How to Get from Rio de Janeiro to Paraty

Rio de Janeiro is the most common starting point for a trip to Paraty, and the good news is the journey is straightforward, roughly four hours by road, covering about 250 km down the Costa Verde. Here's exactly how to make the trip, whichever option fits your budget and schedule best. For the bigger picture across every route into Paraty, see our Complete Guide to Getting to Paraty.

By bus: Costa Verde from Novo Rio

The Costa Verde bus company operates the main route from Rio's Novo Rio bus terminal (Rodoviária Novo Rio) directly to Paraty's bus terminal, with departures running frequently throughout the day, from early morning into the evening. The trip takes roughly four to four and a half hours, and buses typically stop en route in Angra dos Reis.

Step by step: Get to Novo Rio bus terminal (a short taxi or rideshare from central Rio, the area around the terminal itself isn't the safest to walk around with luggage, so avoid arriving on foot). Buy your ticket at the Costa Verde counter or online in advance. Board and settle in for the ride, most coaches have air conditioning and a toilet on board, though Wi-Fi isn't guaranteed.

Our Tip: Book a day or two ahead if you can, especially on Fridays and during holiday periods, when seats sell out and prices climb closer to departure.

From Galeão (GIG) or Santos Dumont (SDU) airports

If you're flying into Rio, both Galeão International Airport (GIG) and the domestic Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) are served by private and shared transfer companies that go directly to Paraty, no need to first make your way into the city. A private transfer takes roughly four hours door to door, while a shared shuttle takes a little longer, sometimes five hours, since it may pick up other passengers or make a stop for travelers connecting onward to Ilha Grande.

This is genuinely the easiest option if you're arriving on an international flight and don't want to deal with a taxi into the city followed by the bus terminal. You can book a private transfer or a [shared transfer] (INSERT_URL_SHARED_TOUR_TRANSFER) directly with us from either airport.

Our Tip: If your flight lands in the evening, a private transfer is worth the extra cost. Arriving at the bus terminal after dark with luggage, in an unfamiliar city, is exactly the kind of situation worth paying to avoid.

Shared van, a middle ground

Shared shuttles run between Rio (airports or South Zone hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon) and Paraty, combining several bookings into one vehicle. It's more comfortable than the public bus and cheaper than a private transfer, a solid choice if your budget is tighter but you'd still rather skip the bus terminal experience.

Driving yourself

If you'd rather have your own car, the drive from Rio follows the BR-101 (Rio-Santos highway), a scenic but winding coastal road that passes through Angra dos Reis before reaching Paraty. It's about 250 km and typically takes four to four and a half hours without stops, though the road itself is worth slowing down for, with beach access points along much of the route.

Our Tip: Avoid driving this stretch after dark if you can. The road is narrow and winding in places, with limited lighting. Our Is Paraty Safe guide has more detail on night driving specifically.

Which option should you choose?

If your budget is the priority, the Costa Verde bus is reliable and comfortable enough for a four-hour trip. If you're arriving on an international flight, traveling with kids, or simply want the least friction possible, a private transfer is worth it. If you want a middle ground, look at shared vans. And if you love a good road trip with beach stops along the way, driving yourself is genuinely one of the nicer ways to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get from Rio de Janeiro to Paraty?

Roughly four to four and a half hours by bus, private transfer, or car, covering about 250 km.

What bus company runs from Rio to Paraty?

Costa Verde operates the main route, departing from Rio's Novo Rio bus terminal several times a day.

Can I get a private transfer directly from the airport?

Yes, private and shared transfers are available from both Galeão (GIG) and Santos Dumont (SDU) airports directly to Paraty, no need to go into the city first.

Is it safe to drive from Rio to Paraty at night?

We'd recommend avoiding it if possible. The BR-101 is narrow and winding in places with limited lighting after dark. Daytime driving is considerably easier and more scenic.

Should I book my transfer in advance?

Yes, especially during holidays, festivals, and weekends, when both bus seats and transfer availability get tight.