✈️ Today’s Arrivals at Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG)
Landing in Rio de Janeiro is exciting, but disembarking at Galeão can be intense if you don’t know what to expect. From long walks to passport control, to an arrivals hall where the pressure from informal taxi drivers is very high, this guide offers the tactical intelligence needed to leave the airport quickly, safely, and without paying surcharges.
FAQ Upon Landing
Is it safe to take a taxi in the arrivals hall?
Only if you go to the official counters (like Cootramo). The hall is full of touts shouting “Taxi, Taxi” who can be aggressive. Many travelers report scam attempts with inflated prices or lies about Uber availability.
Where does Uber pick me up?
Watch out for this: Uber does NOT pick you up at the Arrivals exit door (Ground Floor). You must go up to Floor 2 (Departures) and go out to the central island. It is color-coded (orange, blue, yellow) to coordinate with your driver.
Is there a fast lane for foreigners?
There should be, but recent experience indicates that they often mix all passengers in the same line, which can delay the process up to 1 hour during high season. Be patient.
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Critical Points: Scam Evasion Manual
The “Shark Hall” (Public Hall)
Upon crossing the final sliding door after customs, you will enter the public zone. Here you will be approached by people offering transport.
User Experience: Touts use fear tactics, telling you that “Uber doesn’t come in here” or that “you have to walk 1 km through a dangerous area.” This is a lie. There are also reports of taxi drivers offering a high fixed price for the trip promising a “discount voucher” for the return trip that they later do not honor.
Strategy: Ignore eye contact, do not stop, and walk decisively towards the elevators/stairs to go up to floor 2 if you are going to order an App ride, or go straight to the Cootramo counter if you prefer a safe taxi.
Currency Exchange
Avoid changing large sums at the exchange bureaus in the arrivals hall.
User Experience: Global Exchange has constant reports of hidden fees and very unfavorable exchange rates (up to 20% less than the market). It is preferable to use ATMs from recognized banks like Banco Safra or Banco 24h.
📡 Check real-time arrival flights at Galeão Airport
Check if your flight has landed, is en route, or has been delayed. Information is provided by the airlines and may change without notice. We recommend also checking with the airline.
Information provided by third parties and subject to change without notice. Riogig.com is not responsible for possible errors or omissions.
🧳 Useful Tips When Arriving at Galeão Airport
- Where do I claim my luggage?
Head to the baggage claim area and check the screens for the belt assigned to your flight. Sometimes, two flights may share the same carousel. User Experience: Be patient, baggage delivery times at GIG are usually slow, and the walks from the plane to the belt are long (15-20 min). - Do you have a connecting flight?
If you arrive late at night, the airport has dining options open 24h. Go straight to the corresponding boarding area for your next departure and check the information screens. - Returning from abroad?
Head to immigration for passport control. There may be delays depending on the time and number of international flights arriving. View requirements. - Did you buy electronic or valuable items?
As a Brazilian resident, remember to present your Accompanied Baggage Declaration (e-DBV) at customs if you carry items above the duty-free limit. - Who is meeting you at the airport?
When exiting to the public area, if you hired private transport, your driver will likely be waiting for you with a sign with your name. For taxis, go only to the official counters. Avoid accepting informal offers inside the airport. Check for door-to-door options or taxi and Ride-sharing apps transport guide from Galeão.
🏨 Hotels Inside or Near the Airport
Did your flight arrive late at night or do you have a long wait? Rest at one of the hotels available at the airport or its surroundings. A practical option to recover energy after a long flight.
🚨 Practical Recommendations Based on Real Experiences
- ⚠️ Lost Items: Check that you haven’t left belongings in the cabin or baggage claim area. Many items are lost during these moments of distraction.
- ↔️ Distances: If you need to move within Terminal 2, prepare to walk for several minutes. Wearing comfortable shoes helps.
- 🗣️ Language: Although some staff speak Spanish or English, having a translation app or basic data in Portuguese can facilitate your arrival.
- 🛃 Customs: If you exceed the allowed shopping limit, declare voluntarily at customs. Duty Free shops do not count towards the tax-free allowance limit.
- 🦟 Weather: The Uber waiting area is hot and humid. Keep light clothes handy if you are coming from a cold climate.
📌 Have More Questions?
Visit our FAQ section where we answer the most common inquiries about arrivals, immigration, transport, and more.