Arriving in Brazil

Brazil is well connected to major international destinations through a wide network of airports. The main gateways into the country include Rio de Janeiro’s Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, commonly known as Galeão (GIG), São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), and Campinas–Viracopos International Airport (VCP). Both São Paulo and Campinas offer multiple daily flights to and from Rio de Janeiro.

Airports in Rio de Janeiro and Transportation to the Convention Centre and Hotels

Galeão International Airport (GIG) is located approximately 38 km from the Windsor Convention & Expo Center via the expressway. Depending on traffic conditions and route selection, transfer times typically range from 35 to 70 minutes.

Map
Image Source: Google Maps

Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) in Rio de Janeiro operates exclusively domestic flights, serving destinations within approximately 500 km of the city. Its prime location in downtown Rio makes it a convenient option for travelers. Transfer times to the convention center typically range from 35 to 70 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For travelers arriving in Brazil via São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), connecting to Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) may be more convenient than flying into Galeão Airport (GIG). SDU is known for offering breathtaking views during both takeoff and landing.

However, if you land at GRU and choose to connect to SDU, be sure not to book a connecting flight departing from Congonhas Airport (CGH), located in downtown São Paulo. Doing so would require traveling between GRU and CGH by bus or car, a journey that can be lengthy due to heavy traffic. This situation is similar to arriving at New York’s JFK Airport and then needing to transfer to LaGuardia Airport for your next flight.

Map
Image Source: Google Maps

Official yellow taxis and Uber are widely available and reliable transportation options in Rio de Janeiro. Dedicated taxi services also operate at the airport. Public transportation is available throughout the city, though its efficiency varies by area. Note that there are no metro or train lines directly connecting Galeão Airport to the rest of the city. In contrast, Santos Dumont Airport offers convenient access to both the subway and commuter rail via a short ride on the light rail (VLT).

A new multimodal transportation hub, the Kindness Terminal (“Terminal Gentileza”), was recently inaugurated in downtown Rio. An express bus line now links Rio de Janeiro International Airport to this terminal, running every 20 minutes in both directions. The terminal is integrated with the VLT system, providing seamless connections to Santos Dumont Airport, major subway stations, and popular attractions such as the Museum of Tomorrow, the Rio Aquarium, and the Rio Museum of Art. Although this route offers scenic views and easy access to cultural sites, it may not be the fastest option for airport transfers.

Recommended Transfer options

Option 1: Booked Transfers (Recommended)
  • Organized with the partner Travel Agency Follow Up Tours and Events
  • Prices are valid for the conference and correspond to one way transfer Airport to Hotel or Hotel to Airport.

Fixed Rates for the ICSM 2026 Congress:

  • Sedan: BRL 375.00
    Note: up to 3 people with small luggage. If large luggage: 2 people per car.
  • Van: BRL 1,200.00
    Note: up to 9 people with small luggage. If large luggage: max 8 people per van.

To book your transfer with the Official Travel Agency of ICSM 2026 (Follow Up):
https://www.net-expert.com/followuptour/Evento/icsm2026

Note: If you have any question or need any assistance, please contact cristianecherulli@followuptour.com.br
Or by WhatsApp: +55 21 99803-4854

Option 2: Regular Official Taxi

Official Airport Taxi – yellow taxi (Recommended). Up to 3 people, depending on the luggage size:

  • Estimated cost of the ride (GIG-Convention Center): ~USD 32.
  • Estimated cost of the ride (SDU-Convention Center): ~USD 26.

Several official taxicab booths are also located in the same area. Always prefer the pre-paid fares. You may choose between the Yellow Cab or one of the Special Taxi companies. Credit cards are accepted.

If you are familiar with Brazil and Rio, you may exit the arrival room and pick a taxi at the taxi waiting line (just outside) and pay the ride marked on the taximeter (counter). Just be sure to pick an official Yellow Airport Taxi.

Important: No tips are needed for Uber and Taxi in Rio de Janeiro. If you wish to give a tip it is never more than 10%. On the other hand, taxis are allowed to charge a fixed value per each luggage volume. The value is added to the taximeter (counter) value.

Option 3: Uber (only Black is recommended)

Estimated cost of the ride: USD 25 – 34

  • values depending on the car category and traffic conditions;
  • up to 3 people, depending on the size of luggage pieces.

Uber boarding points are well signed at and outside the GIG arrival rooms. Follow the instructions.