Sao Paulo Airport: Is It Safe To Travel?

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport is the main international airport in South America's largest city. It is the gateway to Brazil for many international flights. The airport has been described as chaotic, with disorganised lanes, leaky faucets, dirty bathrooms, inefficient security lines, and long distances between terminals. However, it has also been described as safe by travellers. Street crime in Brazil is common, and travellers should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect their belongings. It is recommended to use only prepaid or official taxis and to avoid going out alone at night. Overall, while the airport itself may have some issues, travellers can take certain measures to ensure their safety when visiting São Paulo.

Transport to and from the airport

Transport to and from São Paulo Airport

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport is a large, well-organised hub with a range of transport options to get you to and from your destination.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available at the airport. You can book a taxi in advance or get one from the line of taxis waiting outside the airport. Taxi2Airport is one such service that offers transfers to and from the airport. They offer a range of vehicles, from sedans and limousines to minibuses and buses for larger groups. Suntransfers is another company that provides a similar service, with a range of options to suit every budget.

Private Transfer

For a more luxurious experience, you can book a private transfer service like Blacklane. They offer a range of high-end vehicles, including Mercedes, BMW, and Audi models, as well as chauffeur services.

Shuttle

Shuttle services are also available, providing an affordable and convenient option for travellers. These can be booked in advance or found at the airport.

Public Transport

The airport also has a new rail station, offering improved connections to downtown São Paulo.

Driving

If you prefer to drive yourself, there are options for car rentals at the airport. However, it is not recommended to drive long distances in Brazil if you are unfamiliar with the area, as it may be unsafe.

Safety Considerations

When using transport services, it is important to be cautious of potential scams, especially in São Paulo, where tourists are common. Be wary of taxi and Uber drivers calling for you at the airport exit. It is safer to book your ride in advance or use one of the official kiosks inside the airport. Additionally, street crime is common in Brazil, so stay vigilant and keep your valuables secure.

Language Barrier

It is worth noting that most people you encounter at the airport will likely speak Portuguese. Learning a few simple phrases and recognising key words like "information" and "restrooms" can be helpful.

Safety at the airport

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport is a 3-star airport for facilities, comfort, cleanliness, shopping, food and beverages, staff service, and security/immigration. However, it is a busy airport with a lot of international flights, so it is important to give yourself ample time to get through security and other procedures.

Getting to the Airport

To get to the airport from the city, it is recommended to use a taxi or Uber. There is a regular shuttle service between the two airports, which takes about an hour. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, as street crime in Brazil is common, and tourists are often targeted.

At the Airport

The airport does not have elevators, only stairs and escalators, so this may be difficult for people with heavy luggage or special needs. The terminals are very far away from each other, and there is limited signage, which can make it difficult to navigate. Most staff only speak Portuguese, and the food options are limited, with some vendors refusing to serve those who don't speak Portuguese.

Safety Considerations

It is important to stay with your travelling partner and be aware of your belongings at all times, as mugging and theft are common at the airport. Carry cash, credit cards, and passports in a secure money belt or neck wallet.

Leaving the Airport

When leaving the airport, it is recommended to use a pre-paid or official taxi service, and to write down the name and address of your hotel to give to the driver. The airport shuttle service is also a safe option, and costs R$54.

Safety for single female travellers

• Allow plenty of time: The airport is a large, busy hub, serving many international flights. Make sure to arrive at least three hours before your flight to allow enough time to get through security and other procedures.
• Know which airport you need: São Paulo has two airports. Guarulhos is the international airport, while Congonhas is the domestic airport. Make sure you double-check which airport you need to avoid ending up at the wrong one.
• Language barrier: Most people you will encounter at the airport will speak Portuguese. Learning some basic phrases and recognising key words like "information" and "restrooms" can be helpful.
• Stay vigilant: Street crime and mugging are common in Brazil, including at the airport. Stay with your travel partner if you have one, and keep your cash, credit cards, and passport secure, preferably in a neck wallet or money belt.
• Use official transport: It is recommended to use official airport taxis or pre-paid taxi services to get to and from the airport. Write down the name and address of your hotel to give to the driver.
• Be aware of cultural differences: Brazilians are generally protective of women, especially in service areas. However, some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport, so always keep it in a safe place.
• Keep your belongings close: As with any travel, always keep your luggage, purse, and other belongings close to you and never leave them unattended.
• Stay in well-lit, populated areas: Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and stay in areas with other people, including other tourists.
• Use licensed transport and accommodation: Only use licensed taxis or ride-shares booked through apps, and choose hotels that offer free transfers.
• Follow local advice: Brazilians tend to have a natural lack of trust in their government agencies, so follow their lead and leave your expensive electronics at home.

