Arriving on an international flight at São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport (GRU) and connecting to a domestic flight from Congonhas (CGH) can be confusing, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the city’s dual-airport setup. This type of transfer means exiting GRU, crossing a busy metropolis, and navigating immigration, customs, baggage claim, and traffic — all while racing the clock. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know to manage this connection smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.
Ultimate gide to travel from GRU to CGH!
Step 1: Arrival and immigration at GRU (Guarulhos International Airport)
- All international passengers must go through immigration at GRU
- Typical wait time: 30 minutes to over 1 hour
Once your international flight touches down at GRU, your first stop will be immigration. This is where you’ll present your passport and any required visa, depending on your nationality. Even if you’re just connecting to another Brazilian city, you must go through passport control here — there’s no “transit zone” between airports.
Immigration wait times can vary widely, typically ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and number of international arrivals. In some cases, foreigners who are permanent residents in Brazil may be allowed to use shorter lines, often the same as those for Brazilian citizens, though this can vary by staffing and discretion.
Using Brazil’s automated e-gates (available to Brazilian citizens and some Mercosur nationals) can also help speed up the process. Otherwise, arriving near the front of the cabin or heading directly to immigration without delay can help you avoid long queues.
Step 2: Baggage Claim and Customs
- All passengers must collect baggage at GRU and recheck it at CGH for the domestic flight.
- Time estimate: Customs process takes approximately 10–20 minutes.
After clearing immigration at São Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), you’ll proceed to baggage claim, where you’ll wait for your checked luggage. Monitors will show your flight’s assigned carousel. On average, this process takes 15 to 30 minutes, though it can take longer during peak arrival times or if multiple large aircraft land at once.
Next, you’ll head to customs, which has two channels. The green lane for passengers with nothing to declare. The red lane for those carrying goods that must be declared.
Even if you choose the green lane, random bag scans or inspections are common. This part usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how busy the terminal is and how many passengers are being screened. Importantly, you will not have automatic baggage transfer to CGH. You must claim your bags at GRU and personally take them to CGH, where you’ll recheck them for your domestic flight.
Step 3: Travelling from GRU to CGH, Navigating Across São Paulo
- GRU to CGH ride: Traffic makes the 35 km trip unpredictable.
- Time estimate: 45–60 mins normally; 90+ mins in rush hours.
- Option 1: Ride-Share Apps (Uber, 99)
- Option 2: Official Airport Taxis
- Option 3: Private Transfer
- Option 4: Airport Shuttle Bus
Now comes the most critical part of your connection: getting from Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) to Congonhas Airport (CGH). While the two airports are only about 35 kilometers (22 miles) apart, the traffic in São Paulo can make this transfer unpredictable and stressful—especially if you’re working with limited time between flights.
Travel Time from GRU to CGH
Under ideal conditions, the drive from GRU to CGH takes about 45 to 60 minutes. However, São Paulo is infamous for its congestion, and during rush hours (typically 7:00–10:00 AM and 4:30–7:30 PM), that same trip can easily stretch to 90 minutes or more. If your layover falls within those hours, plan accordingly and give yourself extra time.
Transfer Options from GRU to CGH
Here are the main ways to make the airport-to-airport transfer:
Ride-Share Apps (Uber, 99)
Apps like Uber and 99 (a local Brazilian ride-share option) are among the most popular and convenient choices for getting from GRU to CGH. They allow you to easily track your driver. Most drivers are familiar with the GRU→CGH transfer and take the most efficient route based on traffic.
However, be prepared for some chaos at the pick-up zone. GRU’s ride-share pick-up areas can be confusing, crowded, and disorganized. You’ll often find long lines of cars, drivers parked irregularly, and travelers walking around looking for their rides, especially during busy periods. Each terminal at GRU has a different designated ride-share pick-up area, so it’s important to pay attention to the instructions in your app to avoid waiting in the wrong spot.
From GRU to CGH via Official Airport Taxis
At GRU, official airport taxis can be arranged through dedicated booths located inside the arrivals area of each terminal.
These booths are operated by authorized companies and offer fixed-fare rides to various destinations, including Congonhas Airport (CGH). This service is ideal for travelers who want a clear, upfront price without worrying about meters or ride-share apps. Once you confirm your destination and pay at the counter—either in cash or by card—you’ll receive a printed voucher and be directed to your assigned taxi just outside the terminal. The process is generally well-organized and efficient, and staff at the booths are used to helping international travelers, often with basic English.
