How to Get to Goiania. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Public Transportation: The Bus Network

Goiânia''s mass transit system relies mainly on buses, as the city does not have a metro or tram system. The Integrated Transportation Network (Rede Metropolitana de Transporte Coletivo - RMTC) serves Goiânia and its surrounding metropolitan areas, a comprehensive way to travel.

The bus system includes conventional bus lines covering most of the city, and BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) corridors with lanes for specific use for faster service on major routes. Integration Terminals (Terminais de Integração) allow passengers to transfer between separate bus lines without an additional fare. Route maps exist online via the RMTC website, Google Maps, or the Moovit app.

Ticketing & Operating Hours

Single bus fare: R$ 4.30-5.00 (early 2024).
"Sitpass" card: Rechargeable a smart pass, highly recommended for convenience.
Operating hours: Early morning (approx. 5:00 AM) until late evening (midnight-1:00 AM).
Frequency varies by route and time of day; higher frequency on primary routes.

Main Hubs

Bus Terminal, Terminal Isidória, Terminal Bandeiras, Terminal Cruzeiro, Terminal Veiga Jardim.

Accessibility

Improving with newer buses and BRT, but not all stops are fully accessible.

Navigating Tips

Use Google Maps/Moovit, get a Sitpass, avoid rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).

Sitpass Card Advantages

For Travelers

Simplifies bus travel, removes the need for exact change.
Streamlines transfers within the integrated network.
Purchase and top-up at terminals, authorized vendors, or self-service machines.

Efficiency & Convenience

Speeds up boarding, reducing overall travel time.
May offer slight advantages in terms of integrated fares.
Easy to obtain at major transportation points.

Tips for Bus Travel

Plan Ahead

Check routes and schedules using apps.

Stay Aware

Be mindful of belongings, especially during peak hours.

Validate

Tap Sitpass card upon boarding.

Local Knowledge

Ask locals for directions or route clarity.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient and flexible transportation options in Goiânia, especially for direct routes or when carrying luggage.

Taxis in Goiânia

Licensed taxis (white cars, red stripe) operate with meters.
Hail on street, find at stands (airport, bus terminal, malls), or call.
Fares: Base R$ 5-7, per km R$ 3-5. Airport to city: R$ 40-70.
Payment typically cash, many accept credit/debit.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber is widely available and popular, with various service levels.
99 (popular Brazilian app) often competitive with Uber.
Payment via linked credit card in-app, or cash option directly to driver.
Always confirm driver, vehicle model, and license plate match app details. This practice safeguards travelers and avoids confusion.

Safety Protocols

Taxis from official stands generally safe.
Share ride-sharing trip details with a trusted contact.
Avoid unmarked cars posing as ride-shares.

Airport: Official taxi stands clearly marked, ride-share pick-up areas designated.
Bus Terminal: Taxi stands available, ride-share near main entrance.
Both Uber and 99 apps have in-app safety features including emergency buttons.

Ride-Sharing Price Estimates R$

Short Trip 5km

R$ 15-25

Medium Trip 10km

R$ 25-40

Airport to City Center

R$ 30-60

Rental Options: Cars, Bikes & More

Rental vehicles offer independence for exploring Goiânia and its surroundings. Consider your itinerary and comfort with local road conditions.

Car Rental

Requirements: 21+ years old, valid national driver's license + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Valid credit card in driver's name for deposit, and passport.
Major companies: Localiza, Unidas, Movida, Hertz, Avis.
Book ahead of time for lower prices and availability, especially during high season.

Motorcycle, Scooter & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle/scooter rentals: Less common for tourists, limited availability. Not recommended for unfamiliar visitors.
Bicycle sharing: Limited programs. Some hotels or specialized shops offer rentals.
Cycling infrastructure is improving but not as developed as in some European cities.
Specialty vehicles (tuk-tuks, jeepneys) are not common in Goiânia.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits enforced. Zero-tolerance for drunk driving.

No mobile use without hands-free.

Road Conditions

Major highways well-maintained. Secondary roads differ in quality.

Be prepared for uneven surfaces or unpaved sections.

Parking

Street parking challenging in central areas. Look for "Zona Azul" (paid) spots.

Shopping malls and hotels often offer paid garages.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Goiânia's green spaces (Parque Flamboyant, Vaca Brava, Buritis) invite pleasant walks.
Setor Marista and Setor Bueno feature wide, tree-lined streets ideal for walking.
Historic center (Centro) for self-guided architectural tours; vigilance advised after dark.

Cycling in the City

Some dedicated bicycle lanes (Ciclovias) exist, connecting parks and major avenues.
Safety paramount: always wear a Helmet, use lights at night.
Avoid walking or cycling alone in deserted or poorly lit areas, particularly after dark.

Areas to Exercise Caution

Crowded areas where petty crime can occur.
Public transportation during rush hour.
Certain peripheral neighborhoods (Periferia) are not recommended for tourists.
Poorly lit streets at night.

Always remain aware of your surroundings.
Avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry.
Keep your phone secure and out of easy reach.
Be cautious of individuals who approach you asking for help or offering unsolicited services.

Specialized Transportation Not Applicable

Goiânia does not feature many specialized transportation methods found in other parts of Brazil or the world.

Not Available in Goiânia

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not a common feature.
Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable (landlocked city).
Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems are not present.
Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not common in the city.

Accessibility Services

Improving, but consistency remains a challenge.
Some specialty transit services or adaptive taxis may exist upon request.
Research and pre-booking specialized services for mobility challenges is wise advice.
Public transport accessibility is inconsistent.

General Transportation Rules & Etiquette

Public Bus Etiquette

Offer seats to elderly, pregnant, or people with children. Move to the back of the bus.

Keep noise levels low.
Hold onto handrails firmly.
Signal your stop in advance.

Taxi & Ride-Share Manners

Be polite to drivers. Confirm your destination clearly.

Avoid eating or drinking heavily.
Respect the driver's vehicle.
Provide feedback via app if you use ride-sharing.

General Travel Conduct

Be patient, especially during rush hour. Maintain situational awareness.

Keep valuables out of sight.
Utilize official channels for transport.
Be respectful of local customs.

Safety Reminder for All Transport

Personal Security

Always secure your bags and personal items.
Keep an eye on your surroundings.
Don't use your phone openly in crowded areas.

Emergency Contacts

Know local emergency numbers (Police 190, Ambulance 192).
Have your hotel contact information readily available.
If in doubt, seek assistance from reputable sources (hotel staff, official information points).