Rio de Janeiro Airports Guide: Your Complete Guide to GIG & SDU
Opa! Lucas here, your Rio airport guru. I’ve picked up more friends from these airports than I can count, so trust me when I say I know every shortcut, every scam to avoid, and every smart move to make your airport experience smooth as a caipirinha on the beach.
Rio's Two Airports: GIG vs SDU (The Real Deal)
First things first – Rio has TWO airports, and knowing which one you’re flying into makes all the difference in the world.
Galeão International Airport (GIG)
Full name: Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport
Distance: 20km from Copacabana (about 45-60 minutes)
Best for: International flights, major airlines
Vibe: Big, modern, but can feel overwhelming
Santos Dumont Airport (SDU)
Distance: 8km from Copacabana (15-30 minutes)
Best for: Domestic flights, some regional international
Vibe: Smaller, more manageable, right in the city
Cool factor: Runway literally ends at the bay – amazing views!
Bottom line: If you’re coming from outside Brazil, you’re probably landing at GIG. If you’re doing a quick domestic hop from São Paulo or another Brazilian city, it might be SDU.
Galeão International Airport (GIG)
Let me break down everything you need to know about our main international airport:
ARRIVAL PROCESS:
- Immigration – Have your passport ready, visa if required
- Baggage claim – It’s well marked, just follow the crowd
- Customs – Green line (nothing to declare) or red line
- Welcome to Rio! – Exit to arrivals hall
AIRPORT FACILITIES:
Free WiFi – Password usually posted everywhere
Currency exchange – Avoid if possible (terrible rates)
ATMs – Banco24Horas network, decent option
Food courts – Expect to pay airport prices
Phone/SIM cards – TIM and Claro counters available
Tourist information – English-speaking staff
CHARGING & CONNECTIVITY:
Charging stations throughout the airport
Free WiFi works well in most areas
International roaming can be expensive – consider local SIM
SLEEPING AT THE AIRPORT:
If you’re stuck overnight:
Minute Suites – Private rooms for rest
Comfort areas – Free reclining chairs
24-hour restaurants – Keep you caffeinated
Security – Airport is safe, but watch your belongings
Getting from GIG to the City (Your Options Ranked)
Here’s my honest take on every transportation option, from someone who’s used them all:
- UBER/99 (Best Overall Option)
Cost: R$45-80 depending on destination and time.
Time: 45-90 minutes (traffic dependent).
Pickup: Follow signs to “App Transport” area.
Pros: Door-to-door, fixed price, safe, AC.
Cons: Surge pricing during peak hours.
Pro tip: Download both Uber AND 99 apps – sometimes one has better prices or availability.
- OFFICIAL TAXI
Cost: R$80-120 (meter + airport fee).
Time: Similar to Uber
Pickup: Official taxi stands outside arrivals.
Pros: No app needed, always available.
Cons: More expensive, some drivers don’t speak English.
- BRT + METRO (Budget Champion)
Cost: R$4,30 for BRT + R$4,30 for metro.
Time: 1.5-2 hours total.
Route: BRT TransCarioca → Metro at Vicente de Carvalho.
Pros: Cheapest option, authentic local experience.
Cons: Can be crowded, lots of transfers, heavy bags are tough.
Reality check: Only do this if you’re on a tight budget and don’t have much luggage.
- PREMIUM/EXECUTIVE BUSES
Cost: R$15-25.
Time: 1-1.5 hours.
Routes: Various routes to different neighborhoods.
Pros: Comfortable, air-conditioned, affordable Cons: Fixed stops, schedules can be limited.
- AIRPORT TRANSFERS (Luxury Option)
Cost: R$120-200+
Pre-booked: Through hotels or online services.
Pros: Meet & greet, guaranteed service, often English-speaking.
Cons: Most expensive, need to book ahead.
Santos Dumont (SDU) - The City Airport
If you’re flying into Santos Dumont, consider yourself lucky – it’s way more convenient!
WHY SDU ROCKS:
Location: Right downtown, amazing city views
Size: Small and manageable
History: One of the world’s first airports
Views: That runway-to-ocean view is Instagram gold
GETTING FROM SDU TO ZONA SUL:
Uber/Taxi: R$25-45, 15-30 minutes
Metro: Carioca Station is walkable (10 minutes)
Bus: Multiple options to Copacabana/Ipanema
VLT (Light Rail): Super modern, connects to metro.
