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Explore the Best One-Way Routes: Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro

Find everything you need to know for your one-way car rental journey.

Can I rent a car from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for BR residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).

    Notes: Local Renter Requirements: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 will incur an additional fee of US$ 18.09 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)

    Notes: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 will incur an additional fee of US$ 18.09 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 72/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 80/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 155-263US$ 0.00-164.25US$ 215-342Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 178-263US$ 94.65-164.25US$ 263-342Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 178-210US$ 94.65-98.20US$ 263-336Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 189-312US$ 0.00-164.25US$ 238-572Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 295-295US$ 94.65-163.53US$ 415-415Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 242-242US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 356-356Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way rental fees: Always check if the rental company charges a one-way fee and factor it into your total budget.
  • Distance limits or penalties: Confirm whether there are restrictions on the distance you can drive without additional fees.
  • Vehicle availability and selection: Ensure that your preferred vehicle type is available for one-way routes.
  • Cross-border rentals: Verify any restrictions if crossing state or international borders.
  • Flexible return options: Understand the specific terms regarding vehicle return timing and location policies.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route strategically: Outline your stops and use navigation tools to optimize travel time and fuel efficiency.
  • Research fuel policies: Be clear about whether the rental company provides a full-to-full or other policy for refueling.
  • Understand insurance coverage: Double-check the insurance packages included and consider additional coverage for peace of mind.
  • Be informed about local regulations: Know the driving rules specific to Sao Paulo and Rio De Janeiro for a smooth journey.
  • Confirm drop-off location accessibility: Verify the ease of access to your final drop-off point in Rio De Janeiro to avoid last-minute delays.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel before returning the car to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof.

Plan refueling stops in advance to avoid running out of fuel.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the route is approximately BRL 5.50 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated before starting the journey.

Use air conditioning sparingly to reduce fuel usage.

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Sao Paulo Parking

Parking in Sao Paulo can be expensive; expect rates of BRL 10-20 per hour in central areas.

Look for public parking garages for more affordable options.

Avoid leaving valuables in the car.

Rio De Janeiro Parking

Parking near tourist areas like Copacabana can be challenging and costly.

Use designated parking areas to avoid fines.

Consider using valet services at hotels if staying overnight.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like 'Parking Rio' and 'ParkMe' can help locate and reserve parking spots.

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Tolls and FasTrak

BR-116 (Rodovia Presidente Dutra) is a toll road connecting Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Toll charges vary but average around BRL 15-20 per toll plaza.

Keep cash or a compatible toll pass for payment.

Toll Payment Options

Accepted payment methods include cash and electronic toll passes.

Ensure your rental car is equipped with a toll pass if planning to use express lanes.

Verify toll charges with the rental company to avoid unexpected fees.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic Routes Between Sao Paulo and Rio De Janeiro:
Coastal Route via Santos and Paraty
Scenic Coastal Drive 8-10 hours

This route follows the BR-101 highway, offering breathtaking coastal views and access to charming seaside towns such as Paraty.

Santos , Caraguatatuba , Paraty
Mountain Route via Campos do Jordão
Scenic Mountain Drive 10-12 hours

An elevation-rich route through the picturesque mountains, passing high-altitude towns like Campos do Jordão.

Campos do Jordão , Taubaté , Resende
Direct Highway Route via BR-116
Rapid Highway Drive 6-7 hours

The most direct route, using well-maintained highways for an efficient drive.

Guarulhos , Volta Redonda , Nova Iguaçu
Road Trip Planning Tips

Fuel Arrangements: Ensure you refuel at major cities as gas stations are sparse in scenic routes.

Route Familiarity: Plan your route in advance and check for any road closures on BR highways.

Timing the Trip: Avoid traveling during public holidays or peak hours to minimize congestion.

Accommodation Stops: Book hotels in advance, especially in tourist-heavy locations like Paraty.

Insurance Coverage: Verify car insurance is valid for one-way rentals and long-distance travel.

Rental Costs: Check for hidden fees for one-way rental and out-of-state surcharges.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Learn about rental companies suitable for one-way trips from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$$HighNationwide Extensive variety of vehicles , Frequent promotions and discounts
Localiza$$MediumHigh in Brazil Specialized in Brazilian market , Flexible fuel options
Movida$MediumWidespread in Brazil User-friendly booking system , Affordable one-way rentals
Unidas$$HighNationwide Modern vehicle options , Supports youth drivers
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers operate 24/7, but verify specific timings before your visit.

Location:

Available within both city centers and near major transportation hubs.

Shuttle Service:

Free shuttle service from select pickup points to rental centers.

Road Assistance:

Roadside assistance is often included in the rental package.

Pro Tips for Sao Paulo - Guarulhos Airport(GRU) Car Rentals

Book early to secure the vehicle that fits your trip needs and consider prepaid options for cost savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to rent a car from Sao Paulo and return it in Rio De Janeiro?

Yes, most car rental companies located in Sao Paulo offer the option for one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up the car in Sao Paulo and return it to a location in Rio de Janeiro.

Are there additional fees for one-way car rentals?

Generally, one-way car rentals may include an additional surcharge known as a drop-off fee, which compensates the rental company for relocating the vehicle back to the primary location. Check with your chosen rental provider for specific charges.

What are the driving conditions like between Sao Paulo and Rio De Janeiro?

The route between these cities is well-maintained, particularly along the BR-116 highway. Be prepared for tolls and consider verifying weather conditions, especially during rainy seasons.

What documents are required for renting a car in Brazil?

Typically, you will need a valid driver's license, an International Driving Permit (if applicable), your passport, and a credit card for payment and deposit purposes.

Are there popular stops or attractions along this route?

Yes, popular stops include Santos, a coastal city known for its beaches, and Penedo, a charming village with strong Scandinavian influences offering scenic beauty and cultural experiences.

Ready to Book Your Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