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Serra de Ibiapaba: A natural paradise for adventure and ecotourism

in Interior of Ceará

Serra de Ibiapaba: Nature and extreme sports destination

The Serra de Ibiapaba, located on the border between Ceará and Piauí, is a destination that combines Nature, Flavours and Extreme Sports.

The Ubajara National Park, located in the Serra de Ibiapaba, with its Trails, Caves and famous Cable Car, is one of the region’s main attractions.

The average altitude of the Serra de Ibiapaba is around 1,000 metres above sea level, which contributes to its mild climate and lush natural landscapes.

Parque Nacional de Ubajara na Serra de Ibiapaba
Ubajara National Park in the Ibiapaba Mountains

Towns in the Serra de Ibiapaba

The region is home to nine towns, including

  • Ipu: Known as the land of the Indian Iracema, from the novel by José de Alencar.
  • Viçosa: The first municipality of the Serra, founded in 1882 and one of the oldest in Ceará.
  • Tianguá and Ubajara: Both full of natural and cultural attractions.

Each offers a rich history and natural beauty, such as Caves, Waterfalls and a pleasant climate.

Viçosa na Serra de Ibiapaba
Viçosa in the Ibiapaba Mountains

Videos of the Serra de Ibiapaba in Ceará

Viçosa no Ceará
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Tourist Attractions

1. Ubajara National Park

The Ubajara National Park, just 212 kilometres from Fortaleza, is a must for lovers of ecotourism. The park covers 563 hectares:

  • Ubajara Cave: The only one open to the public, with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
  • Trails: A variety of routes, including a 7km hike to the cave, ideal for the more adventurous.
  • Waterfalls: The Cafundó Waterfall, with waterfalls over 70 metres high, offers a relaxing swim.

The park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm, with the cable car starting at 9am.

Parque Nacional de Ubajara na Serra de Ibiapaba
Ubajara National Park in the Ibiapaba Mountains

2. Viçosa do Ceará

Viçosa do Ceará is an excellent starting point for exploring the Serra. The main attractions are

  • Nossa Senhora da Assunção Church: Ceará’s first church, founded in 1700 and protected by Iphan.
  • Historic Centre: With houses that reflect colonial architecture and local history, such as Sobrado da Marcela and Casarão dos Pinhos.
  • Culture and Handicrafts: Contact with the local community provides an opportunity to learn about regional handicrafts and typical cuisine.
Igreja Nossa Senhora da Assunção em Viçosa do Ceará
Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Viçosa do Ceará

3. Ipu

Located 294 kilometres from Fortaleza, Ipu is famous for its natural beauty. Visitors can explore:

  • Bica do Ipu: Also known as the Véu de Noiva Waterfall, 130 metres high, ideal for abseiling.
  • Historical Attractions: The Frei Aquino Museum and the Nossa Senhora do Desterro Church, known as the Igrejinha do Quadro.

4. Tianguá

Tianguá, with its mild climate and comfortable infrastructure, offers

  • Waterfalls and Trails: The Parque Ecológico da Floresta offers several options, such as the Bica do Pinga and the Sete Quedas Waterfall.
  • Adventure activities: Sítio do Bosco is a place for those who enjoy camping and extreme sports such as Zip-lining and Paragliding.

Culture and Gastronomy

The Ibiapaba Mountain Range is rich in culture and traditions. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as

  • rapadura and fruit shakes.
  • Lace and straw handicrafts are perfect souvenirs of the region.

Cultural events and local festivals also offer a deeper insight into life in the Serra.

Practical tips

  • How to get there: Easy access via the BR-222 and CE-075 motorways.
  • Safety: Always follow the instructions of the guides and respect the natural areas to preserve the environment.
  • Best time to visit: The climate is more pleasant in winter, when fog enriches the landscape.

Bottom line

The Serra de Ibiapaba is an enchanting destination that offers a unique combination of nature, culture and adventure. Whether exploring the trails of the Ubajara National Park or learning about local traditions, every visit promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Mapa das Serras do Ceará
Map of the mountains of Ceará
Mapa do Ceará com suas serras
Map of Ceará with its mountain ranges

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