Fortaleza : Comprehensive Travel Guide

Why Fortaleza? The Sun-Kissed Capital of Ceará

The Land of Light (Terra da Luz)

Fortaleza’s evocative nickname, Terra da Luz or “Land of Light,” carries a profound dual meaning. Historically, it honors the state of Ceará for being the first in Brazil to abolish slavery in 1884, a beacon of progress and liberation that shone four years before the rest of the nation followed suit. This “light” of freedom is a source of immense local pride.

Today, the name has adopted a more literal significance. Bathed in equatorial sunshine almost year-round, Fortaleza lives up to its title with brilliant blue skies and a warm, luminous glow. It’s a city where the sun is not just a feature of the weather but a central element of the lifestyle, promising warmth and brightness to all who visit.

A Hub for Beaches, Culture, and Nightlife

Fortaleza offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and urban energy. The city’s identity is built on three main pillars that cater to a wide array of travelers. Its coastline is defined by sprawling urban beaches, from the bustling boardwalk of Meireles to the vast, windswept sands of Praia do Futuro. Beyond the shore, you’ll discover a rich and unique Ceará culture, famous for its infectious forró music, a nationally renowned comedy scene, and a distinct regional cuisine. As dusk falls, the city reveals its famously lively character, with a nightlife scene that ranges from bohemian bars and cultural centers to sophisticated restaurants and vibrant dance halls.

Gateway to Brazil’s Northeastern Coast

While Fortaleza is a captivating destination in its own right, it also serves as the primary launchpad for exploring the legendary coastline of Northeastern Brazil. Its international airport and well-connected transport network make it the natural starting point for journeys to some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. From here, adventurers set off to discover the wind-swept dunes and turquoise lagoons of Jericoacoara, the dramatic red cliffs of Canoa Quebrada, or embark on the unforgettable multi-day journey along the Rota das Emoções (Route of Emotions), a stunning coastal route connecting three states.

Planning Your Trip: Getting There and Around

Fortaleza is a well-connected city, and reaching its sunny shores is a straightforward process. Once you’ve arrived, a few convenient options make exploring the city’s distinct neighborhoods and attractions a simple affair. Here’s a guide to your logistical options for getting to and moving around the Ceará capital.

Arriving by Air: Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport (FOR)

Most international and domestic visitors will arrive at Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport (FOR). The airport is serviced by major Brazilian airlines like LATAM, GOL, and Azul, connecting Fortaleza with all major cities in Brazil. It also receives direct international flights, notably from Europe via carriers like TAP Air Portugal, and from other hubs in the Americas.

Once you land, you have several reliable options for getting to your accommodation:

• Official Airport Taxis: Upon exiting the arrivals hall, you’ll find official taxi cooperatives. These offer fixed-rate journeys to the main hotel zones, providing a secure and hassle-free option, especially for first-time visitors.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Both Uber and the popular Brazilian equivalent, 99, operate legally from the airport. This is often the most cost-effective choice. Simply follow the in-app instructions to the designated pickup area.
• Pre-booked Private Transfers: For maximum convenience, especially if you are traveling with a family, have lots of luggage, or are arriving late at night, you can book a private transfer in advance through your hotel or a local tour operator.

Arrivée en bus

For those traveling overland within Brazil, Fortaleza is a major hub for long-distance bus travel. The city’s main terminal is the Terminal Rodoviário Engenheiro João Thomé. While located a bit outside the main tourist areas, it’s a vital connection point for travelers exploring the Northeast region, with comfortable and reliable services linking Fortaleza to cities like Recife, Salvador, and Natal.

Naviguer dans la ville

Fortaleza is a large, sprawling city, but getting between the key tourist neighborhoods is relatively easy.

