🚘 Car Rental at Rio de Janeiro Galeão Airport (GIG)
Available companies, locations, contacts & helpful tips
❓ Quick FAQs About Car Rental at GIG
- Where do I pick up the car? In the arrivals area of Terminal 2, near the rental counters.
- Do I need to book in advance? Strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons or late-night arrivals.
- Can I pay in my local currency? Yes, when booking online through Booking.com.
- What’s usually included in the price? Basic insurance, 24/7 assistance, and often unlimited mileage.
- Is it easy to drive in Rio? It can be tricky due to traffic and restricted zones. GPS is essential.
If you want the freedom to explore Rio de Janeiro and surrounding areas at your own pace, renting a car at Galeão Airport can be a great option. It’s especially useful if you’re traveling with others or planning trips outside the city center—such as to Búzios, Angra dos Reis, or Petrópolis.
📍 Rental desk location
All rental counters are located in the arrivals area of Terminal 2, right after baggage claim. Some companies offer 24-hour service, but advanced booking is strongly recommended, especially for late-night or early morning arrivals.
Avis
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals area
- Phone: +55 21 3398 5060
- Reservations: 0800 725 2847
- 🌐 Book now
Localiza
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals area
- Phone: +55 21 3398 3107
- Reservations: 0800 612 1121
- 🌐 Book now
Movida
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals area
- Phone: +55 21 3398 4722
- Reservations: 0800 606 8686
- 🌐 Book now
Unidas
- Location: Terminal 2 – Arrivals area
- Phone: +55 21 3219 0383
- Reservations: 0800 612 1121
- 🌐 Book now
📝 Tips before renting a car in Rio
- ✅ Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before leaving the airport. Take photos or a video in case of any future claims.
- ✅ Make sure your rate includes third-party insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and unlimited mileage if possible.
- 🕓 Online reservations in advance usually come with better prices and guaranteed availability, especially in high season.
- 📱 Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to avoid toll roads and congested routes.
- 🅿️ Be aware of restricted traffic zones and limited parking areas in downtown Rio.
🚗 Is car rental worth it in GIG?
It depends on your travel plans. If you’re staying mostly in central areas like Copacabana or Ipanema, using Uber or taxis might be more practical. But if you’re planning day trips or visiting remote beaches, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore without depending on public transport.
🚦 Prefer not to drive? Check out our guides to private transfers or Uber and taxis as alternative options.