Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport quick facts

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU), locally known as Cumbica Airport, serves as the primary international gateway to Brazil and the busiest airport in Latin America. Strategically located in Guarulhos, the airport is a critical hub for LATAM Brasil and Gol Linhas Aéreas, connecting millions of travelers to destinations across the globe. With three dedicated passenger terminals, the airport handles a massive volume of domestic, regional, and intercontinental flights daily. The facility is operated by GRU Airport, a private consortium that has significantly modernized the infrastructure to enhance passenger experience since taking over operations. Whether you are arriving to explore the vibrant metropolis of São Paulo or transiting to another exciting destination within Brazil, São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport offers a comprehensive range of services designed to make your journey seamless.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

The terminal layout at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport is arranged sequentially from Terminal 1 through Terminal 3. Terminals 2 and 3 are the core of the airport's operations and are physically connected post-security by a long internal walkway. Terminal 1 is the smallest structure and is physically separated from the main complex. It is essential to check your ticket carefully before arriving, as moving between Terminal 1 and the others requires exiting the building and taking a landside shuttle bus. Below is a precise breakdown of the connectivity and distances you can expect.

Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 are directly joined. The walking distance between the center of Terminal 2 and the far end of Terminal 3 takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes via moving walkways located along the connecting corridor. This is the primary route for connecting passengers. Terminal 1, however, is only reachable via a free 24-hour shuttle bus service that departs from the Arrivals area of the other terminals. The bus ride takes around 10 minutes depending on traffic. For passengers connecting to a flight in Terminal 1, you must pass through immigration and customs if arriving internationally, re-clear security, and factor in an additional 40 to 60 minutes for the transfer process.

Navigating São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Terminals

Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the smallest and most basic facility currently in operation. It exclusively handles domestic flights operated by Azul Brazilian Airlines. The terminal features a straightforward, single-pier design. Because it opened with a focus on regional connectivity, the amenities here are more limited compared to the other terminals, though you will still find essential dining options and retail kiosks airside. There are no airline lounges operated by Azul in this terminal. The architecture is functional, and navigating from check-in to your gate typically takes less than 5 minutes on foot. Terminal 1 does not offer direct post-security access to international gates.

Terminal 2
Terminal 2 has historically been the workhorse of the airport. It manages a mix of domestic and international flights, serving as the home for Gol Linhas Aéreas and its partners. Airlines operating out of Terminal 2 include Gol, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United, Air Canada, Avianca, Copa Airlines, and Aerolíneas Argentinas. The terminal has undergone significant renovations to modernize its waiting areas. The airside section includes a sprawling duty-free walkthrough and a food court featuring Brazilian fast-casual chains. Multiple lounges are available here, including the Gol Premium Lounge and contract lounges accessible via Priority Pass. The layout extends linearly, though walking to the farthest gates still requires a manageable 8-minute walk from the central security checkpoint.

Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is the newest and most architecturally impressive building at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport. This terminal is primarily international and serves as the fortress hub for LATAM Airlines. Walk through the high ceilings and natural light-flooded check-in hall, and you will find counters for LATAM, Lufthansa, SWISS, Emirates, British Airways, Air France, KLM, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and many other intercontinental carriers. The airside space is vast, featuring upscale retail boutiques, a wide variety of gastronomic options, and multiple lounges including the flagship LATAM VIP Lounge. Terminal 3 is renowned for its efficient passenger flow, with automated passport control gates (e-Gates) for eligible travelers speeding up immigration considerably.

Transportation to and from São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

Transportation from the airport to the city has improved dramatically recently. Located roughly 25 km (16 miles) northeast of downtown São Paulo, transit time depends heavily on traffic. Options range from high-tech train connections to ride-hailing apps. Traffic on the Marginal Tietê and Rodovia Presidente Dutra is notoriously heavy; during peak hours, the drive can take over 90 minutes.

Getting to and from São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport by Car

Driving from São Paulo involves taking the Marginal Tietê to the Rodovia Presidente Dutra (BR-116). Signage is clear. On the return, follow signs for São Paulo.

