How to get to Crateús

If you have decided to travel to Crateús, located in the picturesque state of Ceará in the north-east of Brazil, you can look forward to immersing yourself in the region's authentic atmosphere and discovering the unique nature of the Caatinga. When considering how to get to Crateús, travellers usually choose between convenient domestic flights and ground transport—scheduled buses or a rented car, allowing the journey to become an adventure in itself.

Travelling by plane is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach your destination. The city is served by Crateús Airport (JCS), which handles regional flights. Having its own air hub saves tourists from the need to make long overland journeys from distant settlements.

Fortaleza usually acts as the main transit hub for flights to this part of the country. It is from the capital of Ceará state that light aircraft flights connecting major centres with the hinterland are most often operated. When planning a route through Brazil, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance, as flights to small airports may depend on seasonality and weather conditions.

When planning your route, it is important to note that getting to Crateús by train is not possible. Currently, there is no regular passenger railway service to the city, as the railway network in this region is used primarily for freight transport.

Due to the lack of operating stations for tourists, travellers should not consider this mode of transport. Buses and cars remain the main alternatives. Even if your path lies through neighbouring cities such as Tauá, São Benedito, or Quixadá, you should rely exclusively on the road network.

Bus services remain the most popular and affordable way to travel around the state of Ceará, connecting Crateús with neighbouring regions via a reliable network of routes. One of the most convenient options is a trip from Tauá: the distance between the cities is about 100 kilometres, and the travel time usually does not exceed two hours. This is a great opportunity to see the changing landscapes of the Caatinga without tiring yourself with too long a journey.

For travellers departing from Quixadá, the road will take approximately 3–4 hours, during which the bus will cover about 200 kilometres along colourful Brazilian highways. There is also a regular service with the city of São Benedito, from where the journey of about 160 kilometres will take about three and a half hours. Most intercity buses in Brazil are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, making the trip pleasant even in hot weather.

Travelling by car to Crateús opens up the opportunity to explore the colourful roads of the Brazilian sertão, where cacti and rocky hills flash past the window. The fastest and least tiring route runs from the city of Tauá: the distance of 100 kilometres along a paved highway can be comfortably covered in just one and a half to two hours.

A longer but no less picturesque trip awaits those heading from São Benedito: you will have to drive about 170 kilometres, spending approximately three hours on the road. The journey from Quixadá will take a little longer—about three and a half hours for a distance of 200 kilometres; intercity taxi services for such distances can be significant for the budget, so renting a car often becomes the optimal choice.

Preparing for your trip to Crateús will help make your holiday in the interior of Brazil as comfortable and safe as possible. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you that will come in handy during your trip through this colourful region of Ceará state.

1. Clothing and Sun Protection: The climate in Crateús is hot and semi-arid. Prefer light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen) in light colours. Be sure to wear a head covering and use sunscreen with a high SPF factor, as the sun here is very active throughout the year.
2. Getting Around the City: Motorcycle taxis are very popular in small cities in the country—this is a fast and budget-friendly way to get to your destination. For independent trips to the surrounding areas, it is better to rent a car, as public transport may run with long intervals.
3. Financial Matters: The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Cards are accepted in supermarkets and hotels, but markets and small shops often require cash. It is recommended to carry small notes for paying for fares and souvenirs, as change from large banknotes may not be available.
4. Health and Hygiene: Drink only bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. Also, do not forget to bring insect repellents: in the tropical climate, mosquitoes can carry infections, so protection against bites is extremely important, especially in the evening.
5. Language Barrier: The main language of communication is Portuguese. Few people in Crateús speak English, so download an offline translator in advance or learn a few basic phrases of courtesy. Locals will appreciate your attempts to speak their native language.
6. Local Hospitality: Brazilians are very open and expressive. When meeting, it is customary to shake hands, and the "thumbs up" gesture is a universal sign of approval and gratitude. Do not be surprised if strangers greet you or try to help.
7. Safety Precautions: As everywhere, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. You should not walk alone on unlit streets late at night or openly display expensive smartphones or jewellery, so as not to attract unnecessary attention.
8. Daily Schedule: Take the climate into account when planning your day. In the midday hours (from 12:00 to 15:00), the heat reaches its peak, and many establishments may close for a break. The best time for walking and sightseeing is early morning or the time after sunset.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on exploring the culture and nature of the region. May your trip to Crateús leave only pleasant memories and vivid impressions.