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How to Get to Serra

How to Get to Serra

Espirito Santo Brazil Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Flights to VIX

Serra is served by Eurico de Aguiar Salles Airport (VIX), aka Vitória Airport or Goiabeiras Airport. Located in Vitória, adjacent to Serra, it's about 15-20 km from central Serra. VIX does not give direct international flights.

Information

  • Airlines: LATAM, GOL, Azul.
  • Domestic Routes: From major Brazilian hubs (São Paulo, Rio, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Brasília).
  • International Connections: Connect using São Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG).

Seasonal & Transfers

Flight prices to VIX typically increase during Brazilian summer (Dec-Feb), major holidays, and July. Lower prices occur during shoulder and low seasons. Book well in advance for peak travel times. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Transfers

  • Taxis readily available outside terminal.
  • Uber and 99 widely available; pick-up points marked.
  • Public bus lines (Transcol) connect airport to Vitória & Serra.

Airport Amenities

VIX is a modern airport with eateries, cafes, shops, vehicle rental firms, ATMs, and free Wi-Connectivity.

Car Rental

Major foreign and local car rental companies maintain desks at the airport, allowing flexibility for those who wish to self-drive.

Booking Advice

Book flights well in advance, especially for peak travel times, to secure better rates. Consider using flight comparison websites for deals.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing

  • Brazil does not typically charge specific exit fees. Costs are usually in ticket prices.
  • Domestic Flights (VIX): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • International Connections: Allow several hours buffer at major hubs (GRU/GIG).
  • Online check-in often available, saving airport time.

Station Facilities

  • VIX Airport: Waiting lounges, restaurants, cafes, restrooms.
  • Larger air terminals for international connections: duty-free shops available.
  • Vitória Bus Terminal: Waiting areas, snack bars, basic amenities.
  • Arrive at bus terminal 30-45 minutes before you leave.

Border & Sea/River Travel

Border Crossing

Serra is an internal Brazilian destination; information on crossing the border does not apply directly.

Ferry/Cruise

Port of Vitória is commercial; no regular passenger water transport to Serra. Cruise ships rarely visit Vitória. Land transit from port.

River Transport

River transportation is not applicable for Serra due to geography and growth of the city.

Land Transportation

Train & Long-Distance Buses

Passenger train service (Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas - EFVM) connects Greater Vitória to Belo Horizonte. The main train station is in Cariacica, near Serra. Long-cross-country buses from Rodoviária de Vitória connect Serra to cities across Espírito Santo and other Brazilian states.

Bus Options

  • Conventional: Standard seating.
  • Executive/Semi-sleeper/Sleeper: More comfort options.
  • Book bus tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or holidays.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Renting a car DiscoverCars.com offers flexibility. You need a valid driver's license (AN idp is advised). Road conditions are generally reasonable on major highways (BR-101, ES-010), but rural roads vary.

Driving Laws & Tips

  • Drive on the right, you must wear seatbelts. Using cell phone illegal.
  • Night driving outside urban centers not recommended due to lighting/crime.
  • Brazilian drivers can be aggressive; defensive driving advised.

Driving Requirements

Rental companies require drivers to be 21-25 years old and a credit card in the driver's name for deposit. Speed limits vary (ABOUT 37 miles/h urban, 80-110 km/h highways). Some highways have tolls.

Reminders

  • Valid driver's license from home country.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended.
  • Street parking can be challenging. 'Flanelinhas' (attendants) may request payment.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists in Serra. They are generally not recommended due to traffic conditions, local driving styles, and safety concerns. Bicycle rentals for checking out the surroundings might be available near beaches like Jacaraípe or Manguinhos.

Biking Safety

  • Always wear a Helmet.
  • Turn on lights if cycling in low-light conditions.
  • Limited dedicated bike lanes; cycling on main roads poses hazards.

Safety Considerations for Driving/Cycling

  • Observe signs with speed limits and congestion signs.
  • Be aware of varied road quality; unpaved sections and potholes possible.
  • Night driving outside urban centers not recommended due to poor lighting and potential for crime.
  • Defensive driving is highly recommended due to aggressive local drivers.
  • Avoid displaying precious belongings in vehicles.
  • Stay on well-lit-trafficked and well-lit zones when walking or cycling.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian & Cycling Areas

Beachfront promenades in Jacaraípe and Manguinhos offer pleasant and safe areas for walking. Green spaces, like Parque da Cidade, and certain urban areas have sidewalks. However, pedestrian infrastructure can be inconsistent in other parts of the municipality.

Walking Insights

  • No formal organized walking tours particularly for Serra widely advertised.
  • Self-guided exploration of heritage sites in Nova Almeida or seaside areas is possible.
  • Guided tours focusing on specific Serra attractions may be an option from operators based in Vitória.

Biking Infrastructure & Safety

Serra has limited dedicated bike lanes. Cycling on main roads can pose hazards due to traffic volume and aggressive driving. Some areas might feature shared paths that cyclists can use. Always wear a helmet and turn on lights if you're on a bike in low-light conditions.

Safety Measures

  • Avoid walking or cycling in isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.
  • Always remain aware of your surroundings due to crime risks.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and well-lit zones for safety.

Pedestrian-Friendly

Beachfront promenades and city parks offer pleasant walking areas.

Cycling Limitations

Limited dedicated bike lanes; caution advised on main roads.

Specialized Transport

No hop-on-hop-off services or unique local getting around like cable cars.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Serra does not feature many specialized transportation modes frequently located in other tourist destinations. No tourist bus-on-hop-off services are available specifically within Serra. Tour operators based in Vitória may offer excursions that include Serra attractions.

Boat & River

  • Boat taxis and regular water transportation are not common means of transportation within Serra.
  • Some small coastal fishing villages, like Manguinhos, might have small boats for local purposes or fishing excursions.
  • River transportation is not applicable for Serra.

Unique Transport & Accessibility

Serra does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems of this nature. Accessibility services remain limited, similar to the overall public transport system.

Accessibility Notes

  • Newer Transcol buses offer some accessibility features.
  • Access to attractions plus common spaces can still present challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Research specific sites beforehand for accessibility details.

Connecting from Ports

Cruise Ship Arrivals

For cruise passengers arriving at the Port of Vitória, immigration procedures are handled upon arrival at the dock. Follow instructions from authorities.

Land Connections

From the Port of Vitória, easily connect to Serra using taxis, ride-sharing services, or public buses.

Direct Routes

These options provide direct directions to various neighborhoods in Serra, making onward travel simple.

Transport Summary

Serra's local transportation is mainly based on the Transcol bus system and ride-sharing apps. While direct international air travel is via Vitória, getting around locally is straightforward once you get to know the options.