Parking at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport
The airport offers several official parking options directly adjacent to the terminals. The garages are connected via covered walkways to Terminals 2 and 3.

Private parking lots located just outside the airport perimeter on the access road often provide valet services, car washes, and covered parking. These typically cost between $5 and $9 per day. Several nearby hotels, particularly along Rodovia Hélio Smidt, offer park-and-fly packages for travelers who stay a night before departing. General curbside drop-off rules strictly prohibit leaving your vehicle unattended at the terminal entrance; security will ask you to move immediately if you are not actively loading or unloading. A cell phone waiting lot is located near the entrance of the airport avenue, where drivers can wait free for up to 30 minutes until arriving passengers are curbside.

Getting to and from São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Ride-hailing apps Uber and 99 are fully operational and legal in São Paulo. The designated pickup area for app-based rides is located inside the parking structure. Upon exiting baggage claim, follow the signs to the Parking Garage; the app will direct you to a specific floor and pillar number for pickup. This is a short indoor walk from the terminals.

Official prepaid taxis are located directly outside the arrival halls. Use the desks operated by the cooperative Guarucoop to purchase a fixed-rate voucher before walking to the cab. This eliminates price haggling. A trip to Avenida Paulista typically costs between $20 and $35 USD, depending on traffic and the exact zone. Payment by international credit card is accepted at the taxi desks; drivers also accept cash in Brazilian Reais.

Getting to and from São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport by Public Transportation

The airport is now fully connected by rail with the launch of the AeroGRU people mover system, which has transformed the final leg of the train journey. The CPTM Line 13-Jade Expresso Aeroporto connects central São Paulo directly to the airport station, and the AeroGRU seamlessly bridges the final gap to the terminals.

To use the train, board the CPTM Expresso Aeroporto at Luz Station (Platform 5) or Palmeiras-Barra Funda (Platform 10). Ride the train to the end of the line: Estação Aeroporto-Guarulhos. Exit the train, turn immediately right through the fare gates, and walk directly onto the AeroGRU platform. Board the automated people mover, which stops at Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 in just six minutes. The AeroGRU cars are air-conditioned, and the journey is free. A comfortable Executive Bus also travels to major points, including Tatuapé Metro Station and Congonhas Airport (CGH), for a prepaid fare.

Key Amenities at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

ATMs

Automated teller machines are widespread across the airport. You will find Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, and Santander ATMs in the public arrival halls and airside departure areas of Terminals 2 and 3. Most machines accept international cards and dispense either Brazilian Reais or US Dollars.

Lost and Found

The lost and found service is managed by GRU Airport. If you lose an item inside the terminal or on the AeroGRU, contact the service via email at [email protected] or by calling +55 11 2445-2945. If you lost an item on an aircraft, you must contact your specific airline directly.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available for rent in the baggage claim areas and curbside for a small fee, typically payable by credit card. Secure luggage wrapping services operate in the check-in halls of Terminals 2 and 3. If you have a long layover, luggage storage lockers are available; expect to pay approximately $5 USD per item for 24 hours.

Pets

Traveling with pets is facilitated through specific outdoor relief areas located outside the arrivals level of Terminals 2 and 3. Inside the terminal, animals must remain in their hard-shell carriers. The airport strictly enforces this rule unless you are traveling with a registered service animal.

Showers

Showers are available inside several premium lounges, including the LATAM VIP Lounge and the Star Alliance Lounge in Terminal 3. There are no public pay-in shower facilities available landside. Access to showers requires a lounge entry pass or qualifying ticket.

Currency Exchange

Confidence Câmbio operates multiple exchange counters throughout the airport. You will find locations in the baggage claim area before exiting customs, as well as in the departure duty-free zones. Rates at the airport are competitive, though withdrawing Reais directly from a bank ATM often provides a superior interbank exchange rate.

Smoking Area

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport is strictly smoke-free indoors. Designated smoking points are located outside the terminal buildings on the curbside areas only. There are no smoking lounges after security; plan accordingly before you enter the terminal.