Airport Safety & Scam Prevention
Let me share some local wisdom to keep you safe:
COMMON AIRPORT SCAMS:
Fake taxis – Always use official stands or apps
“Helper” guys – Don’t let strangers carry your bags
Overpriced everything – Airport prices are inflated everywhere
Currency exchange – Worst rates in the city, avoid if possible
SAFETY TIPS:
Keep passport and valuables secure
Don’t accept help from random people
Use ATMs inside the airport, not outside
Have your hotel address written down (not just on your phone)
Keep emergency contacts handy
Practical Airport Tips (From a Local)
Here’s the stuff guidebooks don’t tell you:
BEST TIMES TO TRAVEL:
Avoid rush hours: 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM
Friday evenings: Brutal traffic, budget extra time
Carnival season: Everything takes longer, plan accordingly
WHAT TO DO WHILE WAITING:
At GIG:
Observation deck – Great city views
Shopping – Duty-free, local crafts
Food: Try açaí or pão de açúcar At SDU:
Café do Forte – Historic fort right next door
Walk around downtown if you have hours between flights
PACKING FOR AIRPORT TRANSFERS:
Keep essentials in carry-on
Have cash for tips/small purchases
Download offline maps before you lose WiFi
Pack chargers in easy-to-reach spots
Airport Hotels & Nearby Accommodation
If you need to stay near the airport:
NEAR GIG:
Linx Hotel Galeão – Modern, airport shuttle
Hotel OK – Budget-friendly, basic but clean
Windsor Marapendi – Upscale option in Barra
NEAR SDU:
Any hotel in Centro – Walking distance
Santa Teresa neighborhood – Charming, 15 minutes away
Most Zona Sul hotels – 20-30 minutes max
Immigration & Customs (What to Expect)
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
US/EU citizens: No visa needed for stays under 90 days
Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months
Yellow fever vaccine: Only required if coming from risk areas
Return ticket: Sometimes requested (have it ready)
CUSTOMS ALLOWANCES:
Alcohol: 12 liters total
Cigarettes: 10 packs
Electronics: Personal use items okay
Cash: Declare if over $10,000 USD equivalent
Tip: Most tourists go through the green “nothing to declare” line without issues.
Food & Shopping at Rio Airports
GIG FOOD OPTIONS:
Zona Franca – Brazilian dishes, try the feijoada
Café Donuts – Quick coffee and snacks
McDonald’s – Yes, even here, but try local stuff!
Boteco Casual – Brazilian bar food
SDU FOOD OPTIONS:
Confeitaria Colombo – Historic Rio café chain
Various local options – Usually better than typical airport food
SHOPPING:
Souvenirs: Christ the Redeemer statues, Brazilian coffee
Duty-free: Standard international brands
Local crafts: Havaianas, Brazilian fashion brands
Special Situations & Tips
IF YOUR FLIGHT IS DELAYED:
Free WiFi keeps you connected
Comfortable seating areas throughout both airports
24-hour options for food and basic needs
Airport hotels for long delays
TRAVELING WITH KIDS:
Play areas available at GIG
Family restrooms with changing facilities
Stroller-friendly – both airports are accessible
ACCESSIBILITY:
Wheelchair assistance – Request when booking
Accessible restrooms throughout
Elevator access to all levels
Special assistance desks for additional help
Emergency Contacts & Useful Info Keep these handy on your phone:
Airport Police: 190
Tourist Police: +55 21 2511-3309
Airport Information GIG: +55 21 3398-5050
Airport Information SDU: +55 21 3814-7070
Lost & Found GIG: Terminal 2, Level 1
Medical Services: Available 24/7 at both airports
Final Airport Wisdom from Your Rio Friend
Look, airports are never fun anywhere in the world, but Rio’s airports are actually pretty decent. GIG can feel overwhelming if it’s your first time, but the signage is good and there’s always someone who speaks English around.
My top advice?
- Download ride-sharing apps before you land
- Have some Brazilian Reals for tips and small purchases
- Don’t stress about perfect Portuguese – we’re used to international visitors
- Take a deep breath and remember – you’re about to experience one of the world’s most beautiful cities!
One last thing: Once you’re in that Uber heading to Zona Sul and you see that first glimpse of Copacabana beach… trust me, any airport stress will melt away instantly.
Ready to explore Rio? Check out our neighborhood guide to find the perfect place to stay, and don’t miss our complete Rio transportation guide for getting around the city like a local!
Need accommodation near the airport or in Rio’s best neighborhoods? [Compare prices and book the perfect hotel for your Rio adventure – from budget-friendly options to luxury beachfront resorts!]