Getting Around Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is vast and complex, with its main concrete arteries often creating an intimidating cacophony of revving engines and impatient horns. However, a clean and efficient metro system, alongside affordable Ubers and yellow taxis, makes Rio straightforward to navigate.
During daylight hours, exploring Rio’s main streets on foot is generally safe; however, it’s best avoided at night. If you find yourself on foot at night, stick to the busiest streets. Here’s everything you need to know about getting around Rio de Janeiro.
Explore the Lengths of the City via the Metro
Rio’s metro system is an excellent way to get around – its three lines are air-conditioned, clean, and efficient. Line 1 runs from Ipanema-General Osório to Uruguai in the north zone. Line 2, partly overlapping with Line 1, travels from Botafogo to Pavuna, passing Maracanã football stadium along the way. Line 3 connects Ipanema-General Osório with the eastern end of Barra da Tijuca at Jardim Oceânico.
You can purchase a cartão pré-pago (prepaid card) from a kiosk in any metro station using cash, with a minimum of R$5. The card can be recharged at any kiosk and free subway maps are available from most ticket booths.
Stretch Your Budget by Taking the Bus
Rio’s BRS (Bus Rapid System) features dedicated public transportation corridors in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, and Barra. Fares on most buses are around R$3.80.
Each bus displays its key destination on the illuminated signboard in front. To catch the bus, simply hail it by extending your arm straight out, as drivers won’t stop unless flagged down.
Beach-hop on an Orange Bicycle
Rio has extensive bike paths along the beach, around Lagoa, and through Parque do Flamengo. The city’s public bike-sharing scheme, Bike Rio, consists of bright-orange bikes found at more than 250 stations.
After getting started on the website or app, you can buy a monthly pass or a two-day pass. Many stations also offer a pay-on-the-spot option for a day pass, allowing for 30 minutes of free use, with additional charges thereafter.
Glide Overground on the Light Rail
Rio’s new light rail, the VLT, is part of a massive urban renewal effort that revitalized the Centro area. Launched in 2016, the VLT has 26 stations across two routes through downtown. Convenient access for visitors is at Cinelândia to Praça Mauá.
Log on to Find a Taxi
Rio’s yellow taxis are plentiful and easy to hail, particularly via free apps. They provide a speedy and generally safe means of transport. The flat rate starts at around R$5.50, plus approximately R$2.50 per kilometer (higher rates apply at night and on Sundays).
Ubers are also popular and easy to secure, often providing a more affordable option for groups traveling longer distances across the city.
Swerve the Moto-Taxi
In Rocinha and some other favelas, you may encounter moto-taxis that offer short rides, typically costing R$3. However, venturing randomly into a favela may not be wise.
Hire a Car as a Last Resort
Driving in Rio can be frustrating due to traffic and parking challenges. Car-rental agencies are available at both airports and along Copacabana.
Accessible Transportation in Rio de Janeiro
Given Rio’s uneven paving and lack of lifts at many metro stations, navigating the city may pose challenges for wheelchair users or those with reduced mobility.
For accessible options, Especial Coop Taxi provides vehicles with lifts for wheelchair users, along with an app for bookings. Several reliable radio-taxi operators offer services as well.
This content is designed to assist you in navigating your way around the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro using various transportation options available.