• Ride-Sharing Apps: For most visitors, using Uber or 99 is the most common, convenient, and affordable way to get around. Service is widely available, and wait times are typically short in the main areas of Meireles, Praia de Iracema, and Aldeota.
• Taxis: Licensed taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands (pontos de táxi) near hotels and major sights. They are a reliable, albeit slightly more expensive, alternative to ride-sharing.
• Public Transportation (Ônibus): The city has an extensive public bus network (ônibus) that is very economical. However, for non-Portuguese speakers, navigating the routes and payment systems can be complex and time-consuming. It is best suited for the more adventurous and budget-conscious traveler with some familiarity with the language.
• Walking: A walk along the main seaside avenue, Av. Beira Mar, is a highlight of any trip to Fortaleza. The flat, wide promenade is perfect for strolling between the Meireles and Iracema districts, especially in the late afternoon. For longer distances, such as traveling to Praia do Futuro or inland to shopping centers, walking is not practical due to the distance and intense sun.

When to Visit: Weather and Festivals

Timing your trip to Fortaleza can significantly influence your experience. The city’s tropical climate offers year-round warmth, but it’s defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, each with its own appeal. Beyond the weather, the calendar is marked by major holidays and unique local traditions that can make your visit truly memorable.

Understanding the Climate: Wet vs. Dry Seasons

Fortaleza sits just south of the equator, resulting in a climate that doesn’t have a true winter or summer, but rather a season of rain and a season of sun. Temperatures remain consistently warm, typically hovering between 26°C and 31°C (79°F to 88°F) throughout the year.

Dry Season (July – December)

This is widely considered the best time to visit Fortaleza, especially for those seeking guaranteed sunshine. The skies are predominantly clear, rainfall is minimal, and the atmosphere is less humid. This period is also defined by the famous “ventos alísios” (trade winds), which blow consistently and strongly, creating world-class conditions for kitesurfers and windsurfers. If your ideal vacation involves cloudless days and perfect beach weather, this is your window.

• Weather: Consistently sunny with very little precipitation.
• Activities: The absolute peak season for kitesurfing and windsurfing, particularly from August to November.
• Atmosphere: Energetic and bustling, as this period aligns with peak tourist arrivals.

Wet Season (January – June)

Often called “winter” (inverno) by locals, this season is characterized by rain. However, this doesn’t mean constant downpours. More often, the rain comes in intense but short-lived tropical showers, usually in the afternoon, which are often followed by a return to sunshine. It remains very warm, and the landscape becomes greener and more lush. This season offers a different kind of charm, with fewer crowds and often more attractive pricing for flights and accommodation.

• Weather: A mix of sun and frequent, heavy showers.
• Crowds: Generally fewer tourists, with the exception of the Carnival period.
• Benefits: A good option for budget travelers and those who don’t mind a bit of rain in exchange for a quieter city.

Haute saison et basse saison

Fortaleza’s tourist seasons are dictated by both the weather and the Brazilian holiday calendar. Planning around them can have a major impact on your budget and the general vibe of the city.

• High Season: This includes the month of July (when Brazilian schools have their winter break), and the period from late December through February, which encompasses Christmas, New Year’s (Réveillon), and Carnival. During these times, the city is at its most vibrant and crowded. Expect prices for hotels and flights to be at their peak.
• Low Season: The shoulder months from March to June (the rainiest period) and August to November offer the best value. You’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere, fewer people on the beaches, and more competitive pricing, making this an ideal time for travelers on a budget or those seeking a more tranquil getaway.

Key Events and Festivals

Beyond the weather, certain cultural events define the rhythm of the city and are worth planning your trip around.

• Fortal: Held in late July, Fortal is one of Brazil’s largest and most famous micaretas, or off-season carnivals. It’s a massive, multi-day music festival where giant sound trucks, known as trios elétricos, parade through a dedicated event space, followed by thousands of revelers dancing to the sounds of Brazil’s biggest axé and sertanejo music stars.
• Réveillon (New Year’s Eve): Fortaleza hosts one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in Brazil. The main event is a massive, free concert held on the beach at Praia de Iracema, attracting hundreds of thousands of people. The celebration features famous national musicians and is capped off by a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean at midnight.
• Quinta do Caranguejo (Crab Thursday): More of a weekly culinary ritual than a festival, this is an unmissable cultural experience. Every Thursday night, the city’s beach shacks (especially at Praia do Futuro) and many neighborhood bars come alive for “Crab Thursday.” Locals and visitors gather to socialize while enjoying plates of fresh crabs cooked in a seasoned broth, hammered open at the table. It’s a delicious and lively tradition that perfectly captures the local spirit.