WiFi

Complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout the airport. Connect to the network named "GRU Airport Wi-Fi" and accept the terms of use via a splash page. No password is required, and the service is generally stable and fast enough for streaming and video calls. Charging stations and power outlets with universal sockets are plentiful in the newly renovated waiting areas of Terminal 3, and seating areas in Terminal 2 also feature integrated USB ports.

Airport Lounges at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

Airline Lounges at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

LATAM VIP Lounge (Terminal 3)
Located airside in Terminal 3 near the international duty-free area, this is the largest lounge in the airport. It offers expansive shower suites, a hot and cold buffet including Brazilian specialties, a fully tended bar, and quiet zones with semi-private workstations. Access is granted to business class passengers on LATAM and oneworld alliance partners, as well as elite status holders of LATAM Pass Black and equivalent tiers.

Star Alliance Lounge (Terminal 2)
This lounge is situated in the international departure zone of Terminal 2. It features an outdoor terrace, full dining options, private shower rooms, and a well-stocked bar. Post-pandemic, it reopened with enhanced dining. Access is restricted to First and Business Class passengers flying on Star Alliance member airlines (such as United, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and SWISS), as well as Star Alliance Gold status members. Day passes are not available for purchase.

Gol Premium Lounge (Terminal 2)
Serving domestic and regional travelers, this lounge in the domestic area of Terminal 2 offers comfortable seating, a buffet with light Brazilian fare, and business facilities. It provides a quiet atmosphere away from the busy terminal concourse. Access is available for Gol Smiles Diamante cardholders and passengers flying in Gol's Premium Economy. Day pass entrance can be purchased at the reception for approximately $30 USD.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

American Express Centurion Lounge
While the Centurion network is growing globally, there is currently no dedicated American Express Centurion Lounge operating at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport. Cardholders are advised to check the benefits of the airport's independent lounges through their AmEx Global Lounge Collection program.

Priority Pass Lounges at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

Multiple independent lounges accept Priority Pass members.

Paris 6 Lounge (Terminal 3)
Located in Terminal 3's international airside area, this fashionable restaurant-lounge hybrid is themed after a classic French bistro but located in Brazil. Priority Pass holders can use their credit for a set dining menu or simply relax in the lounge area. The hours are from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM daily. It is smaller than the main airline lounges but highly rated for its à la carte service and desserts.

W Premium Group VIP Lounge (Terminal 2)
This lounge accepts Priority Pass members and offers a business-center environment with showers, a snack buffet, and a self-serve bar. It is accessible to passengers from 6:00 AM onward. During peak morning hours, waiting lists can be common due to the volume of Priority Pass members, so plan to arrive early.

Other Airports in the Region

São Paulo–Congonhas Airport (CGH)
Congonhas is located only 8 km (5 miles) from the city center, making it the premier choice for business travelers heading to meetings on Avenida Paulista or Faria Lima. It handles almost exclusively domestic flights, with the air bridge (Ponte Aérea) to Rio de Janeiro–Santos Dumont (SDU) being one of the busiest routes in the world. It is known for its quick curb-to-gate times, but is subject to frequent delays in bad weather due to its short runway.

Viracopos International Airport (VCP)
Situated in Campinas, approximately 80 km (50 miles) northwest of São Paulo, Viracopos serves as the primary hub for Azul Brazilian Airlines. It handles a mix of domestic traffic and international cargo. If you are traveling to the interior of São Paulo state or the Campinas region, Viracopos is a far more convenient option than fighting Guarulhos traffic.

São José dos Campos Airport (SJK)
Located about 90 km (56 miles) east of the capital in the Paraíba Valley, this is a small regional airport. It is an excellent alternative for travelers visiting the Embraer headquarters or the tech and industrial hubs in São José dos Campos, avoiding all the metropolitan traffic of Guarulhos.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Overview

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport was inaugurated in 1985 to relieve the already congested Congonhas Airport. It was named in honor of André Franco Montoro, a distinguished politician and governor of São Paulo. The airport sits directly on the dividing line of Guarulhos municipality and the northern edge of São Paulo city, approximately 25 km (16 miles) from Praça da Sé, the official center of the city. It is a civilian airport operated by the GRU Airport consortium, with Invepar and ACSA holding the controlling stake alongside the state-owned Infraero. The airport records an annual passenger throughput of approximately 42 million travelers, making it the busiest in Brazil and a critical nexus for South American air traffic. It operates three terminals with a planned expansion expected to eventually add a fourth terminal to handle future growth.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Postal Code

