Getting around Brazil
Given Brazil's vast size, air travel is often the quickest and most convenient way to move between major cities and regions. Frequent flights connect São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, Manaus, Porto Alegre and dozens of smaller destinations. For long distances, such as from the southeast to the Amazon or the northeast, flying can save many hours, if not days, of overland travel.
The main airlines operating domestic routes are LATAM, Gol and Azul, all of which offer extensive networks and regular departures. Fares can vary widely depending on demand, time of year and how early tickets are booked. In remote areas, especially within the Amazon basin, smaller regional carriers and charter flights provide access to towns that are otherwise difficult to reach by road or river.
Most domestic airports are modern and well organised, though passengers should allow ample time at busier hubs such as São Paulo–Congonhas and Brasília during peak travel periods. Baggage allowances can differ between fare types, so it is worth checking ticket conditions before flying.
Brazil's extensive road network links major cities, coastal regions and rural areas, making road travel a common way to explore the country. Highways connect most state capitals, and well-travelled routes such as those between São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte are generally in good condition. Scenic drives can be found along the coast in the northeast, through the mountains of Minas Gerais and across the southern states, where distances are manageable and services are relatively frequent.
Road conditions vary widely, however. While many major highways are paved and well maintained, secondary roads and rural routes can be rough, narrow or poorly lit, especially in remote areas of the Amazon, the Pantanal and the interior. Travellers should plan journeys with realistic travel times, particularly during the rainy season when roads may become muddy or impassable.
Road quality in Brazil varies considerably from region to region. Major highways, particularly those linking large cities in the south and southeast, are generally well maintained and in good condition, with some stretches operating as toll roads that offer smoother surfaces and reliable signage. In contrast, roads in rural areas, the Amazon basin and parts of the northeast can be uneven, potholed or unpaved, and may degrade further during the rainy season.
Lighting outside urban areas is often limited, and long-distance routes may have few service stations, so planning ahead is essential. Heavy lorry traffic on key corridors can also affect travel times and road conditions. While it is possible to drive long distances in Brazil, travellers should be prepared for variable road quality and adapt their plans accordingly.
Brazil's road network is divided into federal, state and municipal roads. Federal highways, marked with the prefix BR, form the backbone of long-distance travel and connect major cities, ports and border crossings. These routes vary widely in condition but are generally paved and carry significant traffic. Some of the busiest stretches, particularly in the south and southeast, operate as toll roads.
State highways link smaller cities and regional centres within each state. Their quality depends on local maintenance budgets and can range from well-maintained dual-carriageways to narrow single-lane roads. Municipal roads serve towns and rural areas and are the most variable, with some well surfaced and others unpaved, especially in remote regions and the Amazon.
Brazil uses a systematic numbering system for federal roads: odd-numbered routes typically run north–south, while even-numbered routes run east–west. This helps travellers navigate the country's vast distances, though local signage can be inconsistent in rural areas.
Car hire is widely available in Brazil, particularly in major cities, airports and popular tourist destinations. International companies such as Hertz, Avis and Localiza operate alongside local firms, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to larger SUVs. Hiring a car can be a convenient way to explore coastal regions, rural areas and smaller towns at your own pace.
Driving in Brazil, however, requires confidence. Urban traffic in cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro can be heavy and fast-paced, while rural routes may include unpaved sections, limited lighting and unpredictable road conditions. GPS coverage is generally good, but mobile reception can be patchy in remote areas.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a valid driving licence and a credit card. Foreign visitors may use their home-country licence for short stays, though some agencies prefer an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to the original licence. Insurance is strongly recommended and often included in rental packages.
Licensed taxis are typically metered, and fares are regulated in most major cities. They can be hailed on the street, found at designated taxi ranks, or booked by phone or app. In busy areas or late at night, it is advisable to use an official rank or a reputable booking service.
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, 99 and Cabify are extremely popular and often cheaper than traditional taxis. These services provide clear pricing, route tracking and cashless payment, making them a preferred choice for many visitors. In some smaller towns, availability may be limited, but conventional taxis are usually easy to find at transport hubs and main squares.
It is best to avoid unlicensed taxis, which may not use meters or could overcharge. When travelling from airports, official taxi counters and app-based pick-up points offer a secure and reliable option.
Cycling in Brazil can be rewarding in certain areas, but it is not widely used for long-distance travel due to the country's size, climate and varied road conditions. Major cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Brasília and Recife have invested in dedicated cycle lanes and shared bike schemes, making short urban rides increasingly accessible. Rio's coastal cycle paths, in particular, offer scenic routes suitable for leisurely exploration.
Outside city centres, however, cycling may be challenging. Highways often lack shoulders, traffic can be fast-moving and rural roads may be unpaved or poorly lit. In some regions, especially the Amazon, heat and humidity can be intense. More experienced cyclists may enjoy routes in southern states such as Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, where infrastructure and road conditions tend to be better.
Visitors planning to cycle should use well-marked routes, avoid riding after dark and stay aware of local safety advice. For most travellers, cycling is best enjoyed as a short recreational activity rather than a primary mode of transport.
Long-distance buses are one of the most popular and practical ways to travel across Brazil. The country has an extensive intercity coach network linking almost every major city, regional centre and many smaller towns. Services vary from basic standard buses to comfortable executive and premium coaches with spacious reclining seats, air-conditioning and onboard amenities.