Private Transfer from GRU to CGH
If you’re short on time, unfamiliar with São Paulo, or simply want peace of mind, booking a private transfer in advance is a great option. Many companies offer airport-to-airport services with professional drivers who monitor your flight and wait for you inside the terminal with a sign. While this is the most expensive option, it’s also the most comfortable and stress-free, especially after a long international flight.
Private transfers are also a smart choice if you’re traveling with large or heavy luggage, or if you’re in a group. Most providers offer a range of vehicle types, including executive sedans, SUVs, and vans, which can easily accommodate multiple passengers and oversized baggage.
Airport Shuttle Bus (Least Common)
There are inter-airport buses that run between GRU and CGH, operated by companies like Airport Bus Service (EMTU). These buses are safe, comfortable, and affordable, making them a good option for budget-conscious travelers. However, they operate on fixed schedules, which may not align well with your arrival time—especially if you’re in a rush, arriving late at night, or dealing with delays. The journey can take 90 minutes or more, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way.
It’s also worth noting that finding the bus stop at GRU can be confusing, particularly for first-time visitors. Signage is limited, and the bus departure points are not always clearly marked inside the terminal. If you choose this option, give yourself extra time to locate the correct pick-up spot, or ask airport staff for help.
Step 4: Arrival and Check-In at CGH
- Full check-in required at CGH: Re-check bags, show ID/passport, and go through security.
- Busy periods: CGH is compact but crowded during weekday peaks and holidays.
- Arrival time: Be there at least 1 hour before your flight; more during busy times.
Once you arrive at Congonhas Airport (CGH) after transferring from GRU, you’ll need to start the check-in process from scratch—just like at any domestic airport. There is no transit area between the two airports, so this step is required for all passengers, even if you’re continuing on the same airline.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Present your ID or passport at the airline counter or self-service kiosk. (Brazilian citizens can use a national ID; foreign travelers should use their passport)
- Re-check your luggage, even if you already checked it in at your departure airport. (unless you’re traveling with carry-on only)
- Proceed through domestic security screening, where you’ll pass your hand luggage through an x-ray and may be asked to remove belts, electronics, or liquids
CGH is much smaller and more compact than GRU, which makes it easier to navigate. However, it still gets very busy during weekday mornings and evenings, as it’s a key airport for business travel within Brazil. Fridays, Mondays, and holidays can also be congested, with longer wait times for both check-in and security.
Most domestic airlines recommend arriving at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, but if you’ve already done your transfer from GRU and are just checking in, try to be at CGH at least 1 hour before your flight—more if it’s a peak time. If you’re cutting it close, head straight to the check-in counter and let the staff know you’re short on time; they may be able to expedite your process.
How much time is required for transfer between GRU and CGH airports
Connecting from Guarulhos (GRU) to Congonhas (CGH) in São Paulo can be time-consuming due to traffic and the lack of direct transfer. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the estimated time needed for this connection, from international arrival to domestic check-in.
1. Arrival at GRU (International Flight). Customs & Immigration: 30–60 minutes. Includes passport control, customs, possible baggage inspection.
2. Baggage Claim at GRU. Claim & Exit: 15–30 minutes. You must collect your bags manually (no automatic transfer to CGH).
3. Transfer from GRU to CGH. Drive Time: 45–90 minutes. Depends heavily on São Paulo traffic. Worst during rush hours: 7–10 AM and 4:30–7:30 PM.
4. Check-in at CGH (Domestic Flight). Check-in & Baggage Recheck: 15–30 minutes. You’ll start from scratch: show ID/passport and recheck luggage.
5. Security Screening at CGH. Security Process: 10–20 minutes. Hand luggage x-ray, may need to remove electronics or liquids.
Total Estimated Time 2 hr 35 min – 4 hr 30 min
Final Tips (By real Travellers)
- If possible, book a seat near the front of the plane on your flight to GRU to be among the first to disembark. This can help you get ahead in the immigration line and save valuable time during peak arrival hours.
- Avoid duty-free or restroom breaks until after you collect your bags and clear customs.
- If traveling with carry-on only, you can bypass baggage claim entirely and head straight to customs, cutting down your time significantly.
- If possible, fly on a single itinerary that includes both your international and domestic legs. This gives you more protection if delays occur—if you’re traveling on the same airline and miss your connection at CGH, the airline may offer to rebook you on a later flight from CGH to your final destination at no additional cost.
- If you’re using a digital boarding pass, make sure it’s downloaded and accessible before you go through security, in case your mobile signal is weak.
- Always check your visa requirements — you are officially entering Brazil when landing at GRU.