Chapter 10 — Airport to Hotel · Rio de Janeiro Guide
Rio Airport to Hotel: Getting In Safely from GIG or SDU
Rio is served by Galeão International Airport (GIG), about 20 km from the beachfront neighborhoods, and Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), a smaller domestic-focused airport right in the city center.
Order your Uber from inside the arrivals hall, not from a driver approaching you outside — unlicensed drivers sometimes wait at exits offering rides.
💡 Guide Tip
Order your Uber from inside the arrivals hall, not from a driver approaching you outside — unlicensed drivers sometimes wait at exits offering rides. If you land late at night, a pre-booked hotel transfer removes any uncertainty.
In the full guide, this chapter also covers:
- Full comparison of 4 ways to get from Galeão (GIG) to Zona Sul, with advantage and best-for each
- What to do specifically for late-night arrivals
The full guide compares all 4 airport transfer options side by side, including price expectations.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best way to get from Rio's airport to my hotel?
Uber or 99, ordered from inside the arrivals hall, is the recommended default. For late-night arrivals, a pre-booked hotel transfer removes any uncertainty.