Rio de Janeiro City Guide

Discover Rio de Janeiro's intoxicating beauty and infectious energy with our self-guided audio tour app, allowing you to explore Brazil's marvelous city at your own pace.

HOW TO REACH

Arriving at Rio de Janeiro by Air
Rio de Janeiro's main international gateway is Galeão International Airport (GIG), located about 20 km north of the city center.

Step-by-Step Arrival Process
Most international flights arrive at Terminal 2; domestic flights use Terminal 1, connected by a walkway. Upon landing, follow signs to immigration (passaporte control) on the ground floor—expect lines of 15-45 minutes for passport stamps and visa checks. Collect baggage from carousels, then pass customs (green channel for nothing to declare). Official taxis, Uber, and 99 rideshares wait at designated zones outside arrivals (look for Door C/D in Terminal 2). Pre-book transfers for safety.

Ground Transport Options
Taxis/Uber: Fixed fares to Copacabana (~R$120, 45-60 min); avoid unofficial cabs.

BRT Bus: Affordable to city center (Alvorada station).

Private Shuttle: R$100-200 per person to hotels.

Budget 1-2 hours total from gate to city; peak times add delays. Santos-Dumont (SDU) serves domestic flights near downtown.