To get around in Parana, a region in southern Brazil, you can use a variety of transportation options including domestic flights, buses, trains, and rental cars, as well as local city transport such as metro, buses, and taxis.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The main international airport in Parana is the Afonso Pena International Airport, located in the city of São José dos Pinhais, near Curitiba, the capital of Parana. This airport receives direct flights from major Brazilian cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, as well as international flights from neighboring countries. You can also enter Parana by land through the neighboring states of São Paulo, Santa Catarina, and Mato Grosso do Sul, or by bus from other Brazilian cities. The main overland entry points are the highways BR-116, BR-277, and BR-376, which connect Parana to other parts of Brazil.
If you are traveling from outside Brazil, you can fly into one of the major international airports in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro and then take a domestic flight to Afonso Pena International Airport or another airport in Parana. Alternatively, you can take a bus or rent a car and drive to Parana from other parts of Brazil. The bus companies such as Ormeño and Util offer daily services from major cities to Parana, while car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis have offices at the airports and in major cities.
Domestic Flights
Parana has an extensive domestic air network, with flights connecting the region to major cities in Brazil. The main airlines operating in Parana are Azul, Gol, and LATAM, which offer daily flights to destinations such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and other cities in the region. You can book flights online through the airlines' websites or through travel agencies, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year. A one-way ticket from São Paulo to Curitiba, for example, can cost between $50 and $200 USD, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
Trains & Rail
Parana has a limited rail network, with only a few routes operating in the region. The main rail line connects Curitiba to the port city of Paranaguá, and there are also trains to other cities in the region such as Ponta Grossa and Cascavel. The trains are operated by the Brazilian rail company Rumo, and tickets can be booked online or at the train stations. The trains are generally comfortable and reliable, but the network is limited and not as extensive as the bus or air network.
Buses & Coaches
Buses are a popular way to get around in Parana, with many companies operating routes to cities and towns throughout the region. The main bus companies are Ormeño, Util, and Expresso Nordeste, which offer daily services to destinations such as Curitiba, Ponta Grossa, and Cascavel. The buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around $10 USD for a one-way ticket. You can book tickets online or at the bus stations, and it's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Curitiba | $1.50 | Efficient and reliable, with five lines and 26 stations |
| City Bus | Curitiba, Ponta Grossa, Cascavel | $1-$2 | Extensive network, with many routes and frequent departures |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-$5/km | Available at airports, bus stations, and on the streets |
| Ride-Hailing | Curitiba, Ponta Grossa | $5-$10 | Uber and 99Taxis operate in the main cities |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available | - | Not a common mode of transport in Parana |
Driving
- To drive in Parana, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- The roads in Parana are generally in good condition, but you should be aware of potential hazards such as potholes, traffic congestion, and pedestrians.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in Brazil, with prices starting from around $1.50 USD per liter.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis have offices at the airports and in major cities, and you can book online or in person.
- It's a good idea to rent a car with a GPS system, as the roads in Parana can be confusing, especially for tourists.
- Be aware of the local traffic laws, such as the requirement to wear a seatbelt and the prohibition on using a cell phone while driving.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of potential scams, such as taxi drivers who may try to overcharge you or take a longer route than necessary.
- Use a reputable taxi company or ride-hailing app to ensure your safety.
- Download the Moovit app to plan your route and get real-time information on public transport.
- Use a credit card or debit card to pay for tickets and services, as cash may not be accepted everywhere.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as bus stations and airports.
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as "obrigado" (thank you) and "desculpe" (excuse me), to help you navigate and communicate with locals.
- Check the weather forecast before traveling, as the roads in Parana can be affected by heavy rain or flooding.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected events such as trip cancellations or medical emergencies.