Postal Code: 07190-100
City: Guarulhos
Province/State: São Paulo
Country: Brazil
Complete Mailing Address: Rodovia Hélio Smidt, S/N - Aeroporto, Guarulhos - SP, 07190-100, Brazil

Duty Free and Shopping at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

The Dufry-operated duty-free walkthrough in Terminals 2 and 3 is gigantic and impossible to miss after security. It stocks a comprehensive selection of international cosmetics, fragrance, spirits, and chocolates alongside Brazilian specialties. Although the duty-free tax exemption saves you the high Brazilian import taxes on luxury items, local products such as cachaça or Havaianas flip-flops are often priced higher here than in city supermarkets or markets. The ideal airport purchase is a high-end perfume, a bottle of single malt whisky, or a premium wine; these represent solid savings compared to city liquor stores.

For food, the airport features a solid mix of local and international chains. You can find Brazilian staples such as Pão de Queijo at Casa do Pão de Queijo, burgers at Pátio do Hambúrguer, and quick global options like McDonald's and KFC. For a more substantial sit-down meal with table service, the Viena Restaurant chain offers a menu of Brazilian and international cuisine.

Security Wait Times São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

Security screening in Brazil is strict but generally efficient. New automated tray return systems and body scanners have been installed in the newest checkpoints at Terminal 3 to speed up the process. The international-to-domestic connection point in Terminal 2 can be a bottleneck during the morning rush. During off-peak periods, clearing security and passport control is quick. For international flights, you must also factor in exit immigration control administered by the Federal Police. Automated e-Gates are available for Brazilian citizens and, in some cases, eligible foreigners from the USA, Canada, and other approved nations, which massively cuts wait times.

💡 Travel Tip: The international departure rush in Terminal 3 happens late at night, driven by long-haul flights to the US, Europe, and the Middle East departing around 11:00 PM. Arriving at the airport 3 hours before these flights is essential, as passport control lines can swell suddenly.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The drop-off zone for departures is on the upper level of the access road. Look for the signs corresponding to your airline's terminal. Security strictly enforces a rule against unattended vehicles; you must stay with your car unless you are actively unloading luggage. The arrivals pick-up zone is located on the ground level. The best option for drivers waiting for arriving passengers is the free cell phone parking lot, located alongside the main access avenue just before reaching the terminals. Do not circle the terminal repeatedly, as traffic officers will force you to move on.

Flight Routes and Airlines at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

The airport is the Brazilian fortress hub for LATAM Airlines, which operates an extensive network of domestic routes from here as well as international flights to North America, Europe, and within South America. Gol Linhas Aéreas is the second major operator, running its international structure from Terminal 2 alongside numerous domestic frequencies. Popular domestic destinations include Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, and Porto Alegre. The busiest international corridors are to Buenos Aires, Santiago, Miami, New York (JFK), Madrid, Lisbon, and Paris (CDG). Emirates and Turkish Airlines operate their respective flag-ship routes connecting to Dubai and Istanbul, providing key gateways into Asia and Africa.

Car Rental at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

Renting a car gives you unmatched flexibility to explore São Paulo state and beyond. All major rental counters are located in the Arrivals lobby of Terminals 2 and 3. Companies operating here include Localiza, Movida, Unidas, Avis, and Hertz. Economy vehicles suited for city driving, compact SUVs, and executive sedans are readily available. If you plan to drive to the coast or countryside, booking a flex-fuel vehicle is standard.

👉 Book your rental car in advance through our comparison tool to lock in the best rates and ensure availability during peak travel periods.

