Getting to Rio de Janeiro: Complete Guide for Tourists

Planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro involves more than choosing a hotel and a beach — getting there logistics can set the tone for the whole experience. Two airports, different transport options, payment methods that aren't always intuitive for visitors: this guide covers everything tourists need to know to arrive in Rio with ease and, especially, to reach Marina da Glória, the boarding point for WeBoat boat trips.

Rio de Janeiro's Two Airports

Rio de Janeiro has two main airports, each with a very different profile and location:

Galeão International Airport (GIG) — Antonio Carlos Jobim

Galeão is Rio's international airport, located on Ilha do Governador. It receives all international flights and most long-distance domestic flights (especially from cities outside the Rio–São Paulo–Belo Horizonte corridor). It's about 40 to 60 km from the city center — which, with Rio traffic, can mean 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the time of day.

International flights from the US, Europe, Argentina, Chile and other destinations all arrive here. If you're coming from outside Brazil, you'll almost certainly land at Galeão.

Santos Dumont Airport (SDU)

Santos Dumont is Rio's regional domestic airport, located in the city center, on the shores of Guanabara Bay. It mainly serves the Rio–São Paulo Air Bridge (Brazil's busiest route), plus flights to Belo Horizonte, Brasília, Florianópolis and other regional destinations.

The big advantage: it's just 15 to 20 minutes from Marina da Glória by Uber. If you're flying from São Paulo or another city with direct flights to SDU, it's the most convenient option for anyone doing a boat trip.

Comparison: Galeão vs. Santos Dumont

Criteria	Galeão (GIG)	Santos Dumont (SDU)
Distance to Center	40–60 km	0 km (Downtown)
Uber to Marina	R$ 60–120 / 45–90 min	R$ 25–40 / 15–20 min
International flights	Yes	No
São Paulo Air Bridge	Some flights	Main hub
Taxi/transfer	Counter on arrival	Easy metro and Uber

Getting from Galeão Airport (GIG) to Marina da Glória

Uber / 99 (Recommended)

The most practical option. Open Uber or 99 right after collecting your luggage. The app works normally in Brazil with an international credit card registered — you don't need Brazilian cash to pay for the ride. Average cost: R$ 60 to R$ 120. Time: 45 to 90 minutes (depending on time and traffic).

Tip: open the app before leaving the arrivals area and wait for your car in the designated rideshare lanes, not in the conventional taxi queue.

Licensed Airport Taxi

There are licensed taxi counters at the arrivals exit. It's a safe, regulated option with set fares (includes a special airport surcharge). Prices are slightly higher than Uber, but no surprises. Cards accepted. Ask for a receipt when boarding.

Executive Bus (Real Bus)

The Real Bus executive coach connects Galeão to several points in the South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema). To reach Marina da Glória, disembark near Aterro do Flamengo and take a short Uber. Cost: R$ 22 to R$ 28. Good option for budget-conscious travelers without heavy luggage.

Metro (budget option)

Galeão has no direct metro connection. The route is: BRT Transcarioca from the airport → metro station (Line 2) → transfer at Central station → Line 1 → Glória station → 10 minutes on foot to the Marina. Total cost: R$ 15 to R$ 20. Estimated time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Only recommended for backpackers without heavy bags.

Getting from Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) to Marina da Glória

Uber / 99 (15 minutes)

From Santos Dumont to Marina da Glória is 15 to 20 minutes by Uber, costing R$ 25 to R$ 40. It's the simplest airport-to-Marina route — one of the reasons why travelers from São Paulo have a logistical advantage on this itinerary.

Metro (5-minute walk to the station)

Carioca metro station is less than 200 meters from SDU, already in the city center. From Carioca station, take Line 1 (orange) toward Botafogo to Glória station. From there, it's a 10 to 12-minute walk along Av. Augusto Severo to the Marina entrance. Total cost: R$ 8 to R$ 12. Great for light travelers.

