Getting Around Brazil

Brazil is enormous — the fifth largest country in the world — so domestic flights are often essential. LATAM, Gol, and Azul compete on major routes, and booking a few weeks ahead can yield fares under BRL 300. For shorter distances, the bus network is excellent. Long-distance buses in Brazil are surprisingly comfortable, especially the “leito” (sleeper) class with fully reclining seats.

Urban Transit

Sao Paulo has Latin America’s largest metro system with six lines, plus a commuter rail network. Purchase a Bilhete Unico card for integrated metro and bus travel with free transfers within a time window. Rio’s metro is smaller but covers the main tourist areas from Ipanema to downtown. The VLT light rail in Rio’s port area connects to Santos Dumont airport and is modern and efficient.

Practical Tips

• The 99 app is often cheaper than Uber in Brazil and has better coverage in smaller cities
• Always carry your passport or a photocopy — police checks are common in tourist areas
• Tap water is not safe to drink in most areas; bottled water is cheap and available everywhere
• Avoid displaying expensive phones and cameras openly on the street, especially in Rio
• Learn basic Portuguese phrases; English is not widely spoken outside luxury hotels
• Street food like acai bowls, coxinhas, and pasteis are delicious and very affordable