In Brazil, the bus is a convenient and comfortable way to travel. The seats are usually spacious, and the views along the way can be incredibly scenic.
However, navigating the bus station can feel a little chaotic if you don't understand the process, and don't have the Portuguese to ask for help. Luckily, no matter where you are in Brazil, the process is more or less the same.
How to take the bus in Brazil
Research the bus timetable and buy a bus ticket
There are various online ticket sites that you can use to see timetables and compare prices. ClickBus and Quero Passagem provide a fairly comprehensive list of options, however, there may be additional companies or departure times that are not available for sale online.
It is cheaper to buy bus tickets at the station, however buying online guarantees you a seat.
If you are worried about tickets selling out, you can monitor how full the bus is on any of the ticket sales sites. Tickets are more likely to sell out during high season, and around Carnaval and other major events.
If you chose to buy your ticket online, the website BusBud is one of the only sites that will allow you to purchase a ticket without a CPF (Brazilian tax number). Unfortunately, BusBud sometimes has fewer bus options available than other sites.
Arrive at the station
Make sure to arrive at least half an hour before your bus departs, even if you already have a ticket.
If you haven't bought a ticket yet, head to the ticket office.
If you have bought a ticket online, head to the ticket office anyway. You will usually have to exchange your online ticket for a paper ticket (check the T&Cs each time you buy a ticket).
Find your bus
Check your ticket for the correct boarding gate. The larger bus stations, especially those in big cities, have several gates or entry points.
Show your ticket or scan the QR code to enter the boarding area.
Drop off your bags and line up
If you have a large backpack or suitcase, do not enter the line to get on the bus. Go straight to the baggage line and drop off your baggage. You will receive a ticket which you must keep to retrieve your bag at the end of the trip. Do not lose your baggage ticket.
After you have dropped off your bag, line up to get on the bus, and have your passport and ticket ready to show.
Note: Bus stations charge a small fee to enter the boarding area. You usually won't notice because it is included in your ticket price.
However, sometimes when taking a minivan you will pay the driver directly, rather than buying a paper ticket at the station. In this case, you will need to pay the bus station fee separately. Head to the designated counter to pay - sometimes this can be done at the information counter, or the ticket office of the minivan company. They will give you a ticket that allows you to enter the boarding area, and from here you can find your van and pay the driver directly for your journey.
Amenities
The amenities vary depending on the bus company with which you are travelling, and the class of your ticket. Typically, the bus will have:
A toilet
USB chargers
Reading lights
Wi-Fi (but don't count on it working)
Sometimes the bus also has a drinking water station - this is more common on very long distance trips
What to bring for your bus trip:
Snacks: Long-distance busses typically stop every 3-4 hours at a rest stop, allowing you to buy something to eat. The food here is typically more expensive, so it's a good idea to bring a bottle of water and snacks if you are taking a long trip.
Something warm: Brazilians love AC! It can be quite cold on the bus, so make sure to bring a sweater, or a blanket if travelling overnight.
Pillow: Bring a travel pillow and eye mask if you are taking an overnight trip.
Boa Viagem! Enjoy your trip!
Want to know more about transportation in Brazil? See my full transport guide here.
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