Maua Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide
A well-organized pre-trip signifies you start your Mauá adventure feeling calm and prepared.
Break down your preparations into manageable steps.
Check your passport for validity of at least six months beyond your planned departure.
Research and commence your visa application if needed.
Research and book your international flights to São Paulo (GRU) for better prices.
Research and book your main accommodations in Mauá (or São Paulo).
Consult your doctor for vaccinations and prescriptions. Get a doctor's note for medications.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads) covering medical emergencies, cancellation, plus lost bags.
Book any specific tours, domestic flights, or long-distance bus tickets within Brazil.
Make physical and digital copies of all important documents and store them separately.
Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, tours, and transfers.
Pack climate-appropriate clothing, layers, and activity-specific attire.
Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks.
Practice simple Portuguese phrases, and download apps and offline maps.
Fully charge all electronic devices before travel.
Secure elements of your trip in advance.
Ensure your home is secure and affairs are in order prior to your departure.
Gain a solid background on Brazil and Mauá.
Create a physical checklist and tick off each item as you complete it. This visual aid means nothing is forgotten.
The moments immediately after arrival can be disorienting. This checklist guides your first steps in Brazil smoothly.
Clear immigration (passport, visa if needed) and customs (declare goods).
Collect your checked luggage.
Obtain Brazilian Reals from an ATM at the airport. Avoid airport exchange counters.
Consider purchasing a local SIM at the airport or a nearby mall (for CPF registration details).
Contact your accommodation to confirm your arrival or arrange pick-up.
Locate your driver or designated meeting point if you pre-booked an airport transfer.
Follow airport signs to official taxi booths or designated ride-sharing pick-up zones. Confirm details with your app.
Follow signs to the CPTM/Metro station and use your pre-researched route to Mauá.
Once at your accommodation in Mauá, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings.
Find nearby amenities like a supermarket, pharmacy, and the nearest CPTM station or bus stop.
Use your downloaded offline map to get a sense of the neighborhood layout.
This helps with quick navigation and local exploration.
Use an ATM to withdraw a sufficient amount of cash for immediate needs (transport, snacks, small purchases).
Buy bottled water, any required snacks, and other immediate necessities.
Before leaving the airport, have sufficient local currency for your onward journey and initial expenses.
A smooth departure means a positive end to your trip. This checklist guides you through the final steps before leaving Mauá and Brazil.
Brazil does not have a general VAT refund system for tourists.
Pack a small bag with vitals (medications, a different clothes) in your carry-on.
This offers peace of mind in case of unexpected baggage delays.
