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How to Get to Brasilia

How to Get to Brasilia

Brasilia Federal District, Brazil Travel Guide

Air Travel

Brasília International Airport

Brasília International Airport – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek (BSB) is the main airport, serving as an important hub for domestic flights and offering some international connections.

Airlines & Routes

  • Domestic: LATAM, GOL, and Azul offer extensive connections across Brazil.
  • International: Limited direct flights (e.g., Lisbon, Miami, Panama City, Buenos Aires).
  • Most international travelers connect through São Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

BSB Airport offers basic amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, car rental agencies, ATMs, and currency exchange services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.

Transfer Options

  • Taxis are available outside the terminal, metered for fair pricing.
  • Ride-sharing Apps like Uber and 99 are popular and often more economical.
  • Airport Bus (Linha Executiva) connects to Plano Piloto and Hotel Sectors.

Seasonal Prices

Prices generally increase during Brazilian national holidays, school vacations (July, Dec-Jan), and the dry season (May-Sep). Booking in advance Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for options.

Booking Advice

Booking flights well in advance secures better rates. Flexibility with travel dates helps find more affordable options. Peak season travel calls for early arrangements.

Baggage Guidance

Confirm airline baggage policies, including carry-on and checked luggage limits, before flying to avoid unexpected fees. Pack efficiently to meet size and weight restrictions.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

  • International Flights: Arrive at BSB airport at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at BSB airport at least 2 hours before departure.
  • Online check-in is recommended to save time at the airport.
  • Standard security checks apply. Prepare to remove electronics and liquids.

Airport/Station Facilities

  • BSB Airport: Offers various dining options, shops, lounges, and Wi-Fi.
  • Rodoferroviária (Bus Terminal): Features food stalls, shops, restrooms, and waiting areas.
  • No specific exit fees or taxes are levied beyond airline ticket prices.
  • Contact your airline or bus line for specific departure instructions.

Booking Flights & Accommodation

Flight Deals

Look for discounted flights using services like Dollar Flight Club.

Price Comparison

Use Skyscanner to compare prices across various airlines and travel agencies.

Flexible Dates

Consider flexible travel dates to find the most economical flight options.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Bus Options

Brasília's main long-distance bus terminal, Rodoferroviária de Brasília, is a hub for connections across Brazil. It has an extensive network.

Bus Companies & Classes

  • Major operators: Guanabara, Cometa, Itapemirim, Real Expresso, Útil.
  • Services range from conventional (comum) to executive (executivo).
  • Semi-bed (semi-leito) and full-bed (leito) options offer reclining seats for overnight journeys.

Train Connections Not Applicable

Brasília does not have long-distance passenger train services. Rail travel within Brazil is limited mainly to cargo and a few tourist lines in other regions.

Alternative Travel

  • Air travel is the main option over long distances.
  • Buses have wide-ranging inter-city travel.
  • Car rentals provide flexibility for regional exploration.

Self-Driving Considerations

Road conditions on major federal highways (BRs) connecting to Brasília are generally well-maintained. Conditions vary significantly on smaller state roads.

Requirements & Navigation

  • A valid domestic driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) are for foreigners.
  • A GPS system (Google Maps, Waze) is a necessity for navigation.
  • Major international and local car rental companies DiscoverCars.com are at BSB Airport.

Road Conditions & Safety

Driving distances are long. Be aware of varying driving styles, speed traps, and the potential for unlit roads at night. Fuel depots are widely available on main routes.

Driving Laws & Tips

  • Drive on the correct lane for traffic. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Cell phone use while driving is prohibited. Speed limits are enforced.
  • The alcohol limit for drivers is zero. Avoid driving long distances at night.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

  • Brasília is a city not on the coast, a long way from any coastline.
  • Major navigable rivers for passenger transport do not reach Brasília.
  • Sea or river arrivals are not relevant for reaching Brasília.
  • Boat tours on Lake Paranoá are for leisure, not transportation.
  • No seaports or cruise terminals are connected to the city.
  • Therefore, immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable here.

Airport Facilities

Dining & Shopping

BSB Airport has various dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals. Duty-free shops and other retail stores are available for last-minute purchases.

Amenities

  • Wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
  • Duty-free and neighborhood stores for gifts and travel essentials.
  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.

Services & Lounges

The the airport has essential services to make your departure comfortable. Lounges are available for travelers seeking a more relaxed environment.

Available Services

  • ATMs and currency exchange services.
  • Comfortable lounges where you can pre-flight relaxation.
  • Car rental counters for last-minute arrangements.

Check-in Efficiency

Use online check-in services to reduce wait times at the airport and streamline your departure process. This saves time.

Customer Assistance

Airport staff are accessible to provide assistance with any queries or concerns regarding your flight or airport services.

Parking Options

Both short-term and long-term parking options are available at the airport for those arriving by private vehicle.

Intercity Travel

Bus Travel Comfort

Long-distance buses in Brazil offer various levels of comfort.

Service Classes

  • Conventional (Comum): Standard seating, basic amenities.
  • Executive (Executivo): More comfortable seats, air conditioning.
  • Leito/Semi-Leito: Reclining seats, often with blankets and pillows for overnight travel.

Planning Bus Journeys

Booking bus tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak seasons, is advisable. Online booking platforms provide convenience.

Booking & Schedule

  • Purchase tickets at the Rodoferroviária terminal or online.
  • Check schedules and availability, especially for long-distance routes.
  • Become acquainted with the route and estimated travel time.

Road Travel Safety

Night Driving

Avoid driving long distances at night, especially on less-traveled roads, for safety.

Driving Styles

Be aware of varying driving styles and road conditions across different regions.

Vehicle Checks

Ensure rental vehicles are in good condition and all safety features are operational.

Travel Planning Tip

Allocate sufficient travel time between destinations, considering potential delays, especially during peak travel periods.

How to Get to Brasilia. Flights, Transportation, Airlines