Brazil is enormous — the fifth-largest country in the world — so how you get around depends entirely on how much time you have.
By bus: The intercity bus network is excellent. Comfortable air-conditioned coaches cover virtually every city, and on popular routes like São Paulo–Rio (six hours) they leave every hour or two. For overnight journeys, leito buses have fully reclining seats and are worth the premium. Buy tickets at the rodoviária (bus station) or through the bus company's website. The main long-distance operators include Viação Cometa, Itapemirim, and 1001.
By plane: Flying makes sense between cities more than about eight hours apart by bus. LATAM is the dominant domestic carrier; Gol and Azul merged in 2025 and operate as the country's second-largest airline. Book in advance for better fares, especially around Carnival (February–March), July school holidays, and December–January. São Paulo's Congonhas airport handles most domestic routes; Guarulhos handles international plus some domestic flights.
In cities: Most large cities have reasonable bus networks, though they can be crowded and confusing for newcomers. São Paulo, Rio, Brasília, and Porto Alegre have metro systems that are fast and safe. Taxis and ride-share apps (Uber and 99 both operate widely) are generally reliable and affordable by Western standards.
By car: Renting makes sense for exploring the Pantanal, the Serra Gaúcha wine country, or slower coastal stretches of Bahia. Roads around major cities are often jammed; overnight driving on less-travelled highways is not recommended.
In the Amazon: River boats are the standard transport between Manaus, Belém, Santarém, and smaller settlements. Hammock-class travel on a two- or three-day river journey is a classic experience; bring your own hammock or buy one in Manaus.