Airport Taxi Services (GRU, GIG, CGH) in Brazil: real experience from chats
Short answer
At Brazilian airports like GRU and GIG, use ride-hailing apps like Uber, but be aware of potential issues with local phone verification or weak Wi-Fi at pickup points. Official airport taxis provide a reliable alternative, though they are generally more expensive than app-based services.
From real experience
To get a taxi from GRU to São Paulo city center, use ride-hailing apps like Uber (download in advance to avoid CAPTCHA issues).
Aggregator services cost around 3500 RUR. Airport currency exchange rates are poor (e.g., 3.6 BRL/USD). Taxi drivers might offer better informal rates (e.g., 4.7-5.0 BRL/USD). The best exchange rates (5.1+ BRL/USD) are typically found in the city during weekdays.
✓ 1 report from chats
Travelers arriving at Sao Paulo's Guarulhos Airport (GRU) may face difficulties with local taxi apps like Uber and Indrive due to CPF (Brazilian tax ID) requirements.
The 99 app can also log users out when abroad. A potential workaround is using a third-party transfer service that accepts UnionPay, Russian cards, and USD cash.
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At Rio Galeão Airport (GIG), the main challenge when trying to book an Uber or find a taxi is that the Wi-Fi signal might be weak or unavailable at the designated pick-up points.
Travelers should be aware of this potential issue and plan accordingly, e.g., by having mobile data or looking for Wi-Fi hotspots.
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Galeao International Airport (GIG) provides Wi-Fi in the arrival area.
Travelers can connect to the airport network to access ride-sharing apps like Uber without a local SIM card, although connection speeds may be slow.
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Both Guarulhos (GRU) and Congonhas (CGH) airports in São Paulo provide reliable free Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to easily order Uber upon arrival.
Both airports feature designated Uber pickup points with clear signage.
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At Guarulhos Airport (GRU) in Brazil, official blue and white taxis are available at a designated counter.
Payment can be made by card or cash directly at the counter. These taxis are generally more expensive than Uber but offer a convenient alternative.