🚘 Car Rental at Rio Galeão Airport (GIG)
Renting a car at Galeão is the key to exploring the Lake Region (Búzios, Cabo Frio) or the Green Coast. However, the experience varies dramatically depending on the company you choose. While some offer impeccable service, others have “fine print” about cleaning and equipment that have cost recent travelers a lot of money. This guide helps you choose well and shield yourself against improper charges.
FAQ about Car Rentals at GIG
Where exactly do I pick up the vehicle?
Although the counters are in the Terminal 2 arrivals area, the cars are not there. You will need to take a free shuttle van from the company that will take you to the rental yard, located about 5-10 minutes from the terminal.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended. During high season or night flights, availability runs out and counter prices are much higher.
Can I pay in my currency?
Yes, if you book online through platforms like Booking. This helps you lock in the price and avoid currency fluctuations.
What does the price normally include?
Basic insurance, 24-hour assistance, and in many cases, unlimited mileage. Check the insurance deductible carefully.
Is it easy to drive in Rio?
It can be complicated due to traffic and restricted zones. Using GPS (Waze or Google Maps) is essential not only to guide you but to avoid accidentally entering unsafe communities.
Critical Points: Avoid Surprise Fines
The “Sand Fee” (Unidas / Avis)
Recent users have reported abusive cleaning charges when returning the car to these companies, claiming the vehicle had “a little sand” on the mats.
Strategy: Before returning the car, vacuum the mats if you went to the beach. It costs R$20 at a gas station and saves you a cleaning fine that can exceed R$250.
The Spare Tire Mystery
A reported scam involves handing over the car without a spare tire (or with a damaged one) and charging for a new one at the end of the rental.
User Experience: A traveler reported a R$2,500 fine at Unidas for the lack of this item, as it was not verified in the initial checklist.
Strategy: Upon receiving the car, demand to lift the trunk mat and verify that the spare tire and jack are present. Film this process.
Where are the counters?
All rental counters are located in the Terminal 2 arrivals area, just after baggage claim. Some companies operate 24 hours, but it is essential to have a confirmed prior reservation if your flight arrives at night or at dawn.
Avis
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals Area (Counter). Pickup at external yard.
- Contact: Official Site
- 🌐 Book now
User Experience: Avis often operates through Unidas infrastructure. Integration problems with reservations have been reported (Avis reservation not appearing in Unidas system) as well as strict cleaning charges.
Localiza
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals Area (Counter).
- Contact: Official Site
- 🌐 Book now
User Experience: Currently the best-rated company at GIG. Users highlight staff efficiency (positive mentions of employees like Davi and Simone), car cleanliness, and billing transparency. It is the recommended option for reliability.
Movida
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals Area (Counter).
- Contact: Official Site
- 🌐 Book now
User Experience: Mixed opinions. They have a good shuttle van service, but some users have complained about interior vehicle cleanliness (dirty air conditioning) and difficulties with deposit returns.
Unidas
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals Area (Counter).
- Contact: Official Site
- 🌐 Book now
User Experience: Caution required. It is the company with the most recent reports regarding extra fees when returning the vehicle. If you rent here, be extremely rigorous with the initial and final inspection.
Tips Before Renting a Car
- ✅ Inspect the vehicle upon pickup: take photos or video to avoid charges for previous damage.
- ✅ Check if the price includes third-party insurance, 24-hour assistance, and unlimited mileage.
- 🕓 Booking online in advance usually guarantees better rates and availability during high season.
- 📱 Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to avoid unnecessary tolls and heavy traffic zones.
- 🅿️ Pay attention to regulated parking areas and access-restricted zones in downtown Rio.
Is it worth renting at GIG?
It depends on your itinerary. If you are only going to move around the center or tourist areas like Copacabana and Ipanema, it might be better to use apps like Uber or private transfers. But if you plan to tour beaches, towns, or take long trips, a car will give you total flexibility and freedom.