MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Duque De Caxias

Getting Around Duque De Caxias

Duque De Caxias Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Public transportation forms the backbone of movement for residents in Duque de Caxias. It is a cost-effective way for visitors to explore. Trains (SuperVia): The SuperVia urban rail system is an effective public transport option connecting Duque de Caxias to Rio de Janeiro City. Duque de Caxias sits on the Saracuruna line, terminating at Central do Brasil station. This train line is a direct and relatively fast connection. Buses: An extensive network of local and intercity buses operates within Duque de Caxias. These coaches connect neighborhoods and link the city in order to other municipalities in the Baixada Fluminense, and sections of Rio de Janeiro City. Many private companies run these routes. Metro/Tram: Duque de Caxias does not have direct metro or tram lines. The Rio de Janeiro Metro system reaches nearby municipalities, but you need a bus or train connection from Caxias to access it.

Fares & Ticketing

  • Cartão Riocard Mais: A rechargeable electronic card. For all public transport (trains, buses, metro, VLT, ferries). Purchase and recharge at train stations, major coach terminals, and authorized retailers.
  • Cash: Accepted on most buses, but Riocard Mais is more convenient.
  • Train Fare: Single journey on SuperVia is R$ 7.40 (early 2024).
  • Local Bus Fare: Typically R$ 4.50 to R$ 6.00, depending on route.

Navigation & Hubs

SuperVia: Route maps are online and at train stations. Duque de Caxias train station is a central hub. Buses: Routes are extensive. Google Maps is great for planning. Terminal Rodoviário de Duque de Caxias (TERCAM) and Praça do Pacificador are major bus hubs.

Operating Times

Trains: SuperVia runs from early morning (around 4:30 AM) until late evening (around midnight). Frequency reduces during weekends and public holidays. Buses: Buses operate throughout the day and into the night, with reduced frequency late at night. Some essential lines run 24/7.

Accessibility & Advice

Accessibility for public transport presents challenges for mobility needs. Newer SuperVia trains and some newer buses have improved accessibility. Older infrastructure and vehicles may not. Use Google Maps, get a Riocard Mais. Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM). Stay aware of surroundings on crowded transport.

Efficient Travel Tips

Smart Planning
  • Google Maps for real-time bus/train schedules.
  • Obtain a 'Cartão Riocard Mais' for easier payments.
  • Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) on weekdays.
Situational Awareness
  • Stay vigilant on crowded public transport to safeguard belongings.
  • Keep an eye on bus numbers and destinations.
  • Ask for clarification if unsure about routes.

Public Transport Snapshot

SuperVia Train

Connects Duque de Caxias to Rio's Central do Brasil.

Local Buses

Extensive network within Duque de Caxias and to nearby municipalities.

Riocard Mais

Electronic card needed for all public transport.

Accessibility

Challenges exist for mobility needs; some newer transport better.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer more direct and private transportation options.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: White cars, often with a red stripe and 'TAXI' sign. Drivers display ID badge.
  • Hailing: Flag down on the street or find at Pontos de táxi. Ensure meter is on or agree on fare.
  • Payment: Cash always accepted. Some accept bank cards.
  • Fares: Short trip within Caxias R$ 15-30. Varies by distance, time, traffic.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Uber: Widely available and popular throughout the Rio metropolitan area, including Duque de Caxias.
  • 99: Brazilian ride-sharing app, popular and competitive with Uber on pricing and availability.
  • Safety: Generally safer than hailing random taxis (driver ID, SATELLITE tracking, ratings). Verify car, plate, driver name.
  • Payment: Convenient in-app payment.

Transfers to/from Hubs

  • Airport Taxis: Official taxi cooperatives at GIG and SDU airports.
  • Reliable options available at designated stands.
  • Fixed fares or metered rides.
  • Station Taxis: Designated taxi stands common at train/bus stations in Duque de Caxias.
  • Good for reliable, on-demand transport.
  • Can be pre-booked for convenience.

Taxi & Ride-Share Safety

Licensed Taxis

Take official, licensed taxis. Verify legitimacy if hailing. For nighttime, call a taxi or use a designated stand.

Ride-Sharing Verification

Always verify car model, license plate, and driver's name in the app before entering the vehicle.

Avoid Unmarked Cars

Do not use unlicensed or unmarked vehicles, regardless of the price offered. Being safe is priority.

Rental Vehicles

Renting a car offers flexibility but comes with its own considerations in the Rio metropolitan area.

Car Rental Procedures

  • Requirements: Driver at least 21 (some companies 25+). Valid national driver's license + International Driving Permit (DiscoverCars.com).
  • Credit Card: In driver's name for security deposit.
  • Companies: Localiza, Movida, Unidas, Hertz, Avis. Branches mainly at airports or in Rio City. Limited direct options in Caxias.
  • Booking: Book in advance, inspect vehicle thoroughly for damage (take photos).

