The north-northeast coast of Brazil offers magnificent dunescapes, glorious deserted beaches mangrove forests and islands. Cutters from Maranhão cutters and jangadas from Ceará sail the winds off the coast. The arid interior is always close by and so is a prehistoric heritage and mountain ranges which offer cool forests and caves.

Trade winds intensify the formation of dunes, which reach their apex in the immense “desert” of Lençois Maranhenses, where sheets of 40 meter high dunes interspersed with small freshwater lakes are found. Jericoacoara, one of Brazil’s dazzling beaches is part of a coastal ecosystem with moving dunes, sandstone formations, mangroves and lagoons.

Between lies the spectacular Delta de Parnaiba, with its labyrinth islands, mangroves and beaches. A refuge for rare species and home to many fish and crustaceans.

At Sete Cidades, water erosion has made huge rocks look like most curious manmade structures and rock paintings reveal pre-historic occupation. Further on is a huge cave at Ubajara, in the forested Serra de Ibiapaba, with spectacular views over the endless sertão. São Luis is a World Heritage Site and known for its rich folklore and good reggae.

Around Fortaleza, the coast is developed with several big resorts, but you can still find authentic places like Prainha de Canto Verde. Further down are the salt pans around Mossoró and the reef pools of Maracajaú.