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Foreign Currency and Exchange in Brazil: what actually matters to know

Short answer
Currency exchange at GRU airport is limited and offers poor rates, so it is best to bring cash or use card payments, which are widely accepted. When taking a taxi, book at the official kiosk and have your destination address printed in Portuguese for the driver.

From real experience

At São Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU), there are generally no currency exchange offices in the sterile transit zone.
An exchange office is located after passport control and before baggage claim, but it offers a very unfavorable exchange rate. It operates at night. Taxis are available outside the terminal, to the right, at a glass kiosk. Payment can be made in cash or by card; the fare remains the same. Taxis are spacious. For example, a trip to Vila Mariana costs approximately 230 BRL. It is advisable to have the destination address printed in Portuguese for the driver.
✓ 1 report from chats
It is generally not possible to withdraw USD from foreign (e.g., Freedom Bank Kazakhstan) cards in Brazilian ATMs in São Paulo or Rio.
Most Brazilian banks do not offer USD accounts for individuals. For USD cash, it's advised to bring it or purchase from private individuals. Withdrawing BRL (reals) from ATMs is possible, but not all ATMs support it. Card payments with Freedom Bank are generally accepted.
✓ 1 report from chats
Experience with Moroccan Airlines flight from Sao Paulo to St.
Petersburg. Baggage was opened and searched upon arrival, though no items were reported missing. Passengers generally find flights via Casablanca more comfortable than Ethiopian Airlines, primarily due to shorter flight times. Food is described as not universally appealing, with a positive mention of 'tvorog' (quark/cottage cheese). EUR is accepted at Casablanca airport for those without local currency.
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Inquire about the acceptance of US dollars with stamps in Brazil.
It is advisable to confirm with local businesses or banks regarding their policy on accepting such currency.
✓ 1 report from chats

Related topics

• Obtaining and Using a CPF 💰 Banking for Tourists and Non-Residents 🛂 Extending Tourist Visa-Free Stays 💼 Getting a Tax ID (CPF) 🛂 Entry Documentation 🎟 Return Ticket Requirements

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