Counter hours are typically 24 hours in Terminal 3, but always confirm the return procedure if you need to drop off keys outside business hours. Most companies will ask for a credit card, a valid driver's license from your home country, and your passport. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended alongside your native license.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport Taxi Services

Guarucoop holds the exclusive official taxi concession at the airport. Head to their clearly marked white kiosks inside the baggage claim exit to pay a pre-determined fare to your destination. This is much safer than hailing random cars curbside. Fares are based on zones; a trip to Itaim Bibi or Jardins averages around $25 USD. You can pay with credit or debit card, or with cash in Reais.

Private Car Services at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

For business travelers and family groups, private driver services provide a premium, stress-free alternative. Vendors like Black Lane meet you with a name board in the arrival hall and assist with luggage. Fixed prices are agreed upon during the booking, meaning you are not affected by traffic surges or route changes. These pre-booked services are highly recommended given that you face no language barriers with drivers who typically speak English.

Bus Services at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

The Airport Bus Service offers plush, coach-style buses connecting the airport to key business districts. A popular line connects Guarulhos directly to Congonhas Airport (CGH), which is invaluable for connecting passengers. Other lines run to Tatuapé Metro Station and Barra Funda Bus Terminal. Fares average $8–$10 USD, and you can buy tickets at the counters just outside customs or directly from the driver. Boarding platforms are clearly signed directly outside the terminal exits.

Hotel Shuttles

Most airport-adjacent hotels run complimentary shuttle services. The Marriott São Paulo Airport and the Sleep Inn Guarulhos have dedicated vans. If you are staying at a hotel slightly further away, like the Pullman São Paulo Guarulhos Airport, their shuttle runs on a timed schedule and must be confirmed with the hotel in advance. The hotel shuttle pickup lane is well marked, located outside of the public taxi and bus zones.

Places to explore near São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

While Guarulhos itself is often overlooked as an industrial suburb, its location serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the São Paulo macro-region.

• Guarulhos Town Center (15 min drive): Visit the Bosque Maia park, the largest green area in the city, perfect for a post-flight stretch.
• Avenida Paulista (40-50 min drive): The bustling symbol of modern São Paulo, home to MASP (São Paulo Museum of Art) and endless dining.
• Serra da Cantareira State Park (30 min drive): A massive urban rainforest reserve. Hike to Pedra Grande for a panoramic view of the entire megacity skyline.
• Campos do Jordão (2-hour drive): A high-altitude Swiss-style winter resort town, famous for its European architecture and cozy fondues.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Guarulhos

The climate is subtropical, with hot, wet summers and mild, drier winters.

Essential Travel Tips

👉 Arrival Time: Arrive 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international departure, especially for those late-evening long-hauls out of Terminal 3.
👉 Currency: You need Brazilian Reais (BRL) locally. While cards are widely accepted, you will often need cash for small street vendors or the official parking lot machines. The airport ATMs dispense Reais at fair rates.
👉 Language: Portuguese is the official language. Do not rely on Spanish being spoken universally. English is spoken only at the main information desks and airline counters inside the airport. Download an offline translator.
👉 Fuel Stations: If returning a rental car, the nearest gas station is the Auto Posto Cumbica BR, located directly on Rodovia Hélio Smidt, less than 1 km before the airport entrance.

About the City

Guarulhos is the second-most populous city in São Paulo state, historically a working-class industrial hub. Today, it is a sprawling city defined by its proximity to the international airport. While it primarily functions as a logistical powerhouse, it has hidden cultural gems including the Adamastor Cultural Center and a growing gastronomic scene, particularly noted for Italian-Brazilian rodízios (all-you-can-eat) and authentic Japanese cuisine. With excellent highway connections, staying in Guarulhos is often cheaper and faster for the airport than staying in central São Paulo, establishing it as a practical base for travelers in transit.

Start Your Journey at São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport

As the main artery connecting Brazil to the world, São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport can be overwhelming if you arrive unprepared. Knowing which terminal you are passing through, the fastest rail link, or the best executive bus can save you hours of time. Whether you need an economy car to explore the state's beautiful countryside or a premium sedan to take you straight to a business meeting, the key to a smooth trip is preparation. Book your rental car today for guaranteed availability and the best rates, ensuring your Brazilian journey begins the moment the wheels touch down.