Using ride-hailing and taxi apps

When using ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 in Brazil, users may be required to provide a local phone number (SIM card) or a valid credit card for verification. Russian-issued credit cards are generally not accepted.

Uber rides from Rio de Janeiro (Galeão) airport to Copacabana cost approximately 72-86 BRL. Be aware that local taxi drivers may discourage Uber use and misinform about pickup locations. The official Uber pickup point is located within the airport premises, about 150 meters from the exit. Payment can be made with international cards (e.g., from Kazakhstan).

Compare the services of Brazilian ride-sharing apps 99 and Uber, considering pricing, availability, and registration requirements (phone number, payment methods). Note: 99 might be cheaper than Uber and can sometimes be used with a Russian phone number and card.

At GRU airport (São Paulo), Uber is significantly cheaper than official airport taxis (Guarucoop). For travelers without a working international credit card, using a virtual bank card or local digital payment methods is recommended. If paying with cash in Uber, change is often issued as a credit balance in the app for future rides. Airport currency exchange services at night in Brazil may be closed or unreliable, so having a digital payment method set up prior to arrival is crucial.

Uber is generally 2-3 times cheaper than traditional city taxis called via hotels in Brazil. The 99 app is also a popular option, sometimes offering lower fares than Uber, but prices should be compared at the time of booking.

Uber drivers in Brazil may engage in fraud by marking cash-paid trips as unpaid in the app, causing double charges for users. Users are advised to be cautious, monitor their payment status immediately after trips, and prefer app-based card payments where possible to avoid this issue.

Users in Brazil are facing difficulties with taxi services like Uber and 99 due to the requirement of a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas). While Uber reportedly requires CPF confirmation, some users claim to have used it without one, possibly needing a non-Russian phone number and a non-Russian bank card. The 99 app is suggested as an alternative, potentially cheaper, but also often requires CPF. Some users managed to set up 99 in the airport upon arrival. Payment options include cash (with potential issues like incorrect change or booking errors) and foreign credit cards. The need for CPF seems to be pervasive, even for building access.

Uber apps downloaded in Russia function globally in Brazil. Existing accounts linked to Russian mobile numbers remain valid; verification codes are typically sent via email. For new accounts, a local SIM is recommended as some data-only eSIMs do not support SMS verification for account setup.

A private transfer from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro can cost around $450. Using ride-hailing services like Uber for a one-way trip between these cities might be significantly cheaper, with estimates around $225.

When traveling between Puerto Iguazu (Argentina) and Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil), consider that Uber availability can be inconsistent, especially at Puerto Iguazu airport. Local "taxi" drivers (bombilas) are often an option and may accept Brazilian Reais. They can also assist with border crossing. Long distances and return trips from the airport can influence driver availability. Cabify is an alternative app that may offer better service in Puerto Iguazu. Having local driver contacts or pre-booked transfers is advisable.

Main taxi services in Brazil are Uber and 99. The application 'Maxim' also operates in the country, though it is less common. For authentication issues in Uber, users should consider using the 99 taxi app as a reliable alternative.

At Guarulhos Airport (GRU) in Sao Paulo, Brazil, taxis and Uber are readily available for transport to the city center. Numerous taxis are typically waiting at the airport exit. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also a convenient option.

Using motorcycle taxis in Brazil offers a faster alternative to cars, especially in traffic. Essential safety tips include securing all valuables in a backpack, removing items from pockets (glasses, phones), and wearing a helmet (bring your own balaclava if preferred). Long hair should be tied back or covered. While faster, riders maintain a brisk pace.

To use cash payments for Uber in Brazil, ensure the application is updated. In some cases, if the app only shows 'Uber Cash' or credit card options, reinstalling the app may be required to trigger the 'Cash' payment selection during the ride creation process.

The 99 ride-sharing app (similar to Uber) may experience installation or registration issues when using a Russian phone number outside of Brazil. Users have reported success by connecting to Wi-Fi upon arrival in Brazil and attempting the registration process there. Once registered, the app functions correctly, and cash payments are accepted.