🧭 Tips, Recommendations and Warnings for Traveling through RIO Galeão Airport

RIO Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG) is one of Brazil’s main gateways. It offers a wide range of services to support travelers, but it also has certain challenges, such as limited signage and irregular schedules. This guide is designed to help you prepare, avoid common issues, and make the most of your time at the airport—whether you’re departing, arriving, or connecting.

🧳 Before you arrive at the airport

⏰ Arrive early: At least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic ones.
📍 Confirm your terminal: Most flights operate from Terminal 2. Some smaller or executive flights use Terminal 1. Check with your airline.
🎫 Check in online: Avoid long queues and save time at the airport.
📲 Download your airline’s app: Useful for boarding passes, gate notifications, and real-time updates.

🚗 Getting to or from the airport

🚖 Ride apps: Uber and Cabify are safe and cost-effective. Meet your driver at designated pick-up points. Learn more
🚌 Public transport: The BRT TransCarioca line connects the airport to the metro and other key areas. Full details in buses.
🚘 Private car: There are covered and economy parking areas. See availability and prices in parking.

📌 General recommendations

📦 Baggage: Make sure your luggage complies with your airline’s weight and size limits. Scales are available at Terminal 2.
📡 Wi-Fi: The airport offers unlimited free Wi-Fi. Just register on the “RIOgaleao Wi-Fi” network.
🔌 Charging devices: Charging outlets are available in common areas and boarding gates, but it’s best to bring a power bank.
💬 Language: Not all staff speak English or Spanish. A translation app like Google Translate can be helpful.

⚠️ Warnings based on real passenger experiences

🔁 Avoid terminal confusion: Signage is limited. Follow digital displays or ask for assistance when in doubt.
🧍‍♂️ Immigration delays: During peak times (6:00–9:00 AM and 6:00–9:00 PM), it may take 45+ minutes. Allow extra time.
👀 Watch your belongings: A few users have reported petty thefts in restrooms and waiting areas. Keep your personal items secure at all times.
⚠️ Tag systems: Some users report issues with Sem Parar tags in the parking lot. It’s safer to use a card or PIX.

🛬 For passengers arriving at the airport

🛃 Immigration: Have your documents ready. Depending on your origin, you may be asked to show vaccination certificates.
🧾 Lost items: Contact lost and found for items misplaced inside the terminal, or your airline if it was onboard.
🚖 Pickup coordination: Agree on an exact meeting point with your contact. There are short-stay zones near the terminal exits.
💰 Currency exchange: Available 24/7, but airport rates tend to be less favorable than in the city.

🛋️ Services for comfort and waiting

🛏️ Resting: Terminal 2 has benches and quiet areas. Bring a sweater or blanket if waiting overnight.
🚿 Showers: Available inside VIP lounges like Plaza Premium Lounge.
🎒 Luggage storage: Provided by Malex in Terminal 2. Ideal for long layovers.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Traveling with children, seniors or reduced mobility

🚼 Baby care: Baby changing facilities are available inside main restrooms in both terminals.
♿ Accessibility: Ramps, elevators and accessible restrooms are available. Request assistance from your airline at least 48 hours in advance.
🧓 Seniors: VIP lounges provide a quieter and more comfortable waiting environment.

🍽️ Dining, shopping and relaxing

🍴 Food highlights

Terminal 1: Simple options like Subway and local cafés.
Terminal 2: Starbucks, Pizza Hut, 365 Deli, Casa do Pão de Queijo. For more options see food.

🛍️ Shopping

🕘 24/7 stores: Hudson and Dufry duty-free.
🎁 Souvenirs: Havaianas, Planet Brazil, Chilli Beans.
💄 Duty Free: Great deals on fragrances, chocolates and alcohol. See shopping.

🛋️ VIP lounges

🌐 Terminal 2: Plaza Premium Lounge, GOL Smiles, Admirals Club.
💳 Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, Visa/Mastercard premium cards or pay at the door.

🕐 Is it worth leaving the airport during a layover?

🕓 Only if your layover is over 7 hours. Don’t forget immigration and re-entry times.
🏖️ Nearby alternatives: Barra da Tijuca, Copacabana, or stay at the Linx Hotel Galeão located just 500 meters from the terminal.