Uber Times and Costs from Main Neighborhoods to the Marina

Already checked in and wondering how long it takes on embarkation day? See estimated times from the main tourist neighborhoods:

Origin Neighborhood	Estimated Time	Estimated Uber
Downtown / Lapa	8–12 min	R$ 12–20
Glória / Catete / Flamengo	5–10 min	R$ 8–15
Botafogo / Urca	10–15 min	R$ 15–22
Copacabana	15–25 min	R$ 20–35
Ipanema / Leblon	20–30 min	R$ 25–40
Barra da Tijuca	35–50 min	R$ 40–65

Estimated times without heavy traffic. Arrive at the Marina 20 minutes early before your boat trip departure time.

Payment Methods in Brazil for Foreign Tourists

One of the biggest questions for first-time visitors to Brazil. Here are the most practical options:

• International credit card (Visa / Mastercard): accepted at virtually all tourist establishments, restaurants, hotels and services. WeBoat accepts Visa and Mastercard. American Express has lower acceptance.
• PIX: Brazil's instant payment system. Works 24/7, no fee, with immediate confirmation. For foreign tourists, you need a Brazilian bank account (some fintechs like Nubank allow quick opening) or local assistance. WeBoat accepts PIX.
• PayPal and Zelle: to make things even easier, WeBoat also accepts PayPal and Zelle — great for American tourists who prefer paying in USD without currency exchange.
• Cash in reais (BRL): useful for small purchases, tips and public transport. Exchange available at airports (higher rates) and exchange houses in Downtown and Copacabana (better rates).
• Uber / 99 with international card: register your card in the app before traveling and all rides are billed automatically — no need for cash.

Transport Safety Tips

As in any major city, a few simple precautions make all the difference:

• Only use Uber or 99 through the app — never accept rides from drivers who approach you spontaneously at airports or tourist spots.
• Confirm the plate and driver's name in the app before getting in the car.
• Avoid displaying expensive phones in busy streets. Use them inside the car or in closed spaces.
• Travel with digital document copies — photo of your passport and visa on your phone or email.
• Provide the exact address: "Marina da Glória, Av. Infante Dom Henrique, S/N, Loja 06, Glória" is WeBoat's boarding address.

For a complete guide, read our article on safety for tourists in Rio de Janeiro.

Arriving at Marina da Glória: WeBoat's Boarding Point

All logistics converge on one point: Marina da Glória, Av. Infante Dom Henrique, S/N, Loja 06. Type this address into Uber or Google Maps and it takes you right to the Marina entrance.

When you arrive:

• Inform the gate that you have a reservation with WeBoat
• Follow the signs to Loja 06, by the quayside
• The crew will be waiting 30 minutes before departure
• Parking is available at the Marina for those arriving by car (R$ 20–35 for 5-6 hours)

Learn more about how boat trips work and check out our Complete Marina da Glória Guide for all details about the boarding location.

Crew tip: if coming by Uber, set your destination as "Marina da Glória" — the app already has the location registered. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to park or get your group organized before boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions about Getting to Rio

Which airport should I use?

Santos Dumont (SDU) is the most convenient for boat trips — just 15 minutes from Marina da Glória. But international flights arrive at Galeão (GIG), which is farther away (45–90 min). If you can choose, use SDU.

Do I need to exchange currency before arriving?

For Uber and tourist services, no — you pay with an international card in the app. For metro, bus and small purchases, bring some reais. Airport exchange works, but rates are higher. Prefer exchange houses in Downtown or Copacabana.

Does Uber work well in Rio?

Yes, very well. Rio has one of the largest Uber fleets in Brazil. Both Uber and 99 work with international cards and are safe when called through the app. Avoid accepting informal rides.

What payment methods does WeBoat accept?

WeBoat accepts credit card (Visa/Mastercard), PIX, PayPal and Zelle. For American tourists, PayPal and Zelle in USD are especially convenient. Check our FAQ for more details on payment and booking.