In this tour we will highlight the best beaches of the Brazilian state of Ceará: Morro Branco and Canoa Quebrada. Just a short drive from Fortaleza, these two marvelous getaways will inspire memories that you'll treasure for years to come. You will be sure to lose yourself in the scenery: towering sand dunes, cliffs, deep-hued sands and alluring waters of the Ceará coast.

Day 1 - Fortaleza - After our flight arrives in the early morning, we will be met at the airport and be transferred to our beachfront hotel, after which we will check in and have time to rest. Enjoy a free day in Fortaleza. The city of Fortaleza is an active center of commerce and fishing in Brazil's northeastern state of Ceará. Although it was not colonized until the early 1600s, Portuguese explorers landed here in 1500. The Dutch established a stronghold with the construction of Schoonenborch fortress, but control of the settlement at Fortaleza teetered between the Portuguese, Indians and Dutch several t imes in the 1600s. The town later became a trading post for cattle farms that were established in Ceará's interior. Nowadays, Fortaleza is used as a jumping-off point for many serene palm-lined beaches that the northeast is known for. The lively Praia da Iracema and Praia do Meireles are excellent choices for going out; the beaches in Fortaleza are known more for their nightlife than for soaking up sun and surf. Overnight at Othon Imperial.

Day 2 - Morro Branco - We will make the short trip to one of Brazil's nicest beaches. The unique and picturesque coastline of Morro Branco lie roughly 80 km (50 miles) from Fortaleza on the spectacular Ceará coast. Morro Branco is known for its colorful sand cliffs, which range from white to pink and reddish to beige. Pass over the dunes and explore a natural labyrinth with fresh water springs at Praia das Fontes ("Beach of the Springs") or take a jangada (a small wooden sailboat) ride to some nearby caves. Here, handicrafts made of sand are plentiful, as they are a local specialty. In Iguape, you can find good buys from the skilled lacemakers who peddle their intricate embroideries. Overnight in Hotel das Falesias or similar.

Day 3 - Morro Branco - Your day will be at leisure to enjoy paradise. We'll have the chance to take an optional dune buggy ride between the high walls of "the Labyrinth," a rocky area created by years of erosion. Overnight in Hotel das Falesias or similar.

Day 4 - Canoa Quebrada - We'll drive further southeast along the coast. The immense pink dunes of Canoa Quebrada overlook broad beaches not far from Aracati on Ceará's shimmering Atlantic coast. Although small, the village has plenty of lively restaurants, bars as well as nightclubs where patrons dance to the rhythm of the forró. In the 1970s, Canoa Quebrada was discovered by Brazilian and international nomads looking for a more laid-back lifestyle. The town has developed somewhat since then, but it's still a magical event to watch the sun set over the dunes, which resemble a lunar landscape. Hint: the place is so nice, that it gets crowded on weekends. We recommend a visit during the week. Overnight at Best Western Resort or similar.

Day 5 - Canoa Quebrada - Time at leisure to relax on the beach or go on an optional tour. Take a peaceful jangada ride out into the calm sea, or have fun going for a spin in a beach buggy. Overnight at Best Western Resort or similar.

Day 6 - Canoa Quebrada - Time at leisure in Canoa Quebrada. Overnight at Best Western Resort or similar.

Day 7 - Fortaleza - Today we will transfer back from Canoa Quebrada to Fortaleza. Overnight at Othon Imperial.

Day 8 - Departure - Transfer to the airport for your return flight, or proceed on the Amazon tour option.

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