Rio De Janeiro Travel Guide

Getting Around Rio De Janeiro

Although a large and sprawling city, the neighbourhoods most frequented by visitors are easy to access using a combination of Rio''s public transport, and one''s own feet.

The public transport system in Rio is cheap and efficient, and most places can be reached by metro or bus. By far the quickest and easiest way to get around is by the efficient metro, but there are limits to its coverage of the city with only two lines.

Walking around is generally safe as long as there are crowds of people, although walking in the centre of the city is not recommended after the shops close and their security guards go home.

The most inexpensive form of transport is the local buses, which travel all over the city as fast as the traffic will allow. Unfortunately, they are often badly driven, crowded, and the scene of much petty theft, especially during rush hours when the crowded conditions are ideal for pickpockets. Special care should be taken on buses known to be used by tourists, such as those to the Sugar Loaf. Drivers frequently have little to no change, so don''t try to use money in large denominations.

Public transport stops between 11pm and midnight, with some buses operating twenty-four hours, but it is safer to hire a taxi late at night. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, charging a lower rate after 6pm (except Sundays, holidays, and in December). Radiotaxi can be ordered and are said to be safer and more reliable, usually with air-conditioning, but they are thirty percent more expensive than regular taxis. Drivers may add a surcharge for extra luggage.

Driving in Rio is not recommended for overseas visitors do to the chaotic nature of the traffic. To hire a car, though, you''ll need an international driver''s license, and insurance.