Where to Stay: A Guide to Fortaleza’s Best Neighborhoods

Choosing the right neighborhood is key to shaping your Fortaleza experience. Whether you’re seeking non-stop beach action, cultural immersion, or a tranquil seaside escape, the city offers distinct areas, each with its own character and advantages.

Meireles: For First-Time Visitors and Beach Lovers

Meireles is the vibrant, beating heart of tourist Fortaleza. Its defining feature is the bustling Avenida Beira Mar, a wide oceanfront promenade that is alive from dawn until late at night with joggers, skaters, and families out for a stroll. This neighborhood is the epitome of convenience, hosting the highest concentration of hotels, tour agencies, and restaurants, all within easy walking distance.

In the evening, the area comes alive with the Feirinha Beira Mar, a sprawling daily handicraft fair where you can find everything from handmade leather sandals to intricate lacework and local cashew nuts. If you’re visiting Fortaleza for the first time, or traveling with family, Meireles offers a safe, central, and action-packed base from which to explore.

Praia de Iracema: For Culture, Nightlife, and a Bohemian Vibe

With its beautifully preserved historic buildings and free-spirited atmosphere, Praia de Iracema offers a more bohemian and cultural experience. By day, it’s a place for quiet reflection, but as the sun begins to set, the neighborhood transforms. The iconic Ponte dos Ingleses (The Englishmen’s Bridge) juts out into the ocean, providing the city’s most celebrated viewpoint for watching the sunset, often accompanied by dolphins playing in the surf.

Praia de Iracema is also the epicenter of Fortaleza’s cultural and nightlife scenes. It’s home to the impressive Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture, a complex with museums, a cinema, and a planetarium. After dark, its streets fill with people heading to the numerous bars, live music venues, and clubs. This area is ideal for young travelers, couples, and anyone who wants to be immersed in the city’s artistic and social energy.

Praia do Futuro: For Beach Clubs and Kitesurfing

Praia do Futuro is less a neighborhood and more a dedicated beach destination. Stretching for several kilometers, this beach is famous for its powerful waves, cleaner water, and, most notably, its massive beach clubs known as barracas. These are not simple huts; they are sprawling, full-service complexes like Chico do Caranguejo or Crocobeach, offering restaurants, swimming pools, live music, playgrounds, and secure lockers.

The consistent, strong winds also make this a world-class spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It’s the perfect place for travelers who want to dedicate their days entirely to the beach experience. It is important to note, however, that Praia do Futuro is geographically isolated from Meireles and Praia de Iracema, requiring a 15-20 minute taxi or ride-share to reach the city’s other main attractions. It’s a fantastic choice for a day trip or for those who prioritize beach club comfort over central-city access.

Aldeota & Varjota: For Shopping and a Local Gastronomic Scene

For a taste of local life away from the main tourist strips, the adjacent upscale neighborhoods of Aldeota and Varjota are an excellent choice. Aldeota is the city’s primary commercial district, home to modern shopping malls like Shopping Iguatemi and RioMar, where you can find both Brazilian and international brands.

Just next door, Varjota has earned a reputation as Fortaleza’s premier gastronomic hub. Its leafy streets are lined with some of the city’s most innovative and high-quality restaurants, offering everything from traditional Ceará cuisine to contemporary international fare. Staying here is best for travelers who want a more residential feel, are focused on shopping and fine dining, or are looking for an experience that feels more local and less tourist-centric.

Top Things to Do and See in Fortaleza

Beyond its reputation as a beach destination, Fortaleza offers a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks, lively markets, and unique local experiences. The city’s energy is palpable, from its historic theaters to its vibrant nightlife, providing a diverse itinerary for any traveler.

Hit the Urban Beaches

Fortaleza’s coastline is woven into the fabric of daily life, with each of its main urban beaches offering a distinct personality and set of activities.

Praia de Meireles

This is the city’s central social artery. The main attraction here is the wide, bustling boardwalk, the Calçadão da Av. Beira Mar, perfect for a morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or people-watching from a coconut water stand. As dusk settles, the area comes alive with the Feirinha Beira Mar, a sprawling nightly handicraft fair where you can find everything from leather goods and clothing to local art and souvenirs.

