Things To Do
in Januário Cicco

Januário Cicco is a small coastal locality in northeastern Brazil, near Natal, known for its warm hospitality and tropical scenery. The area blends quiet streets with lively markets where locals share stories and flavors. Visitors can expect a warm climate, friendly crowds, and easy access to beaches and coastal trails.

At night, the coastline comes alive with music, markets, and moonlit strolls along the sand.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Januário Cicco
morning
:

Arrive at the small yet vibrant town of Januário Cicco and settle into your chosen accommodation. After unpacking, take a peaceful stroll around the quaint streets to familiarize yourself with the local atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast in a charming café and taste the local coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the local cultural sites, such as the town's primary square and historical buildings that showcase its colonial architecture. Visit local artisan shops to savor hand-crafted goods and discover unique souvenirs. Take a break at a nearby park, relaxing under the shade of the tropical trees.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties, from fresh fish to hearty stews. Engage in conversation with the friendly locals and learn about their customs and traditions. After dinner, walk through the lively streets, taking in the sounds and sights of the Brazilian nightlife.

day 2
Exploring Nature Reserves
morning
:

Begin the day early with a guided tour of the nearby nature reserves, known for their diverse flora and fauna. While hiking, keep an eye out for the unique bird species that inhabit the area and breathe in the fresh air filled with the scent of the rainforest. Capture stunning photographs of the scenic landscapes that surround you.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, immersed in the tranquil sounds of birds and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon kayaking on a nearby river, navigating through the calm waters while spotting local wildlife. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

evening
:

Return to town just before dusk for a refreshing drink at a local bar, where you can unwind and share stories with fellow travelers. As night falls, attend a cultural event that showcases the traditional music and dance of Brazil. The rhythmic sounds resonate through the air, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
Coffee or snack$1-3
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-90
🚖Taxi within city$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and a welcoming vibe
  • Excellent seafood and regional dishes
  • Heat and humidity can be intense
  • Some areas can be crowded and noisy at night
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
  • "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Januário Cicco

Visit one of these nice places.

Genipabu Dunes

Iconic rolling dunes with views over lagoons; great for wide-angle photography and sunset shots.

Forte dos Reis Magos (Fort of the three Kings)

Historic fortress with coastal views and architecture perfect for panoramas at sunrise.

Ponta Negra Beach and Morro do Careca

Vibrant beach scene with lifeguard towers, sea, and cliff silhouettes—great at golden hour.

Cidade Alta Historic Center

Colonial-inspired streets, colorful façades, and markets for street photography and candid portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Januário Cicco

Northeastern Brazilian cuisine is flavorful and seafood-rich, with cassava, dendê oil, and fava beans featuring prominently in many dishes.

Januário Cicco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Baião de Dois

A hearty combination of rice, beans, queijo coalho, and dried beef or pork, often served with queijo coalho and peppers.

Must-Try!

Moqueca Potiguar

A coastal fish stew from Rio Grande do Norte, cooked with coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs.

Carne de Sol with Purê de Mandioca

Sun-dried beef served with mashed cassava or yuca and a side of greens and peppers.

Pão de Queijo with Tapioca

Cheese bread and tapioca pancakes—popular breakfast and street snacks across the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cidade Alta Market (Mercado da Cidade Alta)

A bustling market area where you can sample fresh seafood, regional fruits, and street snacks.

Coastal beach shacks

Casual stalls along the shoreline offering fried fish, moquecas, and refreshing coconut water.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is tropical, hot and humid for most of the year with a distinct rainy season. Expect heavier rain from March to July and dry spells in other months; temperatures typically range from mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (24-34°C).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or kiss on the cheek in casual settings; greet with a polite 'bom dia/tarde/noite'.

Dress Code

Casual but modest in religious sites; beachwear is fine on beaches but not in markets or town centers.

Punctuality

Timeliness is flexible in social settings, but plan appointments on time for business interactions.

Respect for Local Culture

Ask before taking photos of people; show interest in regional music and crafts; use Portuguese basics.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and beaches; keep valuables secure, use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps, and avoid isolated areas at night. Stay up-to-date with local advisories and have travel insurance.

Tipping in Januário Cicco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

10% service charge is common if not included; otherwise round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is useful in markets; mobile payments (Pix) are popular for transfers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan mid-day rests.

Autumn (Mar-May)

Warm temperatures with occasional rain; shoulder season with fewer crowds and lush vegetation.

Winter (Jun-Aug)

Milder highs and cooler evenings; rare heavy rain; good time for outdoor activities with fewer crowds.

Spring (Sep-Nov)

Warm and dry-to-mild weather; ideal for outdoor exploration and beach days.

Nightlife Guide

Januário Cicco at Night

Nightlife centers around beachside bars, casual clubs, and live regional music along the coast; expect a relaxed vibe with a mix of tourists and locals, especially in Ponta Negra and nearby praias. Enjoy fresh seafood and caipirinhas, but be mindful of late-night transport options.

Hiking in Januário Cicco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Genipabu Dune Trails

Coastal dune trails offering panoramic views of lagoons and the Atlantic; suitable for day hikes.

Coastal Lookout Trails near Ponta Negra

Short hikes along clifftop paths with ocean views and sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Januário Cicco by plane.

Aeroporto Internacional de Natal – Governador Aluízio Alves (NAT)

Major international and domestic airport serving the Natal region; easy access by taxi or car to Januário Cicco and coastal towns.

Aeroporto de João Pessoa (JPA)

Nearby international airport (state of Paraíba); transfers by road to Natal region typically take a few hours by car.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is walkable in many parts, with compact historic streets, markets, and waterfront paths. Heavy foot traffic is common near beaches and markets; some hills can require stairs or gentle climbs. Use taxis or ride-sharing for longer distances or during peak heat.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Regional residents

Mostly people from the Northeast, with strong Afro-Brazilian influences in music and cuisine.

Tourists

A diverse mix from Brazil and abroad, drawn to coastlines and cultural markets.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport, with local games and impromptu street matches during festivals.

Beach Volleyball

A staple on the beaches with many nets set up along the shore.

Capoeira

Traditional Brazilian martial art and dance often performed in public spaces and markets.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours; streets around beaches and city centers can be congested. Public transit exists but is limited; ride-sharing and taxis are common options for tourists. Plan extra time when visiting popular beaches like Ponta Negra.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Januário Cicco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most seafood-focused Northeast menus offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable stews, cassava dishes, and cheese-based plates. Ask for 'sem carne' or 'sem proteína' and request plant-based oils instead of dendê if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region includes public SUS facilities and private clinics in Natal; for travellers, private clinics and hospitals with English-speaking staff are available in Natal. Carry international health insurance and know where the nearest facility is when staying near the coast.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide