How to get to Quixada

Nestled amongst the unique rock monoliths of the state of Ceará, the city of Quixada attracts travellers with its "Martian" landscapes and opportunities for active leisure in the northeast of Brazil. When planning your route, it is important to find out in advance how to get to Quixada to choose the most convenient and scenic travel option. You can reach this vibrant destination in various ways: by using domestic flights to the nearest major hubs, via the intercity bus network, or by renting a car for an independent journey.

Since Quixada does not receive direct commercial flights, the main aerial gateway for tourists is Fortaleza. The majestic international airport of the state capital, Ceará (FOR), is located 147 kilometres away and offers the widest range of flights, connecting the region with major cities across the country and the world.

For those planning a complex itinerary across the northeast of Brazil, there are alternative arrival options via neighbouring cities. You can utilise regional airports, for example, by flying into Iguatu (157 km) or Taua (182 km), from where convenient transport connections to your final destination are organised.

There is no direct rail service to the city of Quixada, as there is no passenger station within the settlement itself. This mode of transport is generally not very common for intercity travel in the northeast of Brazil, so tourists should plan alternative routes using roads in advance.

The nearest rail transport system, which includes a metro and tourist light rail lines, operates in the city of Fortaleza, located on the coast. Other major settlements in the region, such as Iguatu and Taua, also lack a direct rail connection to the destination, so travellers will need to use a bus or a rental car for the final leg of the journey.

Bus services in the state of Ceará are excellently developed, and the majority of travellers arrive here from the regional capital. The route from the city of Fortaleza is considered the most popular: a comfortable bus covers the 168 kilometres in approximately three hours, offering passengers views of changing landscapes from the coast to the rocky plains. This is the fastest and most direct way to find yourself at the foot of the famous monoliths.

For those exploring the country's interior regions, routes from the southern and western directions are suitable. The journey from the city of Iguatu will take about four hours to cover 215 kilometres, while the trip from the municipality of Taua (180 kilometres) will last around three and a half hours. It is advisable to purchase tickets for these routes in advance, especially during the season of festivals and holidays.

Travelling by car to Quixada allows you to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Brazilian sertão (hinterland) and the famous monoliths at your own pace. The most popular route runs from Fortaleza: a drive along the scenic highway, spanning about 170 kilometres, will take between two and a half to three hours. Renting a car or booking a taxi in the state capital is an excellent choice for those wishing to make stops to photograph the unique landscapes along the way.

If you are driving from the interior of the state, the road from the city of Iguatu will require about four hours to cover a distance of 215 kilometres. An alternative route from the municipality of Taua, spanning around 180 kilometres, will take approximately three and a half hours. The quality of the road surface on main highways is generally good, but drivers should remain vigilant, especially during the evening hours.

Preparing for a trip to Quixada requires attention to the climatic features and the local way of life in this region. To ensure your journey through the "land of monoliths" in the interior of Brazil is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled several useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and dry, so opt for light clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics in light colours. Be sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. For exploring the rock formations, you will need sturdy and comfortable closed-toe shoes that secure the foot well.
2. Transport. It is quite comfortable to move around the city centre on foot, but the attractions are scattered across the surrounding areas. To visit the monoliths, it is most convenient to rent a car or use the services of a motorcycle taxi (mototaxi)—this is the most common, fast, and affordable mode of transport among locals.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Supermarkets, hotels, and major restaurants accept bank cards without issues. However, for payments in small shops, buying water on the street, or paying for mototaxi rides, you must always carry cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered quite peaceful, but basic precautions should be observed: do not display expensive gadgets in sparsely populated areas. The main health risk is the intense sun and heat, so drink only bottled water and use insect repellent in the evenings.
5. Communication. The primary language is Portuguese. A very small percentage of the population speaks English, mostly staff at large hotels. It is strongly recommended to download an offline translator on your smartphone and learn a few basic phrases for greetings and gratitude.
6. Local Etiquette. The residents of Ceará are very open and expressive. It is customary to greet even strangers in an elevator or a small shop. The universal "thumbs up" gesture means "all good," "thank you," or "hello"—use it freely, as it will help establish a rapport with the person you are speaking to.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to climb the rocks during the midday hours (from 11:00 to 15:00) when the air temperature reaches its peak—this carries a risk of heatstroke. Also, avoid consuming tap water and beverages with ice at street kiosks if you are unsure of their quality.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to visit the historic Açude do Cedro dam at sunset. It is at this time that the famous "Brooding Hen" rock (Pedra da Galinha Choca) is painted in incredible colours, creating ideal conditions for photography.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the unique "Martian" landscapes and the atmosphere of this colourful Brazilian city.