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How to Get to Sao Jose Do Rio Preto

How to Get to Sao Jose Do Rio Preto

Sao Jose Do Rio Preto Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Air Travel Details

São José do Rio Preto Airport SJP

Officially named Professor Eribelto Manoel Reino State Airport, SJP serves the urban area with domestic flights. Azul, LATAM, and Gol are the main airlines.

Air Routes

  • Flights are mainly domestic, connecting to major Brazilian hubs.
  • Main connections include São Paulo (GRU, CGH), Campinas (VCP), Belo Horizonte (CNF), and Brasília (BSB).
  • No direct international flights. International travelers connect via major Brazilian hubs. Check flight deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Terminal Facilities

The airport features a small to medium-sized terminal building with standard amenities for travelers.

Services Available

  • Check-in counters, baggage claim, and nice waiting rooms.
  • Cafes and restaurants for dining options.
  • Car rental agencies, a taxi stand, and ride-sharing pick-up points.

Taxi Service

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Fares to the city center typically range from R$ 40-70.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and 99 operate from SJP airport. Designated pick-up points are clearly marked for convenience.

Car Rental

Several major car rental companies, like Localiza, Unidas, Movida, and Hertz, have desks at the airport. Find great deals on DiscoverCars.com.

Flight Scheduling

Flight Availability

  • Flight availability generally remains stable throughout the year.
  • Frequencies might increase during peak holiday periods.
  • Look for increased flights around Brazilian summer and winter breaks from school.
  • Seasonal adjustments occur but overall service holds steady.

Price Considerations

  • Expect higher prices during public holidays and long weekends.
  • Prices also increase during peak seasons like December-February and July.
  • Booking your flights in advance is recommended to secure better rates.
  • Flexibility with travel dates can yield significant savings.

Travel Logistics Summary

Inland City

São José do Rio Preto is an inland city within Brazil. You will not encounter international border crossings when traveling directly to or from the city.

Rail Connections

Brazil’s rail network mainly serves cargo transport. No regular long-distance passenger train services directly connect São José do Rio Preto for tourism purposes.

Water Transport

Sea or river transportation is not applicable for intercity travel or tourist access to São José do Rio Preto, as it lacks major navigable rivers for such services.

Land Journeys

Rodoviária de SJRP

São José do Rio Preto features a central bus terminal (Terminal Rodoviário Governador Laudo Natel) offering extensive connections to various cities.

Popular Routes

  • São Paulo (capital) - approximately 6-7 hours.
  • Ribeirão Preto - approximately 2-3 hours.
  • Campinas - approximately 4-5 hours.

Service Options

Main national bus companies serve SJRP, providing a range of comfort levels for travelers.

Travel Classes

  • Expresso Itamarati, Viação Cometa, Viação Garcia, and Reunidas Paulista.
  • Options range from conventional to executive and semi-sleeper or full-sleeper services.
  • These services offer varying levels of comfort and amenities.

Renting a Vehicle

Rental services are available at the airport and in the city center. Booking in advance is recommended.

Driver Needs

  • You need a valid driver's license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended and legally required for non-Portuguese licenses.
  • A major credit card in the driver'the name is needed for the rental deposit.

Road Conditions & Safety

Driving in Brazil possesses distinct challenges due to aggressive drivers and varied the condition of the roads. Road signage is in Portuguese.

Road Notes

  • Main highways connecting to São José do Rio Preto are generally well-maintained.
  • Secondary roads can vary in quality; signage is in Portuguese.
  • Avoid driving at night on less-traveled roads due to potential safety risks and poor visibility.

Important Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Headlights must remain on at all times when operating a vehicle on highways.
  • Brazil enforces strict laws against drunk driving (Lei Seca).
  • Cell phone use while driving is prohibited.
  • Be cautious of aggressive drivers.

Departure Planning

Airport Check-out

No specific exit fees are charged for departing Brazil by air for tourists; these costs are typically included in your airfare.

Recommended Arrival

  • Arrive at SJP airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your domestic flight.
  • This allows ample time for check-in procedures.
  • Sufficient time for security screening.

Terminal Check-out

No specific exit fees are charged on bus tickets; these costs are typically included in your bus fare.

Recommended Arrival

  • Arrive at the Rodoviária (bus terminal) at least 30 minutes before the bus you are taking departure.
  • This allows time for ticket validation.
  • Locate your departure platform comfortably.

SJP Airport

Offers check-in, security screening areas, comfortable waiting areas, and limited dining options.

Bus Terminal

Provides waiting areas, restrooms, small shops, snack stands, and ticket offices for your convenience.

General Info

Both facilities maintain basic amenities to ensure traveler comfort during departure.

Travel Tips

On-site Parking

São José do Rio Preto Airport (SJP) has on-site parking facilities available for private vehicles.

Parking Details

  • Convenient for private vehicle drop-offs and pick-ups.
  • Suitable for short-term and long-term parking needs.
  • Check local airport signs for hourly and daily rates.

Limited Public Bus Access

Public bus services from the airport to specific points in the city are limited, making other options more practical.

Bus Service Note

  • This option is less convenient for travelers with luggage.
  • Consider taxis or ride-sharing services for direct transfers.
  • Check local routes for any available connections if you prefer public transport.

Brazilian Driving Laws

Road Side

Drive on the right side of the road, always adhering to local traffic flow.

Mandatory Restraints

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, front and back.

Daytime Requirement

Headlights must remain on at all times when you are driving on federal highways, even during the day.

Seamless Travel

Plan your airport transfers or long-distance bus journeys in advance for peace of mind. Check the details for your chosen method of transport to avoid last-minute rush.