Mandala Hostel

Shimmering freshwater lagoons, turquoise ocean and undulating sand dunes entice visitors to Jericoacoara, a resort town on Brazil's eastern coast. You can only access the town through paths over sand – natural beauty is the name of the game here. Dramatic sunsets make it perfect for a sundowner (or two) and lights spill out from lively restaurants and bars as night falls. Life here is relaxed, from laid-back shop opening hours to the potential for meeting a wandering mule out enjoying a walk.

Jericoacoara hostels tend to be cool and creative with an atmosphere to match. You can stay in a rustic bungalow, modern accommodation decorated with murals or a hostel with an outdoor pool. Expect gardens with hammocks to swing in, kitchens where you can prepare your own food and social areas with pool tables or TVs. Stay in a Jericoacoara hostel with a free breakfast to help start your day. Some hostels cater to digital nomads, with free Wi-Fi and communal workspaces. 

Jericoacoara is small and easy to walk around. In the centre, Principal Square is filled with places to eat and drink. Shallow Jericoacoara Beach has kitesurfing and a host of other activities (including capoeira). It's also one of the best spots in Brazil for watching the sun set over the ocean – climb up Sunset Dune for the best view. You can hike through the rolling dunes and wild nature of Jericoacoara National Park or drive along the coast to nearby towns Preá and Guriú.

The most iconic site in Jericoacoara is Pedra Furada. This arched rock formation, worn down by crashing waves, is a 2-hour coastal stroll from the centre. The town is set in expansive Jericoacoara National Park, which includes Jericoacoara Lighthouse, natural tide pools at rocky Malhada Beach, and is home to wild donkeys. Nightlife is concentrated on the town's main road, where both caipirinhas – Brazil's national cocktail – and music flow freely.

Jericoacoara Airport is approximately 33km from Jericoacoara, which takes 1 hour by taxi. Fortaleza International Airport, about 4 to 6 hours away by taxi or bus, is the closest place to fly into from abroad. Once in Jericoacoara, walking is the best way to get around. For exploration outside the town, it's easy to charter a dune buggy and driver. You won't be able to bring a car into the centre – if you'd like to drive, you'll need to leave it in the car park outside town.