São Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) — The Complete Guide 2026
South America’s busiest gateway — 45M passengers, locally known as “Cumbica.” 2026 game changer: AeroMóvel People Mover fully operational, connecting CPTM train station to all 3 terminals in 6 minutes. Known for gridlock — use the train.
🚋 AeroMóvel connects all three terminals. The new automated People Mover links T1, T2, and T3 to the CPTM train station in under 6 minutes — free, runs every 6 minutes, and eliminates the old crowded shuttle buses entirely.
🚋 AeroMóvel People Mover: The new automated transit system connects the CPTM Aeroporto-Guarulhos Station to T1, T2, and T3 in under 6 minutes. Runs every 6 minutes, fully automated, completely free. No more crowded inter-terminal shuttle buses.
🚆 Getting to São Paulo
Option
Price
Journey Time
Notes
CPTM Expresso Aeroporto
R$5.00
35 min
Direct to Luz Station. Hourly service. Use AeroMóvel to reach CPTM station.
AeroMóvel
Free
6 min
Inter-terminal + CPTM station connection. Every 6 min.
Uber
R$80–150
45–90 min (traffic)
Dedicated Uber Lounge in T3 for ordered pickups. Surge pricing common.
Guarucoop Official Taxi
Fixed rate (varies)
45–90 min
Only use Guarucoop fixed-rate booths inside Arrivals — not unaffiliated drivers.
⚠️ Taxi Safety: Only use Guarucoop official taxi booths inside the Arrivals hall — fixed-rate pricing only. Do not accept ride offers from unaffiliated drivers in the terminal hall. GRU has a known issue with unlicensed operators at Arrivals exit.
💡 Pro Tip: São Paulo traffic is legendary. The CPTM Express Train (R$5.00) is the most reliable option for reaching central São Paulo — takes 35 minutes from GRU to Luz Station regardless of road conditions. Use AeroMóvel from your terminal to reach the CPTM station for free.
🛋️ Airport Lounges
Mastercard Black Lounge
T3 — International Departures
Popular, well-rated for international passengers
Great Brazilian snacks and buffet
Mastercard Black card access
Opens early for long-haul departures
LATAM VIP Lounge
T3 — Flagship
Best showers and sleeping areas
LATAM Business / elite access
Full hot food service
Considered best lounge at GRU
Bradesco Cartões Lounge
T2 — Domestic & Regional
Best option for domestic Brazilian travelers
Bradesco premium card holders
Food and drinks included
Less crowded than T3 lounges
💡 Insider Tips
🛂 E-Visa Required — USA, Canada, Australia
If you hold a USA, Canadian, or Australian passport, Brazil now requires a pre-obtained e-visa. Apply at gov.br before travel — save the PDF on your phone before check-in as some airlines request visa confirmation. Processing takes up to 3 business days.
🧀 Pão de Queijo — Casa do Pão de Queijo
Casa do Pão de Queijo is the unofficial ritual of every Brazilian traveller — Brazilian cheese bread available in all three terminals. Hot, fresh, and cheap. The perfect pre-flight snack and a uniquely Brazilian airport experience.
🔒 Luggage Safety — ProtecBag Wrapping
Use the ProtecBag plastic wrapping services available in all terminals for checked luggage. São Paulo’s baggage handling is frequently rough and pilferage does occur. Wrapping is inexpensive and widely used by experienced GRU travellers.
📶 WiFi — GRU Free + Cafe Unlimited
GRU Wi-Fi provides 1 hour free throughout the terminals. For unlimited access, purchase a coffee at any cafe — most provide an unlimited WiFi code with purchase. Speeds are generally adequate for streaming and video calls.
🚆 Use the Train — São Paulo Traffic
Road traffic between GRU and central São Paulo is among the worst in South America. The CPTM Express Train (R$5.00, 35 min) is always faster than a car during daytime hours. Combine with AeroMóvel for a seamless trip from terminal to city centre.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive for an international flight at GRU?
Allow 3 hours before international flights. T3 immigration can be particularly slow during the 20:00–23:00 bank of North America and Europe departures — queues can run 45–60 minutes at peak times. LATAM and Avianca check-in also closes 60 minutes before departure, stricter than European norms.
Can I use a credit card everywhere at GRU?
Yes — Apple Pay, NFC contactless, Visa, and Mastercard are accepted at virtually all airport outlets. Keep a small amount of BRL (Brazilian Reais) for emergencies or tips, as some ground-floor small vendors and shuttle services outside the main terminal prefer cash. ATMs are available at all terminals on arrival.
Is there a hotel inside GRU terminal?
The TRYP by Wyndham is located airside in T3 — past security, meaning no re-entry required. Excellent for very early morning international departures. The Pullman GRU is the best full-service landside option (5-minute shuttle from T3 exit). Book ahead during peak season as both fill quickly.
What is the AeroMóvel at GRU?
The AeroMóvel is GRU’s new automated People Mover — a free, driverless transit system connecting the CPTM Aeroporto-Guarulhos train station to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 in under 6 minutes. It runs every 6 minutes and replaces the old crowded inter-terminal shuttle buses. No ticket needed — completely free to use.
Is GRU airport safe?
Inside the terminal, GRU is well-monitored and considered safe. Use Guarucoop official taxis (fixed-rate booths in Arrivals) only — do not accept unsolicited rides. Use ProtecBag luggage wrapping for checked bags. Be aware of your surroundings immediately outside arrivals, especially at night, and arrange pickup or book Uber/taxi before exiting the terminal.
São Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) — AiFly Guide 2026
Data verified April 2026. Transport fares, lounge access rules, terminal assignments, and entry requirements may change — always confirm before travel.