Praia de Iracema

Famous for its bohemian spirit, Praia de Iracema is where the city’s history meets the sea. Its most iconic landmark is the Ponte dos Ingleses (The Englishmen’s Bridge), a historic pier that is unequivocally the best spot in the city to watch the sunset. Locals and tourists gather here each evening to see the sun dip below the horizon, often accompanied by dolphins frolicking in the distance.

Praia do Futuro

A short drive from the main tourist strip, Praia do Futuro is a world unto itself. This beach is defined by its massive, full-service beach clubs known as barracas. These are not simple beach shacks; a barraca like Chico do Caranguejo or Crocobeach is a sprawling complex featuring restaurants, multiple bars, swimming pools, playgrounds, showers, and sometimes even live music stages. They offer a comfortable and convenient way to spend an entire day by the sea, with cleaner waters for swimming and the consistent winds that make it a kitesurfing hub.

Immerse Yourself in Culture and History

Step away from the sand to discover the artistic and historical soul of Ceará, beautifully preserved in the city’s architecture and cultural centers.

Theatro José de Alencar

An architectural masterpiece, the Theatro José de Alencar is a breathtaking landmark. Opened in 1910, its structure is a stunning combination of Art Nouveau stained glass, Scottish ironwork, and intricate wood detailing. Taking a guided tour is highly recommended to appreciate the theater’s rich history, opulent interior, and unique garden designed by landscape artist Burle Marx.

Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture

A vibrant cultural complex, the Dragão do Mar is a modern architectural icon connecting the historic Praia de Iracema with the city center. This hub is home to the Ceará Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Ceará Culture, a cinema, a planetarium, and performance spaces. It’s a focal point for art exhibitions, film screenings, and theatrical performances, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s creative pulse.

Mercado Central & Mercado dos Peixes

Fortaleza’s markets offer a sensory dive into local commerce and cuisine. The Mercado Central is a multi-story labyrinth packed with vendors selling regional specialties. It’s the ideal place to shop for high-quality hammocks, intricate lacework, leather sandals, cashew nuts, and cachaça. A few kilometers away, the Mercado dos Peixes in Meireles offers a more rustic experience. Here, you can buy incredibly fresh fish and shrimp directly from the fishermen’s stalls and take it to one of the adjacent simple kitchens, where they will grill or fry it for you on the spot. It’s a simple, delicious, and authentically local meal.

Experience the Lively Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Fortaleza reveals another side of its personality, with entertainment options ranging from traditional dance to modern comedy and sophisticated bars.

Forró Music

You cannot visit Ceará without experiencing forró, the region’s most beloved music and dance style. Characterized by the accordion, zabumba drum, and triangle, this lively partner dance is a cornerstone of local culture. Seek out a traditional dance hall, or casa de forró, to watch locals dance with infectious joy or even take a few steps yourself.

Stand-up Comedy

Fortaleza is a national powerhouse for stand-up comedy, having produced some of Brazil’s most famous comedians. The local humor is sharp, witty, and deeply rooted in the Ceará identity. Catching a show is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture, though a good grasp of Portuguese is necessary to appreciate the punchlines.

Bars et clubs

The city’s nightlife is concentrated in a few key areas. Praia de Iracema is the traditional heart of the party scene, with a cluster of bustling bars and live music venues around the Dragão do Mar. For a more upscale evening, head to the Varjota neighborhood, known for its sophisticated gastropubs and cocktail bars that attract a well-dressed local crowd.

A Taste of Ceará: What to Eat and Drink

The cuisine of Ceará is a direct reflection of its landscape: a blend of hearty inland ranching traditions and the bountiful offerings of its Atlantic coast. The food is flavorful, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying, relying on fresh, local ingredients. Exploring Fortaleza’s culinary scene is as essential as visiting its beaches, offering a genuine taste of Northeastern Brazil.

Must-Try Savory Dishes

The foundations of Ceará’s gastronomy are built on a few iconic dishes that you will find in restaurants ranging from simple beachfront stalls to sophisticated dining rooms.

