Buses, Uber & Local Transport
Long-Distance Buses — For Medium Distances
Brazil has a good long-distance bus network, but the distances make buses only sensible for shorter routes (up to 8–10h). The buses are modern, air-conditioned (often VERY cold — bring a jacket!), and divided into three classes:
- Convencional: Standard, seats slightly reclinable. Cheapest option.
- Executivo: Wider seats, more legroom, snacks. Recommended.
- Leito: Reclining seats (180°), blanket, pillow. Ideal for night trips, but twice as expensive.
Important Bus Companies
- 1001: Largest route network in the southeast (Rio–São Paulo, Rio–Búzios).
- Kaissara: Rio–Minas Gerais, Rio–Northeast.
- Itapemirim: Nationwide network, solid standard.
- Viação Cometa: São Paulo–South, comfortable Leito buses.
Important Bus Routes
| Route | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| São Paulo → Rio de Janeiro | 5.5–6h | 10–25€ |
| Rio → Búzios | 3h | 6–12€ |
| Rio → Paraty | 4.5h | 8–15€ |
| São Paulo → Curitiba | 6h | 10–20€ |
| Curitiba → Foz do Iguaçu | 9–10h | 15–30€ |
| Salvador → Lençóis (Chapada Diamantina) | 6h | 8–15€ |
City Transport
- Uber / 99: In all Brazilian cities the most convenient and safest transport option. Cheaper than taxis, GPS-tracked, paid via app. The app "99" (Brazilian) is sometimes even cheaper than Uber. Both are available everywhere and absolutely indispensable.
- Metro: São Paulo has Brazil's largest subway network (6 lines). Rio has 3 metro lines (Copacabana–Centro well connected). Both clean and safe.
- City Buses: Cheap (approx. 5 BRL / 0.80€), but confusing for tourists. Windows often closed due to air conditioning. Google Maps shows bus routes.
- Boats: The main means of transport in the Amazon and along the coast. From Manaus to Belém (4–5 days by ship, hammock, pure adventure!).
Achtung
Do NOT take taxis from the street in Brazil, especially not at night. Always use Uber or 99. On buses: Never keep valuables in the overhead compartment, but between your legs. At the bus station (Rodoviária): Watch your luggage, especially in São Paulo and Rio.