Tips and recommendations for traveling through Guarulhos Airport

São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) is the busiest in Brazil and a major hub in Latin America. This practical guide will help you plan your time at the airport, whether you’re departing, arriving, or have a connection.

🧳 Before Arriving at the Airport

⏰ Arrive early: 3 hours for international flights, 2 hours for domestic flights.
📍 Confirm your terminal: Check with your airline which terminal it uses (1, 2, or 3).
🎫 Check in online: Save time and avoid unnecessary lines.
📲 Download your airline’s app: You can check boarding gates, schedule changes, and your digital boarding pass.

🚗 How to Get to Guarulhos Airport

🚕 Taxi or apps like Uber/99: They are comfortable and safe. Make sure to coordinate the correct meeting point according to your terminal.
🚌 Airport Bus Service: Connects several areas of São Paulo with the airport. See routes and schedules.
🚆 Train + Line 13 Jade: From Engenheiro Goulart station, you can take the train to Aeroporto-Guarulhos station and from there take a free shuttle bus to your terminal.
🚘 Private Car: There is covered and affordable parking. Check rates and availability.

📌 Quick Tips

💬 Language: Not all employees speak English. Google Translate can help.
📦 Baggage: Check weight and dimensions before arriving. Scales are available at the airport.
🧾 Documentation: Check required visas, passport, and vaccinations depending on your destination.
🔄 Transferring between terminals: Free shuttle buses run every 15 minutes between the three terminals. More information here.

⚠️ General Precautions When Traveling Through Guarulhos

👀 Watch your belongings: Although the airport is safe, keep an eye on your carry-on baggage, especially in waiting areas or restrooms.
🧍‍♂️ Avoid crowds: During peak hours, lines at security and immigration can take longer than 30 minutes.
🔁 Terminal transfers: Remember that moving between terminals involves exiting and re-entering the secure area. Allow enough time.
💸 Avoid last-minute currency exchange: Airport currency exchange rates may be less favorable than in the city.

🚘 Arriving/Leaving by Car

🅿️ Parking: There are covered and open-air options. Booking in advance can help you get a better rate. See details here.
📲 Quick Pick-ups: If someone is picking you up, it’s best to arrange the exact meeting point via WhatsApp or phone call. There are short-stay drop-off/pick-up zones at each terminal.
🛣️ Traffic: Plan with extra buffer time if traveling during peak hours (7:00 AM–10:00 AM and 5:00 PM–8:00 PM).

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Traveling with Children, Seniors, or Reduced Mobility

🚼 Baby care rooms: All three terminals have free baby care facilities (nurseries/changing rooms), located within the main restrooms.
♿ Accessibility: The airport has ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. If you need assistance, request it from your airline at least 48 hours in advance.
🧓 Seniors: VIP lounges, such as Urban Cowork or Plaza Premium Lounge, offer comfortable rest areas for long waits.

📶 Wi-Fi, Charging, and Connectivity

📡 Free Wi-Fi: Available for 4 hours per day in all airport areas. Network: GRU WIFI.
🔌 Power outlets: Outlets are available in boarding areas, food courts, and VIP lounges. Bring an adapter if your device doesn’t use the Brazilian plug type.
🔋 Tip: Carry a charged power bank to avoid surprises if you can’t find an available outlet.

🍽️ Where to Eat, Shop, or Rest

🍔 Featured Dining

Terminal 1: Starbucks (24h), Heineken Lounge.
Terminal 2: McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Subway, 365 Deli, Casa do Pão de Queijo (several locations open 24h).
Terminal 3: Heineken Bar, Viena, 365 Deli.
💡 Tip: Food before the security checkpoint (landside) is usually cheaper than at the boarding gates (airside).

🛍️ Shopping

🕘 24h: Some stores like Hudson, São Paulo Dufry Express, and Dufry Duty Free are open 24/7.
🎁 Souvenirs: Havaianas, Chilli Beans, Planet Brazil.
💄 Fashion and Cosmetics: Luxury boutiques like Chanel, Dior, Hugo Boss (T3 – duty-free area).
🧴 Tip: If traveling internationally, the Duty Free offers better prices on perfumes, drinks, and chocolates.

🛋️ VIP Lounges

🛫 Terminal 2: Urban Cowork, The Lounge São Paulo, Plaza Premium Lounge.
🌐 Terminal 3: W Premium Lounge, Centurion Lounge, LATAM VIP Lounge, Nomad Lounge.
💳 Access: With cards like Visa Infinite, Mastercard Black, Diners, Priority Pass, or by paying at the door.
💡 Tip: Verify that your flight departs from that terminal, as you cannot switch terminals after passing security (airside).

🕓 Is it Worth Leaving the Airport During a Long Layover?

🕐 Recommended only if your layover is longer than 7 hours. You must consider immigration (exit and re-entry) and security times.
🚌 Nearby destinations: Shopping Internacional de Guarulhos (approx. 20 min), Parque Bosque Maia (approx. 30 min), São Paulo city center (approx. 45–60 min, depending on traffic).
🛌 Alternative: Stay in sleep cabins like Fast Sleep or at the TRYP by Wyndham hotel inside Terminal 3.

🛬 Tips for Arriving Passengers

🛃 Immigration: Wait times vary between 15 and 60 minutes depending on the time of day and nationality. Have your passport and visa (if required) ready.
🎒 Baggage Claim: Check the display screens, as baggage carousels can change without notice.
🚐 Transport to the city: Uber or Cabify (approx. R$55–R$75 to the city center), Airport Bus Service buses, or local bus line 257 + metro.
💰 Currency Exchange: Exchange only what you need at the airport. Rates are usually less favorable than in the city.

🎁 Lesser-Known Free Services

💧 Drinking water fountains in various airport areas. Bring a reusable bottle.
🛐 Interfaith chapel in Terminal 2 (public area).
🔒 Free storage for baby strollers and assistance for persons with reduced mobility (request through your airline).

🎯 Conclusion

Guarulhos is a large, modern airport with many options, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t arrive prepared. With clear information, good time management, and a relaxed attitude, your time at the airport will be much more pleasant.