Fortaleza (about 4-6 hours). After Jijoca, the last stretch to Jericoacoara village is typically in 4x4 vehicles over sand.

• Jetty permits and 4x4 transfers from Jijoca or Cruz can be necessary - arrange transport in advance.
• Visit Pedra Furada at sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds and see the arch lit dramatically.
• Expect sandy streets: if traveling by private vehicle, park outside and use local buggies to reach the village.