Rio de Janeiro Galeão International Airport (GIG)
Practical guide with data, tips, and real passenger experiences
This site goes beyond basic information about Galeão Airport (GIG). We gather real passenger experiences published on platforms like Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, SkyTrax, Yelp, and Reddit, as well as official data and contributions from our community. All to offer you a reliable, clear, and updated guide that allows you to dodge “tourist traps” and move like a local.
Essentials Before Arriving
Where do I catch an Uber without chaos?
Don’t go down to the arrivals level. The winning strategy is to go up to the Departures Level (Floor 2) and exit to the central island (Gate D). It is safer and less overwhelming than the “shark tank” of taxi drivers on the ground floor.
Is it cold or hot in the terminal?
Prepare for extremes. The Uber waiting area is hot and humid, but the boarding lounges have “freezing level” air conditioning. Don’t pack all your coats in your checked luggage.
Can I charge my phone?
It’s difficult. Users report that most outlets and charging towers are broken or turned off. Traveling with an external battery (power bank) is almost mandatory at GIG.
Terminal 2, check-in area – AI-generated image
Intelligence Alerts: Avoid These Mistakes
Yellow Cab Harassment
Upon leaving customs, you will be aggressively approached. Some cooperatives (like Aerotaxi/Aerocoop) have been flagged for offering inflated prices or promising “return vouchers” that they later do not honor.
Strategy: Ignore the touts. If you want a taxi, go straight to the Cootramo counter (safe but expensive). If you want to save money, go up to floor 2 to order your App ride.
Money: Digital Wallets vs. Cash
Exchange bureaus in the arrivals hall (Global Exchange) have very unfavorable rates. Exchanging cash there is losing money.
Strategy: The best option today is to use cards from digital wallets or digital banks (like Wise, Revolut, or Global66). They give you an exchange rate close to the commercial one and are accepted everywhere. Use ATMs (Banco24Horas) only if you need a minimum of cash.
What will you find here?
- ✔️ Practical tips on immigration, luggage, connections, and security.
- ✔️ Real information on VIP lounges, Wi-Fi, transport, dining, shopping, and general services.
- ✔️ Updated transport guides: buses, Uber, taxis, car rental.
- ✔️ Pros and cons of the airport based on verified reviews and experiences.
Real-time Flight Status
Information provided by © Avionio. Subject to change.
Location and Access
The airport is located on Governor’s Island, 20 km from the city of Rio de Janeiro. View on map.
Hotels Inside and Near the Airport
- Rio Aeroporto Hotel – Inside the airport (Terminal 1).
- Linx Hotel Galeão – A few meters from Terminal 1 (offers free shuttle, do not walk).
Terminals and Connections
The airport has an operational Terminal 2 divided into international and domestic sectors. See complete guide.
User Experience: Keep in mind that distances are huge. Walking from security control to the furthest gates can take 15 to 20 minutes.
Transport and Mobility
- 🚕 Taxis and apps – Dedicated zones by service type (Uber on Floor 2).
- 🚍 Urban and executive buses – BRT (renovated economical option), frescão and regional buses.
- 🚘 Car rental – In Terminal 2 (Watch out for cleaning fees at Unidas/Avis).
- 🛎️ Private Transfers – Door-to-door service from your hotel or accommodation (Recommended to avoid stress).
VIP Lounges
Available in Terminal 2: See Lounges – Book
Parking
Covered, economical, and premium options. See details
Airlines
See full list of airlines and counters at Galeão Airport.
Services and Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, pharmacies, exchange bureaus, banks, duty-free shops, rest areas, workspaces, ATMs, kids’ zone, luggage wrapping, cafes, restaurants, and more.
Quick Access (FAQs)
- 📶 Is there free Wi-Fi? Yes, there is a free network available and it works decently for messaging.
- 📱 Can I buy a SIM card? Yes, in the arrivals area. Attention: Users report that the available store (Aerochip) has very high prices.
- 🛂 Immigration controls? From 15 to 90 minutes depending on the time. The Mercosur line sometimes mixes with the general one.
- 💺 Workspaces? Yes, there are coworking zones, but check first if the outlets have power.
- 📦 Where to store luggage? Locker service (Malex) available. Tip: Pay in cash if possible; there are reports of issues with duplicate charges on cards.
Contact and Official Channels
- 🌐 Official Website
- 🐦 X
- ☎️ Customer Service: +55 21 3004 6050 / WhatsApp: +55 21 967 615 041