Avoiding theft and scams

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport is the main airport serving the São Paulo region, and it can be a chaotic and disorganised place. It is important to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid theft and scams when travelling through this airport. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Stay with your travelling partner if you have one, and be extra vigilant if travelling alone.
• Keep your valuables, such as cash, credit cards and passports, secure and out of sight. Consider using a neck wallet or money belt.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when dealing with luggage or navigating the airport.
• Only use official or pre-paid taxis, and write down your hotel's name and address to give to the driver.
• If using ridesharing apps like Uber, ensure the vehicle's plate number and driver's name match what is shown in the app.
• Avoid isolated locations within the airport, and stick to well-lit and busy areas.
• Keep your luggage, food and drinks attended at all times.
• Be cautious when using ATMs or making card transactions, and always shield your PIN.
• Be wary of anyone offering unsolicited help or trying to distract you, as this could be a scam.
• Be extra vigilant during festivals like Carnival, when crime rates tend to increase.
• Avoid wearing or displaying valuable items, jewellery or large amounts of cash.
• Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to help you navigate the airport and understand signs.
• Be prepared for the airport's lack of elevators by packing light and ensuring you can manage your luggage on stairs.
• Keep a close eye on your belongings during security checks and boarding procedures.
• If you encounter issues, seek assistance from Tourist Police, who speak English and are available at the São Paulo airport.

Amenities and services at the airport

São Paulo Airport, also known as São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), is the largest airport in Brazil and the main hub for international travel in South America. It offers a wide range of amenities and services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for its over 40 million yearly passengers.

Transportation

There are several ways to get to and from the airport. The best way is by taxi or private car, which will get you to downtown São Paulo in about 30 minutes. There are also numerous bus services available, but these can be crowded and unreliable. If you're driving, be sure to leave plenty of time for traffic congestion. A train service is also available from the airport to the city.

Dining and Shopping

GRU offers a wide variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. For a quick bite, there's McDonald's or Subway in Terminal 3. Those looking for a sit-down meal can try Outback Steakhouse in Terminal 3 or Viena in Terminal 2. Casa do Pão de Queijo, a popular Brazilian bakery chain, has locations in all three terminals for those wanting a taste of Brazil.

When it comes to shopping, Terminal 3 boasts the most options, ranging from luxury brands like Burberry and Michael Kors to more affordable choices like Havaianas and Sunglass Hut. Terminal 2 also has some shopping options, including Duty-Free Americas and Victoria's Secret.

Internet and Communication

Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport for almost an hour. Additionally, there is an information desk and interactive airport maps to help you navigate and find your gate, restaurants, and shops.

Financial Services

ATMs are available throughout the airport, and currency exchange booths can be found in Terminals 2 and 3.

Luggage and Storage

GRU provides luggage storage services in Terminals 2 and 3.

Medical Services

Medical services are available at Terminal 3 Departures.

Postal Services

São Paulo Airport has its own post office, located at Terminal 2, Mezzanine, check-in C.

Relaxation and Comfort

The airport offers a variety of lounges with premium food, drinks, snacks, showers, and Wi-Fi. Some of these lounges include the W Lounge Guarulhos, Plaza Premium Lounge, The Centurion Lounge, and the Urban Cowork Airport Lounge.

Other Services

Other services available at the airport include a lost and found office, baby care facilities, duty-free stores, a pharmacy, lockers, and a hairdresser service.

Frequently asked questions