Driving Rules & Parking

  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. You must wear seatbelts. Speed limits enforced. Zero-tolerance for driving under influence.
  • Road Conditions: Major highways generally good. Local roads vary. Heavy traffic is constant.
  • Parking: Challenging in busy areas. Paid street parking (Zona Azul) or private lots (Estacionamentos) available.
  • Safety: Driving in Rio metro area needs attention. Aggressive drivers, potential for carjacking. Avoid unknown areas after dark.

Other Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter

Not as common for visitors. Needs specific motorcycle license. Not generally recommended due to traffic/safety.

Bicycle Rentals

Duque de Caxias lacks widespread dedicated bicycle infrastructure or sharing. Cycling on main roads is hazardous.

Specialty Vehicles

Options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable to Duque de Caxias. These are not part of local transport.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling are possible for local exploration, with special points to consider.

Pedestrian Areas

  • Regions near the city center, like Praça do Pacificador and central retail streets, are generally walkable.
  • Nearby parks, like Parque Lafaiete, offer green spaces with walking paths.
  • Sidewalks can be uneven; street crossings vigilance.
  • Stick to well-trafficked commercial zones.

Cycling & Restrictions

  • Duque de Caxias has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Cycling on main roads is hazardous due to heavy vehicle traffic.
  • Avoid walking or cycling in isolated, poorly lit, or unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
  • Some informal communities (Favelas) can be dangerous without local guidance.
  • Do not venture into unknown residential zones after dark.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Unique Transport Not Present

Tour buses, boat taxis, cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transports are not applicable to Duque de Caxias.

Accessibility Considerations

Accessibility infrastructure is generally limited in public transport and urban areas of Duque de Caxias.

Mobility Needs

Newer buildings and some public facilities may have ramps or elevators. Taxis or ride-sharing services may offer more flexible and convenient options for travelers with mobility challenges, giving door-to-door service.

Local Transport Summary

Public Transit Benefits
  • SuperVia trains offer connections to Rio.
  • Google Maps assists with route planning.
  • The Riocard Mais card simplifies payments.
Convenience and Safety
  • Taxis and ride-sharing (Uber, 99) give direct transport.
  • Verify ride-share details for your safety.
  • Car rental gives flexibility, but traffic and parking need attention.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

  • Avoid walking or cycling in isolated, poorly lit, or unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
  • Some informal communities (Favelas) can be dangerous without local advice.
  • Do not venture into unknown residential zones after dark.
  • Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy vehicle traffic.
  • Stick to well-trafficked commercial areas for safety.
  • Ask locals for current safety advice regarding specific areas.
  • Pedestrian infrastructure is not consistently good.
  • Duque de Caxias has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Duque de Caxias generally lacks specialized tourist transportation options. Accessibility needs careful planning.

Not Applicable Transport

  • Tour Buses: Not available for Duque de Caxias as a tourist destination. These operate in Rio de Janeiro City.
  • Boat Taxis/Water Transport: Not applicable to Duque de Caxias (inland).
  • Cable Cars/Funiculars: Not applicable to Duque de Caxias.
  • Unique Local Transport: No unique local transport like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Mobility Needs

  • Limited Infrastructure: Accessibility infrastructure is generally limited in public transport and urban areas of Duque de Caxias.
  • Newer Facilities: Newer buildings and some public facilities may have ramps or elevators.
  • Flexible Options: Taxis or ride-sharing services may offer more flexible and convenient options for travelers with mobility challenges, giving door-to-door service.
  • Planning: Travelers with mobility needs plan routes and accommodations carefully.

Public Transport

Generally limited accessibility, especially with older infrastructure.

Taxis/Ride-Shares

Often more adaptable for travelers with mobility needs, offering door-to-door service.

Pre-Trip Planning

Thorough research on routes and accommodation accessibility is advisable.

Mobility & Convenience

Infrastructure Challenges
  • Limited accessibility in public transport and urban areas.
  • Newer facilities may offer ramps or elevators.
  • Older vehicles and stops might lack accessibility features.
Flexible Solutions
  • Taxis or ride-sharing give more flexible options.
  • Door-to-door service often available via these services.
  • Plan routes and accommodations with care for mobility needs.

Transport Takeaways

Public transport, especially SuperVia trains, connects Duque de Caxias to Rio. Google Maps and the Riocard Mais card are recommended for efficiency.

Taxis and ride-sharing (Uber, 99) offer direct trips. Verify details for safety. Car rental gives flexibility but driving in traffic plus parking needs attention.