Major companies include Viação Itapemirim, Águia Branca, Real Expresso and Cometa, among others, each operating on specific regional routes. Journeys between major cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba and Porto Alegre are frequent and generally reliable. Overnight buses are common for longer distances and can be a convenient way to save time and accommodation costs.
Bus stations (rodoviárias) are usually well organised and serve as transport hubs, though they can be busy. Tickets can be purchased online, at station counters or through authorised agencies. Prices vary according to distance and service level, and booking in advance is advisable during holidays and peak travel periods.
Traffic drives on the right in Brazil. Speed limits vary by region and road type but are generally 30–60 km/h (19–37 mph) in urban areas, 80 km/h (50 mph) on rural roads and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on major highways. Limits are clearly signposted, and speed cameras are widely used across cities and federal highways.
Seat belts are compulsory for all occupants, and children must travel in appropriate car seats or booster seats depending on their age and size. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless operated through a hands-free system. Drink-driving laws are strict: Brazil enforces a near-zero tolerance policy, and penalties for violations include heavy fines, licence suspension and possible detention.
Drivers should be cautious at night, especially on rural or poorly lit roads, where visibility, road quality and unexpected obstacles can pose risks. In large cities, traffic congestion is common, and some areas of São Paulo operate a vehicle rotation system (rodízio) during peak hours, restricting cars based on licence plate numbers.
Police checkpoints are common on highways and within cities. Drivers must carry their licence, vehicle registration documents and insurance at all times and present them when requested.
Brazil does not have a single nationwide breakdown service, but assistance is still widely available. Most major car hire companies include basic roadside support in their rental packages, so travellers should check the details before setting off. In urban areas and along busy highways, private tow truck operators and mechanical workshops can usually be reached quickly, though response times in remote regions may be slower.
On toll roads, concession operators often provide emergency assistance, including towing, minor mechanical help and first aid. Contact information is displayed on roadside signs and printed on toll receipts. In rural areas, help may be limited, so carrying a charged mobile phone, water and essential supplies is advisable when driving long distances.
Foreign visitors may drive in Brazil using a valid driving licence from their home country, provided it is accompanied by a passport. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if the licence is not in Portuguese, and some car hire companies may require it. Drivers must also carry the rental agreement and proof of insurance at all times.
Traffic police or highway patrol officers may request these documents during routine checks. Failure to present them can result in fines or restrictions on continuing the journey. Travellers planning extended stays should confirm whether additional requirements apply for long-term driving in Brazil.
Brazil's major cities offer a mix of public transport options, though the availability and efficiency vary widely between regions. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have the most extensive networks, with metro lines, suburban trains and rapid bus corridors providing relatively fast travel across busy districts. Both cities also have large fleets of buses that cover almost every neighbourhood, though routes can be confusing for newcomers.
In other cities such as Brasília, Belo Horizonte, Recife, Salvador and Porto Alegre, public transport relies heavily on buses, with limited but growing metro or light-rail services. While buses are affordable and frequent, they may be crowded during peak hours. Some cities operate integrated ticketing systems, making transfers easier.
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, 99 and Cabify are widely used across urban areas and often provide a convenient and reasonably priced alternative to public transport. Taxis are plentiful, especially at airports, major hotels and city centres. In smaller towns, moto-taxis and informal minibuses may be common, though visitors should use reputable services whenever possible.
Walking can be enjoyable in central and tourist-friendly areas, but travellers should remain aware of their surroundings and seek local advice on safety. In some cities, heavy traffic and uneven pavements make walking less practical over long distances. Dedicated cycle lanes exist in places like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, but their coverage varies, so cyclists should plan routes carefully.
Domestic passenger rail travel in Brazil is limited. Unlike many large countries, Brazil does not have an extensive national rail network for long-distance passenger services, and most intercity travel is conducted by air or coach. The few existing passenger lines tend to be short, regional routes rather than major cross-country connections.
Some railways operate primarily for tourism, offering scenic journeys through mountains, forests or historic regions. Well-known examples include the Curitiba–Morretes route in Paraná, which winds through the lush Serra do Mar, and the steam-powered trains around Tiradentes in Minas Gerais. These heritage and tourist lines are popular day trips but do not function as practical transport links between cities.
Urban rail networks, such as the metros in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília and Belo Horizonte, play an important role in local commuting but do not extend far beyond metropolitan areas. For longer distances, travellers will find flying or long-distance buses far more effective.
Brazil's vast river systems, particularly in the Amazon region, make water transport an important means of travel in the north of the country. Long-distance riverboats operate along major waterways such as the Rio Amazonas, Rio Madeira and Rio Negro, connecting cities like Manaus, Santarém, Belém and smaller riverside communities. These journeys can take several days and offer a unique insight into life along the river, with passengers typically travelling in hammocks or basic cabins.
In the southern and eastern parts of Brazil, water transport is far less significant. A few ferry services operate in coastal areas, such as those linking Salvador to Itaparica Island and Rio de Janeiro to Niterói, providing convenient and scenic alternatives to road travel.
While river travel can be memorable, it requires patience and careful planning. Boat schedules may vary, conditions can be basic and safety standards differ by operator. Travellers visiting the Amazon should seek reputable companies and local advice before booking long river journeys.
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