Getting Around Buzios. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Systems

Búzios does not operate a metro or tram system. Shared vans, locally known as "vans" or "kombis," serve as the main mode of public transportation within the town. These mini-vans represent the backbone of local public transport, providing a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel.

They operate on specific routes, connecting various neighborhoods and beaches across the peninsula, including popular spots like Geribá, João Fernandes, and Rasa. Vans display their destination on the front window.

Van Service Details

Fares are fixed and low, typically R$3 to R$5 per ride. Pay cash directly to the driver or fare collector upon boarding. Have small bills ready.
Vans operate frequently throughout the day, starting early morning and running until late evening, often around midnight or later during high season. Frequency is high.
Vans are generally not wheelchair accessible. Búzios' hilly terrain and cobblestone streets pose challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Wave down a passing van from the side of the road. Tell the driver your destination upon boarding or as you approach your stop. Vans stop anywhere along their route.

Hail a Van

Wave down a passing van from the side of the road. They are easily identifiable and frequent on main routes.

Know Your Stop

Tell the driver your destination upon boarding or as you approach your stop. Vans understand common beach or neighborhood names.

Cash Ready

Always have small bills or exact change ready to ensure a quick and smooth transaction.

Taxi and App Services

Licensed Taxis

Taxis are generally white with a red license plate and a 'TAXI' sign. Hail on street or find at designated stands.
Fares are generally higher than vans. Confirm price with driver before starting, especially for longer distances.
Payment is usually cash; some taxis may accept cards. Clarify payment options upfront.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber is widely available in Búzios and often offers more competitive prices than traditional taxis.
99 (99Pop) is another popular ride-sharing app in Brazil, also available in Búzios.
Always verify driver's name, car model, and license plate match the app information before entering the vehicle.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major international rental companies (e.g., Hertz, Avis) have branches in Rio. Local agencies exist in Búzios.

Requirements

Valid national driver's license (IDP highly recommended), credit card for deposit, typically 21 or 25+ years old.

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists; require motorcycle license. Roads can be challenging on two wheels.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from various shops. No formal sharing programs like in larger cities.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Beyond common transport, Búzios has unique ways to experience its beauty. Buggies are a popular and iconic way to explore the beaches, offering open-air adventure.

Buggy Exploration

Buggies are abundant for rent, especially around Rua das Pedras. You need a valid driver's license.
Some buggies are older and may not have modern safety features. Drive carefully, especially on busy roads.
Confirm fuel policy and rental terms before driving.
Parking in Búzios can be challenging and expensive in high season.

Driving Rules & Roads

Drive on the right side of the road. Observe posted speed limits.
Main roads are paved; smaller roads to beaches can be unpaved or cobblestone.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Drunk driving laws are strict, with zero tolerance.
Avoid driving at night on unlit rural roads.

Walking & Cycling

Rua das Pedras is entirely pedestrian-friendly, forming the heart of Búzios' nightlife and dining.
Orla Bardot offers a scenic waterfront promenade, ideal for leisurely walks with ocean views.
Many central beaches are accessible via pleasant walking paths, making beach hopping enjoyable.

Local guides offer walking tours on Búzios' history and architecture. Self-guided walks are easy with a map.
Búzios does not have dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists share roads with vehicles. Exercise caution.
Generally safe for walking and cycling during the day. Avoid very isolated or unlit areas at night.

Unique Local Transport

Tour Buses

No formal hop-on-hop-off services. Tour operators offer 'city tours' or 'beach tours' by van/small bus to various points.

Boat Taxis

Small boats, 'táxis aquáticos,' operate between some central beaches (e.g., Ossos to Azeda/Azedinha), offering convenient beach hopping.

Schooner Tours

Popular boat tours visit multiple beaches and islands around the peninsula, allowing for swimming and snorkeling stops from the pier at Praia do Canto or Praia da Armação.

Mobility Considerations

Búzios has challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Its hilly terrain and cobblestone streets require careful navigation.

Accessibility Overview

Vans are generally not wheelchair accessible.
Many areas lack ramps or smooth pathways, making independent movement difficult for those using wheelchairs.
The town's terrain poses difficulties.
Some newer hotels may offer accessible rooms, but this is not universal.

Planning for Mobility

Plan your movements carefully if you have mobility needs.
Confirm accessibility with accommodations and tour operators beforehand.
Consider staying in flatter areas or closer to accessible points.
Assistance may be needed for certain areas.

Transport Safety

Taxi Safety

Use licensed taxis. If hailing one on the street, ensure it appears legitimate. Consider asking your hotel to call a trusted taxi.

Pre-booking advised.

Ride-Share Safety

Generally safe. Always verify driver's name, car model, and license plate match app info before entering the vehicle.

Share trip details.

Driving Safety

Drive carefully with rentals, especially buggies. Be aware of local driving habits and road conditions. Avoid night driving on unlit roads.

Daylight arrival preferred.

Rental & Road Awareness

Buggy Rentals

Buggies are popular for exploring beaches.
A valid driver's license is necessary for rental.
Some older buggies may lack modern safety features.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Observe posted speed limits.
Drunk driving laws are strict, with zero tolerance.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Safety Zones

Generally, Búzios is safe for walking and cycling during the day.
Avoid walking alone in very isolated or unlit areas at night.
Stick to well-trafficked and lit areas after dark.
Do not display expensive items openly.

Búzios does not have dedicated bicycle lanes.
Cyclists share roads with vehicles; exercise caution.
Hilly terrain can challenge cyclists; good physical condition advised.
Consider bike rentals for shorter, flat explorations.

Getting Around Tip

Embrace the local vans for cost-effective travel between beaches. For unique beach-hopping, consider boat taxis.

Buggies offer a fun way to discover hidden spots, but drive with care.

Getting Around Buzios