• Carne de Sol com Macaxeira: This is arguably the most quintessential dish of the entire region. Carne de sol is beef that has been lightly salted and left to cure in the sun and wind for a day or two. This process tenderizes the meat and imparts a unique, savory flavor. It’s typically grilled or pan-fried and served with macaxeira (cassava or yuca), which can be boiled, fried into crispy sticks, or mashed into a creamy purée.
• Baião de Dois: A hearty and comforting one-pot meal, Baião de Dois is a flavorful medley of rice and beans cooked together with chunks of dried meat (carne seca), bacon, and cubes of queijo coalho—a firm, mild, and salty cheese that softens but doesn’t fully melt when heated. It’s a staple of local home cooking and a delicious representation of the Sertão (inland) diet.
• Caranguejada: Participating in the caranguejada is a cultural experience. Every Thursday night, locals flock to beachside barracas and restaurants for a feast of crabs. The crabs are cooked in a rich, seasoned broth, often with coconut milk, and served whole. You’ll be given a small wooden board and mallet to crack open the shells—a messy but immensely rewarding culinary ritual.
• Moqueca: While the more famous version hails from Bahia, Ceará has its own distinct take on this beloved seafood stew. The moqueca cearense is typically lighter, often omitting the heavy palm oil (dendê) in favor of regular vegetable oils and using coconut milk, fresh tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro to create a fragrant broth for fresh fish or shrimp.

Seafood Sensations

With a long coastline, Fortaleza is a paradise for seafood lovers. The freshness and quality are exceptional, and you can enjoy it prepared in countless simple yet delicious ways.

• Fresh Fish (Peixe Fresco): The ultimate experience is at the Mercado dos Peixes on Meireles beach. Here, you can buy fish like snapper (pargo) or sea bass (robalo) directly from the fishermen who just brought in their catch. Adjacent stalls will then grill it for you on the spot for a small fee, serving it with simple sides.
• Shrimp (Camarão): Shrimp is ubiquitous and served in every imaginable form: deep-fried and crispy (camarão alho e óleo), cooked into stews, folded into pastries (pastéis), or served in creamy sauces.
• Lobster (Lagosta): Ceará is a major exporter of spiny lobster, meaning it’s often available at prices more accessible than in other parts of the world. Look for simply grilled lobster, served with melted butter, to truly appreciate its sweet, delicate flavor.

Drinks and Sweets

Quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth with a range of beverages and treats that make use of Brazil’s incredible natural bounty.

• Cachaça: Brazil’s national spirit, distilled from fermented sugarcane juice. You can find artisanal cachaças from Ceará and across Brazil, which vary in flavor from grassy and sharp (unaged) to smooth and complex (aged in wood barrels).
• Caipirinha: The quintessential Brazilian cocktail. In its classic form, it’s a simple, potent mix of cachaça, muddled fresh limes, and sugar, served over ice. Many bars also offer versions with other tropical fruits.
• Tropical Fruit Juices: The variety of fresh fruit juices (sucos) is astounding. Move beyond orange and pineapple and sample local flavors like cajá (a tart, fragrant yellow fruit), graviola (soursop), cupuaçu (a creamy, aromatic relative of cacao), and acerola (a cherry packed with vitamin C).
• Cajuína: A beloved regional specialty, Cajuína is a non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, amber-colored beverage made from clarified and sterilized cashew fruit juice. It’s sweet, refreshing, and a cultural symbol of the Northeast.

Beyond the City: Essential Day Trips

While Fortaleza offers plenty to do within its limits, its true allure is magnified by the spectacular coastline that surrounds it. The city serves as a perfect base for exploring some of Brazil’s most iconic beaches. These excursions are easily arranged; you’ll find numerous agencies along the Avenida Beira Mar selling convenient and affordable package tours. For those seeking more flexibility, hiring a private driver for the day or renting a car are also excellent options.

Cumbuco: Dunes, Buggies, and Lagoons

Just a short drive from Fortaleza, Cumbuco is a dynamic playground where towering white sand dunes meet the turquoise ocean. It’s the epicenter of adventure in the region. The quintessential experience is a dune buggy ride, where your driver will invariably ask the thrilling question: “Com emoção ou sem emoção?” (“With or without emotion?”). Choosing “with emotion” results in a rollercoaster-like dash across the steep dunes. These tours often include a stop for esquibunda, a unique local activity where you sit on a wooden board and slide down a sand dune directly into a cool freshwater lagoon. Cumbuco is also a world-renowned destination for kitesurfing, thanks to its reliable and powerful winds.

