Aracaju Sergipe, Brazil Travel Guide
These apps present bus schedules, routes, and estimated arrival times. Official routes may also be found on the SMTT (Superintendência Municipal de Transportes e Trânsito) website, though often in Portuguese. The ticketing system for buses is straightforward. You typically pay a single fare in cash directly to the bus collector (Cobrador) or the driver upon boarding.
The current fare (as of late 2023/early 2024) is approximately R$4.50-R$5.00 for each ride. A rechargeable smart card system called "Cartão Mais Aracaju" is available for frequent users, offering slight discounts or convenience. It is not essential for tourists doing limited bus travel.
Maintain awareness of your belongings, especially on crowded buses, to deter pickpocketing.
Use apps like Moovit or Waze for real-time bus tracking and route suggestions.
Accessibility of the public bus system is limited; some newer buses provide ramps.
Moovit or A Navigation app for live tracking.
Small change for quick fare payment.
Ask hotel staff for route suggestions.
Watch personal belongings on crowded buses.
Licensed taxis in Aracaju are typically white with a red stripe and display a visible meter. You can hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., at the airport, bus terminal, shopping malls, or Orla de Atalaia), or book them via phone apps. Always ensure the meter is on, or agree on a fare beforehand for longer trips, especially if the meter is not used. Ride-sharing apps offer a popular and convenient alternative. Uber and 99 (a widely used Brazilian app) are reliable and operate extensively in Aracaju.
R$15-R$30
R$40-R$70
Agree on fare if meter not used
If you plan extensive exploration beyond Aracaju's main tourist areas, consider renting a car. Car rental procedures involve being at least 21 years old (sometimes 25 for certain vehicle categories). You must have a valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). A major credit card in the driver's name is required for the deposit. Major companies like Localiza, Unidas, and Movida operate at Aracaju Airport and in the city. Purchasing comprehensive insurance is highly advisable. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists in Aracaju and generally not suggested due to traffic conditions and safety concerns. Availability may be limited.
Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. No phone use while driving.
Speed limits enforced.
City roads generally good. Main highways reasonable. Secondary roads vary.
Watch for potholes.
Street parking available but challenging in busy areas. Paid options in malls/hotels.
Informal attendants may ask for fees.
Local tour operators in Aracaju offer tours of the city in air-conditioned buses or vans. These tours often feature attractions and sometimes extend to excursions to nearby towns. However, Aracaju does not include a formal hop-on-hop-off bus service like more substantial international cities. Boat trips are a well-liked form of specialized transportation for excursions. These trips explore mangrove areas, the Vaza-Barris River, or scenic spots like the Foz do Rio São Francisco (mouth of the São Francisco River). These are typically organized tours and not public transport. A local ferry connects Aracaju to Barra dos Coqueiros (Ilha de Santa Luzia), sharing local water transportation.
Explore main attractions in comfort. Ask local operators for schedules and routes.
Enjoy scenic trips through mangroves and to the mouth of the São Francisco River.
A local ferry connects to Barra dos Coqueiros for quieter beaches and island access.
For those requiring significant mobility assistance, exclusive tours or adapted taxis may be necessary. Always inquire directly with service providers about their accessibility options when making arrangements.
