Things To Do
in Crato
Crato, located in Ceará in northeastern Brazil, sits on the edge of the Araripe Plateau and serves as a gateway to the region's fossil sites and chapadas. The town blends a rich Nordeste culture with warm hospitality and a relaxed tempo, making it easy to explore on foot in its historic core. The climate is hot and semi-arid, with a marked rainy season that brings lush landscapes and dramatic skies.
Crato offers outdoor adventures, traditional cuisine, and a connection to the wider Cariri cultural belt.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Crato Cathedral, an impressive structure that showcases the rich architectural history of the region. After soaking in the views, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, where you can admire colonial-era buildings adorned with vibrant murals. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery for a freshly baked pão de queijo to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museu Histórico de Crato, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the area. Following your museum visit, explore the bustling Mercado Público, where you can find local handicrafts and fresh produce while interacting with friendly vendors. Take a moment to enjoy a refreshing coconut water as you sit in one of the nearby parks, soaking up the atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor traditional northeastern Brazilian cuisine, such as carne de sol with rice and beans. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the historic center, enjoying the ambiance created by the soft glow of street lamps. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to the Chapada do Araripe, where breathtaking landscapes await you. Upon arrival, embark on a guided hike through the lush trails, where you can spot unique flora and fauna native to the region. Take time to enjoy the panoramic views from the lookout points, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of the chapada. Continue your hike to discover hidden waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The tranquility of nature will rejuvenate your spirit as you bask in the sun and listen to the sounds of the forest.
Return to Crato in the evening and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from the region. After your meal, stroll along the local streets, perhaps catching an open-air cultural performance or dance event. Reflect on the day's adventures as you unwind under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or similar beverage | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1L) | $0.7-1.5 |
| 🛏️One night at a budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great value for an authentic Nordeste experience
- Proximity to Araripe plateau and fossil sites
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist infrastructure
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
- Rural roads can be rough in the rainy season
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Crato
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic central square with the cathedral, ideal for golden-hour portraits.
Elevated viewpoints offering panoramic vistas over the plateau and valleys.
Colonial-era church with distinctive architectural details.
Busy market scene with vibrant colors and early-morning activity perfect for candid photography.
Food in Crato
Crato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Nordeste dish of rice and beans with shredded dried beef; typically served with cheese and plantains.
Must-Try!
Sun-dried beef sautéed and served with creamy purée or toasted manioc flour sides.
A traditional fish stew featuring regional fish, tomatoes, peppers, and coconut milk.
Firm cheese skewered and grilled until golden and melty, popular as street snack.
Crispy fried cassava sticks or cubes, a common side or snack.
Non-alcoholic cashew fruit drink—sweet, refreshing, and often served cold.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, regional ingredients, and daily snacks.
Street stalls with tapioca, salgados, grilled cheese, and local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous greeting (Olá/Boa tarde) with a handshake; maintain polite conversation.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or intimate situations.
Dress modestly, remove hats, and speak softly when visiting churches or sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Crato
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping 5-10% in restaurants is common if service charge is not included; rounding up is fine.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards common; many places accept PIX for instant transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; carry water, sun protection; brief, intense showers possible.
Warm days with cooling evenings; comfortable for outdoor activities and photography.
Milder days, cooler nights; higher humidity in some areas; mountain views can be misty.
Pleasant temperatures and active markets; great for outdoor exploration.
Crato at Night
Hiking in Crato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail networks along the plateau with scenic viewpoints and fossil-rich sites.
Airports
How to reach Crato by plane.
Closest regional airport serving Crato; frequent domestic flights; about 60-90 minutes by road.
Major international gateway in Ceará; longer drive to Crato but option for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Brazil's northeast is ethnically diverse with a mix of White, Pardo, and Black communities; both urban and rural populations contribute to the fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common.
Common recreation in schools and clubs; beach and indoor venues.
Traditional Brazilian martial art practiced in communities and cultural centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Crato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find salads, vegetable stews, and legumes; ask for adaptions like bean-based dishes using rice, farofa, and dairy if needed.