Morro Branco & Praia das Fontes: The Labyrinth of Cliffs

This popular dual-destination tour showcases the stunning natural artistry of Ceará’s coast. The main event at Morro Branco is a walk through the Labirinto de Falésias (Labyrinth of Cliffs), a natural maze formed by wind and rain erosion. As you wander through the canyons, you’ll be surrounded by cliffs streaked with a dozen shades of naturally colored sand, which local artisans collect to create intricate patterns inside glass bottles. A short distance away, Praia das Fontes (Beach of the Springs) lives up to its name with several freshwater springs, or bicas, that flow directly out of the base of the cliffs onto the beach, creating small waterfalls and natural showers.

Lagoinha: The Postcard-Perfect Beach

Often described as the classic postcard image of a northeastern Brazilian beach, Lagoinha is defined by its breathtaking beauty. The view from the clifftop upon arrival is unforgettable: a sweeping, palm-fringed, half-moon bay with calm, clear waters and traditional fishing boats dotting the shore. While relaxing on the beach is a worthy activity in itself, most visitors opt for the popular local tour. This multi-part excursion typically begins with a ride in a pau de arara (a rustic, open-air truck), followed by a catamaran trip across a lagoon, and culminates in a thrilling buggy ride over the dunes to the tranquil and beautiful Lagoa das Almécegas for a refreshing swim.

Practical Information: Safety and Travel Tips

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Fortaleza is a welcoming city, but like any large urban center, it requires a degree of common sense and awareness. Here are some essential tips for navigating the city safely and managing your health and budget.

Staying Safe

While the main tourist areas are generally well-policed, it’s wise to practice standard travel precautions to avoid petty crime.

• General Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, particularly in crowded places like markets, bus terminals, and along the bustling Av. Beira Mar. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention by displaying expensive cameras, smartphones, or jewelry.
• Night Safety: After dark, stick to well-lit and populated areas. The boardwalks of Meireles and Praia de Iracema are usually busy in the early evening, but it is advisable to use a taxi or a ride-sharing app for longer distances or when returning to your accommodation late at night.
• Beach Safety: Never leave your valuables unattended on the sand when you go for a swim. The large barracas at Praia do Futuro offer lockers for a small fee, which provide excellent peace of mind for a day of relaxation.

Argent et Coûts

Fortaleza offers good value compared to southern Brazilian cities like Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo, making it an accessible destination for various budgets.

• Currency: The official currency is the Brazilian Real (R$). Its symbol is R$.
• Payments: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, established restaurants, and shopping malls. However, you will need cash (Reais) for smaller purchases at beach stalls, handicraft fairs, local markets, and for some taxis. It’s a good practice to carry a mix of both.
• Budgeting: Your daily costs can vary significantly based on your travel style.
  • Budget Traveler: Expect to spend around R$150–R$250 per day. This would cover a dorm bed, meals from more modest restaurants or markets, and using public transport.
  • Mid-Range Traveler: A budget of R$300–R$500 per day will afford you a comfortable hotel room, meals at a variety of restaurants, and frequent use of ride-sharing apps.
  • Luxury Traveler: For R$700 and up per day, you can enjoy upscale hotels, fine dining experiences, private tours, and other premium services.

Health and Well-being

The tropical climate requires a few simple health precautions to keep you comfortable and well throughout your stay.

• Sun Protection: Located near the equator, Fortaleza’s sun is incredibly intense year-round. High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) is not optional, it’s essential. A wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses are also highly recommended, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Hydration: The heat and humidity can lead to dehydration quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It is best to stick to bottled water, which is readily available everywhere. Don’t forget to enjoy the hydrating properties of fresh coconut water (água de coco).
• Mosquitoes: While not a major issue in the breezy hotel zones, mosquitoes can be present, particularly in the evenings or on day trips to areas with lagoons and dense vegetation. Using an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin is a sensible precaution.