Is it recommended to travel from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro at night?

Question

In order to save a night at a hotel I was thinking of sleeping at the bus while going to Rio. Is it recommended? dangerous?

or maybe is better to travel during the day and be up and ready for Rio's nightlife?

Answer 1

I traveled by bus from Curitiba to Sao Paulo at night.  I paid a bit more for a first class bus, but it was worth it for me.  I watched the video, I slept, you know things that you would normally do on the bus.  I arrived at about 8 or 9 a.m. and went directly to MY hotel so I can shower.  I think it cost a bit more that way, but it was worth it to me.

It is safe.  But like the previous poster said.  Be careful of outside the bus station.  It could be a problem.

Whatever you do, enjoy RIO and all of Brazil.  It is a wonderful country.

Answer 2

I think the folks that answered your question are right. The only thing I would like to warn you though is that, if you ever had problems with motion sickness, I would recommend you take some dramamine or something. The road from Sao Paulo to Rio is pretty rough and windy. The trip won't take more than 6 or 7 hours and it really isn't dangerous as far as your personal safety goes. The only danger would be you feeling a little sick or getting a crazy driver...it can feel a little like a roller coaster ride. Brazilian buses are excellent though; they're comfortable and clean. Nothing like Greyhound.

Answer 3

Yes you can safely travel at night in a bus from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro...dangerous? no more, no less than anywhere else...besides you will definitely not be alone, a lot of people choose to travel by bus....Have a great trip. As the others have said, just be aware of your surroundings at the bus terminal, that can be a little dangerous, just try not to stand out too much as a tourist...God Bless.

Answer 4

You can get a bus called Leito where you literally travel sleeping just like in a normal single bed. Very comfortable.

Answer 5

A night bus is okay if you really must save on the hotel. Be prepared for an all night ride. Its not dangerous for the locals but if you are a tourist you do stand out. If you can afford it, fly. Gol airways for example has fares that are almost the same as the bus. You could check their website. I think its voegol.com.

Answer 6

It is safe. However, it all depends on your budget and the trip duration.

I am from the US, and my flight arrives early in the morning. I have taken both, the air and the bus to RJ. Please remember that SP also does have a nice nightlife, though about 50% more expensive than that of RJ.

Answer 7

Yes, it is quite safe as would be anywhere in the world.  That trip shouldn´t be a problem at night.  

The problem is Rio´s bus terminal (on the outside).  So avoid buses from and to the bus terminal.  Always prefer a taxi (It would be better to choose an old driver, with some religious artifact hanging from its rear mirror.  That  gives you a hint he might be a good person...).  If you don´t mind to pay more, buy your taxi fare from one of the companies located in the bus terminal. That´s the safest.

Yes, you´ll miss one night in Rio, but hopefully you´ll have many other fun nights.  Besides, it´s safer to arrive to Rio in the early morning than at dusk.

Have a safe trip!