Buses in Rio

The buses in Rio de Janeiro are cheap and frequent, they cost 2.50 R$ (2.70 R$ with AC); going to faraway destinations like Barra de Tijuca you have more expensive buses. Find out which bus goes where on Rio Ónibus , (you have to put in a street where the bus actually goes from and to, if you stick to the main streets it works fine). Otherwise asking the driver always works, they are almost without exception helpful.

Functional Chaos
Before you catch a bus make sure you have change ready in your hand, then wave down the bus you want with your arm. Don't despair if the driver doesn't stop; just wait for the next one. There are designated bus stops for certain bus lines (there should be legends at the bus stands but they are not always there), the drivers can get fined for stopping at the wrong one. There are bus passes but unfortunately they are not available for tourists. A bit chaotic, but somehow it works.

At Night
Be careful of going by bus night time (after 9 PM or rather; when there are few people out). Be extra careful when the bus is going from the shopping center Rio Sul past Parque de Flamengo; many robberies occur on that stretch. If you see something suspicious get off in front of Rio Sul and catch the next bus, it may get cheaper in the end to catch a cab night time...


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