Pre-Trip Checklist: Fortaleza

Essential Preparations

Start your planning early to cover all necessary arrangements.

Your Pre-Travel Timeline

Plan your preparations across a structured timeline to cover everything.

Three Months Out

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure).

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. Begin application.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights, especially for high season.

One Month Out

Accommodation & Tours

Book accommodations and major tours.

Itinerary Planning

Plan your itinerary in detail, outlining daily activities.

Basic Portuguese

Start learning basic Portuguese phrases.

One Week Out

Confirm Reservations

Confirm all reservations (flights, hotels, tours).

Packing Essentials

Pack, considering warm climate. Include DEET insect repellent and High SPF sunscreen.

Electronics & Adapters

Charge electronics and pack Universal travel adapter.

Advance Reservations

Bookings for smooth travel.

What to Book Ahead

International and domestic flights, especially for peak periods.
Accommodation: Secure your lodging early.
Popular day trips: Beach Park or specific dune buggy tours.
High-demand special events.

Home Readiness

Prepare your home for your absence.

Before You Leave Home

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Hold your mail or arrange trusted collection.
Secure your home by locking doors and windows, setting alarms.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary and emergency details.

Research Recommendations

Gain knowledge about Fortaleza.

Local Culture

Read up on local customs and etiquette.
Familiarize yourself with basic Portuguese phrases.
Discover regional traditions and social norms.
Understand the 'Jeitinho Brasileiro'.

Safety & Security

Research specific neighborhoods for safety.
Identify safe zones for evening activities.
Review travel advisories from your government.
Know local emergency procedures.

Culinary Exploration

Discover Ceará's unique regional flavors.
Identify local dishes to try (e.g., `moqueca`, `carne de sol`).
Find recommended `comida a quilo` spots.
Explore dining options from street food to fine dining.

Document Copies

Make copies (digital and physical) of all important documents. Store them separately from the originals.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you smoothly transition from arrival at the airport to settling into Fortaleza.

Initial Actions

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs at Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport (FOR).
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim carousel.
3
Local Currency
Locate an ATM or currency exchange for immediate local currency.

Settle In

Transfer & Connectivity
Head to your pre-booked transfer. Acquire a local SIM card for immediate connectivity.
Neighborhood Orientation
Familiarize yourself with the immediate neighborhood upon reaching your accommodation.
Water Purchase
Purchase Bottled water as tap water in Fortaleza is not safe to drink.

First Purchases

Hydration

Purchase bottled water as soon as possible.

Tap water in Fortaleza is generally not safe for consumption.

Connectivity

Consider a local SIM card upon arrival.

This provides immediate connectivity for navigation and communication.

Quick Bites

Grab some snacks for initial hunger.

Local stores or airport kiosks have options.

Stay Hydrated

Always choose bottled or filtered water for drinking throughout your trip. This helps avoid health issues related to local tap water.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to ensure a relaxed and timely journey back home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs from Mercado Central or Feirinha da Beira Mar. Remember to bargain politely.
Consider shipping larger items or excess luggage via Correios.
Use an Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale to check baggage weight.
Brazil does not operate a general Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.

Return Journey Logistics

Allow ample time to get to Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport (FOR).
Aim for 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic.
Factor in time for check-in, security screening, and passport control.
Confirm your flight details 24-48 hours before departure.

Departure Reminders

Important final checks before you leave.

Packing & Security

Pack strategicallyFragile souvenirs safe.
Liquids in carry-onComply with airline rules.
Charge electronicsFor travel and arrival home.
Home securityDouble-check locks and alarms.

Airport Transfers

Pre-book your airport transfer for a smooth journey.
Allow extra time, especially during peak traffic hours.
Know your route to the airport in advance.
Keep all travel documents readily accessible.

Airport Transfer Buffer

Leave yourself extra time for airport transfers, specifically during peak traffic hours.

Unexpected delays can happen, and having a buffer reduces stress.

Pre-Trip Checklist