Jericoacoara is a unique spot known for its endless dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. Although it takes a bit of effort to reach this little slice of paradise but trust me—it’s worth it. Luckilythe journey has become much easier thanks to its rising popularity.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting to Jericoacoara, so you can plan the trip that works best for you.
Click here for the full travel guide to Jericoacoara.
Traveling to Jericoacoara
Fastest Way: Getting to Jericoacoara by Plane
The fastest way to get to Jericoacoara is by taking a flight from Fortaleza, the nearest major city.
The flight takes about an hour, and depending on the season, prices range from $50 to $200 USD.
Most Recommended: 4×4 Transfer from Fortaleza to Jeri
If flight prices are high or you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, book a 4×4 transfer directly from Fortaleza airport.
The ride takes around 4-5 hours and costs roughly 550 R$ for the whole vehicle. If you’re sharing the ride with others, expect to pay 150-175 R$ per person.
Pro tip: Join the Car Share Jericoacoara Facebook group to find travel buddies travelers to split the cost with. Post your arrival time on the group, and you’ll often find others looking to share the ride.
You can also contact an agency directly, and they can group you with other travelers arriving around the same time, making it much cheaper. Just search for “Jeri Transfer” on Facebook, and you’ll find plenty of options.
Note: You’ll need to coordinate with drivers via WhatsApp, so make sure to save their contact info for the ride back or for other trips around Jeri, like visiting the lagoons.
Recommended agency: MWturJeri: +55 88 9708-9447
The Long (But Cheapest) Option: Bus and Truck Combo
If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer journey, you can take a bus from Fortaleza to Jijoca, the nearest town with paved roads, and then hop on an open-air truck for the final leg to Jericoacoara.
The bus ride takes about 7-8 hours and costs around 80 BRL. Though it’s a long trip, the bus is reasonably comfortable, with air conditioning and a stop for lunch halfway. Buses leave only four times a day, so planning ahead is essential.
Once you arrive in Jijoca, you’ll switch to a truck for the bumpy, hour-long journey across the dunes to Jericoacoara. While this truck ride is the most economical, it’s not the most comfortable—seats have no padding, and your luggage is strapped to the roof, so be prepared for a bit of a rough ride.
Fair warning: If comfort is important to you, you might want to avoid this option or plan for some extra relaxation (maybe even a massage) once you arrive!
My recommendation: opt for a shared shuttle—it’s worth it!
Can You Drive to Jericoacoara in a Private Vehicle?
It’s highly not recommended to drive yourself to Jericoacoara, even if you have a 4×4. The dunes aren’t marked, and plenty of drivers end up stuck or lost. Plus, private cars aren’t allowed inside the village, so you’d have to park outside and catch a ride into town anyway.
Whether you’re flying in, sharing a 4×4, or taking the bus, there are plenty of ways to get to Jericoacoara that fit your travel style and budget. Whichever route you choose, the beauty of Jericoacoara is well worth the trip!
Ready to explore this hidden gem? Click here for the full guide to Jericoacoara!