São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)

Location: Guarulhos, São Paulo

Distance to Downtown São Paulo: ~30 km (18 miles)

Congonhas Airport (CGH) - São Paulo Domestic Airport

Location: Downtown São Paulo

Distance from Downtown: ~10 km (6 miles)

For guests planning to extend their trip to explore other parts of Brazil, Congonhas Airport (CGH) provides convenient domestic flights.

Uber: Uber is widely used in São Paulo.

Estimated fare from GRU to downtown: R$60–R$100 (~$12–$20 USD).

Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport, though they may be more expensive than Uber.

Airport Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer shuttle services or transfers to and from GRU.

Additional Information

We recommend alternative transportation options than the Metro, as the Metro can be crowded and may be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with São Paulo.

Private car service is also a choice. Reach out to your hotel for booking.

We've put together a selection of recommended hotels below, all conveniently located near the Rosewood Hotel and centrally located in São Paulo.

Starting from April 2025, Brazil will require a visa for travelers from the United States and Canada. This change aligns with Brazil's recent decision to reinstate visa requirements for tourists from these countries.

You will need to apply for a tourist visa through a Brazilian consulate or online portal prior to your trip. This is a quick process.

While it can take as little as 5 days to process, it is highly recommended to apply at least two months in advance. Once issued, the visa is valid for ten years.

For U.S. Guests:

For more information, visit: U.S. Embassy Brazil – Postponement of Brazilian Visa Requirement to 2025

Visa Application for U.S. Travelers:

Brazil Visa Application

For Canadian Guests:

For more details, visit: Brazil Visa Application

In late November, São Paulo experiences a transition from spring into summer, with warm, comfortable weather and occasional rain. This brings pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 25–30°C (77–86°F) and nighttime lows between 17–20°C (63–68°F). Humidity tends to rise as summer approaches, and while rain is occasional, it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket.

Typical day: Expect warm, sunny days with the possibility of light showers, making sun protection important—think sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat. For evenings, temperatures may cool slightly, so a light sweater or blazer is recommended, especially for outdoor events.

Language: Portuguese is the official language. While many people in São Paulo speak some English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful and appreciated.

Safety: São Paulo is generally safe in tourist areas, but exercise caution as you would in any large city. Avoid flashing valuables, stick to well-lit areas, and use trusted transportation options like Uber or taxis.

Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss Brazilian classics like feijoada, pão de queijo, and brigadeiros. São Paulo is also famous for its pizza and has a vibrant international food scene including some of the best Japanese food we've ever had.

Tipping: Service charges are often included in the bill (10%), but if not, it’s customary to leave a similar tip. Check your receipt for details.

Adapters: Brazil uses type N power sockets with a voltage of 127V or 220V, depending on the region. Bring a universal adapter and check your devices for voltage compatibility.

Comfortable Shoes: São Paulo is a city with many attractions, and you’ll likely do a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Emergency Numbers: Save important numbers like the local police (190), ambulance services (192), and your country's consulate.