Getting from Rio’s airports to your hotel is straightforward and reliable. The two smartest options are private transfers (my preferred choice) and shared shuttles. Private transfers deliver you directly to your destination – perfect after a long flight when you just want to get there. Shared shuttles cost less but make multiple stops, accommodating up to 20 passengers.
I particularly love the private transfer services from both Galeão and Santos Dumont airports. The drivers are consistently punctual, speak basic English, and help with luggage. Plus, they track flight delays and adjust pickup times accordingly.
Let’s look at my recommended airport transfer services in Rio.
Key Points
- Private transfers from airports to hotels or cruise terminals are highly rated, with services offering door-to-door service, sightseeing tours, and accommodating up to 4 passengers.
- Shared transfer services provide a budget-friendly option, with prices starting at $19 per person and accommodating up to 20 travelers, although some report issues with driver no-shows.
- Most transfer services offer flexible booking and cancellation policies, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reschedule.
- Drivers are generally professional, fluent in multiple languages, and knowledgeable about local routes, with services including flight monitoring and accessibility options.
- Overall, private transfer services tend to receive higher ratings than shared options, with travelers praising punctuality and driver professionalism.
Private Transfer GIG International Airport to or From Rio De Janeiro
Departing from or arriving at Rio de Janeiro’s Galeao International Airport (GIG), travelers can conveniently arrange a private transfer to their desired destination within the city.
This service is rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 83 reviews and has earned a Badge of Excellence. Priced at $50.00 per group (up to 4 travelers), the service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can be picked up or dropped off at various locations, including airports, South zone hotels, the cruise port, and downtown. Accessible options like stroller access and service animals are available.
While most travelers report positive experiences, some have mentioned occasional delays and communication issues.
Read our full review: Private Transfer GIG International Airport to or From Rio De Janeiro Review
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Galeão International Airport Transfer
Arranged through the reputable transfer service DotTransfers, travelers can secure reliable private transportation from Galeão International Airport to their desired destination within Rio de Janeiro.
The airport transfer service costs $65.00 per group of up to 3 people. Customers can book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Professional drivers fluent in Portuguese and English provide safe and knowledgeable transportation, meeting travelers with a sign displaying their name.
Additional services include flight monitoring, waiting time, and 24/7 support.
Based on a limited number of reviews, the overall rating is 3 out of 5, with positive experiences reported.
Read our full review: Galeão International Airport Transfer Review
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For travelers arriving at either Santos Dumont Airport or Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, a one-way shared transfer service provides a budget-friendly option to reach their hotels.
With prices starting from $19 per person, this shared transfer service accommodates up to 20 travelers and includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, handling of one medium bag and one handbag per person, and gratuities.
While the service has received mixed reviews, with some customers praising the prompt and professional service and others reporting issues like no-show drivers, it remains a convenient choice for those seeking an affordable airport-to-hotel transfer in Rio.
Read our full review: One Way Shared Transfer From Airport to Hotels in Rio De Janeiro Review
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Rio De Janeiro: One-Way Private Transfer From Airport
A one-way private transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Rio de Janeiro offers a convenient and reliable option for travelers.
Starting at $36 per group (up to 3 passengers), this service takes approximately 1 hour. Drivers speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English, and you can cancel for a full refund if done 24 hours in advance.
To book, provide your details at least 4 hours before arrival, and you’ll receive the driver’s contact and meeting point 48 and 24 hours prior, respectively.
Travelers can bring 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on, with the driver waiting up to 60 minutes at the airport.
With an overall rating of 3.8/5, this transfer service provides a smooth, punctual, and organized experience.
Read our full review: Rio De Janeiro: One-Way Private Transfer From Airport Review
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Private Transfer From SDU Airport to Zona Sul
Travelers seeking a convenient and direct transfer from SDU Airport to Zona Sul in Rio de Janeiro can book this private transfer service.
It’s available 365 days a year, with pickup and drop-off points agreed upon in advance. The service operates from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM on most days, ensuring flexibility.
Customers can confirm their booking within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The service is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 4 reviews, this transfer service provides a professional, clean, and comfortable experience.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From SDU Airport to Zona Sul Review
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Private Transfer: Airport to Cruise Terminal With Sightseeing
This private transfer service conveniently connects Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG) or Santos Dumond (SDU) with the city’s Cruise Terminal Pier Mauá.
Travelers can choose to upgrade their transfer for a 1-hour panoramic sightseeing tour of Rio. The service includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a courteous driver.
Pickup and drop-off points can be selected, and the local provider should be contacted to confirm the pickup time. Each traveler is allowed one medium suitcase and one carry-on, and the service isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Prices start at €48.42 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Reviews praise the driver’s professionalism and tour satisfaction, though some issues with flight cancellations have been noted.
Read our full review: Private Transfer: Airport to Cruise Terminal With Sightseeing Review
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GIG Airport Transfer X Rio De Janeiro Hotels
For travelers seeking a convenient and reliable transfer from Galeão International Airport (GIG) to their Rio de Janeiro hotel, the GIG Airport Transfer service provides a private, air-conditioned vehicle option.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, the service offers door-to-door transportation from the airport to hotels in the South Zone at a price starting from $64.15 per group of up to 3 people.
The transfer includes parking fees, taxes, and gratuities, with luggage of non-standard size accommodated.
With a punctual and professional driver waiting to greet customers, this service provides a hassle-free start to a Rio de Janeiro vacation.
Read our full review: GIG Airport Transfer X Rio De Janeiro Hotels Review
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Private Transfer SDU Airport to Anywhere in the City Rio
Passengers seeking a seamless transfer from Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) to their desired destination in Rio de Janeiro can rely on the private transfer service.
This hassle-free option accommodates groups of up to 14 people, saving time and avoiding the hassle of navigating public transportation or traffic. The service includes VAT, taxes, tolls, parking fees, and airport meet and greet.
Drivers meet passengers in the airport terminal and drop them off at popular areas like Ipanema, Copacabana, Leblon, and Barra da Tijuca.
The one-way private service is priced from €48.52 per group (up to 4), with free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
Reviews praise the efficient service and helpful, English-fluent drivers.
Read our full review: Private Transfer SDU Airport to Anywhere in the City Rio Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
When booking an airport transfer in Rio de Janeiro, travelers can choose from a range of options, including private transfers, shared transfers, and transfers with sightseeing. These transfers provide a convenient and reliable way to get to and from the airport, ensuring a hassle-free start or end to one’s trip. Travelers should consider their budget, group size, and travel preferences when selecting the best airport transfer option for their needs.