How to get to Boa Vista

Located in the northern part of Brazil, the capital of Roraima state attracts travellers with its unique radial layout and its status as the gateway to the Amazon. If you are planning to travel to Boa Vista, it is important to know that despite its remote location, this city possesses well-established transport connections with neighbouring regions. We have gathered current information on how to reach Boa Vista by plane, bus, or car, so you can choose the optimal route to begin your adventure.

The fastest way to reach this remote corner of the country is via Boa Vista Airport (BVB), named after Atlas Brasil Cantanhede. This air hub serves regular flights and is a key transport node for the state of Roraima. Most often, aircraft arrive here from Manaus and the Brazilian capital, so when planning your route, it is worth considering possible transfers.

The terminal building is located very close to the city limits, allowing travellers to save significant time on the journey after landing. The terminal infrastructure is quite modern, and the complex itself is well connected to the city centre, so getting to your hotel or major attractions will be effortless.

For those who prefer to travel by train, it is worth noting that there is no railway connection to Boa Vista. The city does not have a train station, and the region's complex landscape and distance from the central districts of Brazil have not allowed for the development of a passenger rail network here.

Instead of a train, tourists are advised to use alternative methods of transport. Air travel remains the quickest option to reach the city, while for those who wish to observe the changing landscapes from a window, intercity bus routes are available.

For travellers moving within the country, the key route is the journey from Manaus. This is the only major Brazilian city connected to Boa Vista by a high-quality paved road — the federal highway BR-174. The trip through picturesque yet uniform landscapes takes an average of about 11–12 hours. Carriers usually use modern buses with air conditioning and reclining seats, making the long journey through the tropics quite comfortable.

The geographical position of the Roraima state capital makes it an important hub for international bus connections. Bus services regularly arrive here from neighbouring countries: Guyana (specifically from Georgetown) and Venezuela (for example, from Ciudad Guayana). When planning such a trip, it is worth allocating extra time, as the journey duration (often 15–20 hours) depends heavily on the speed of border control procedures.

All intercity and international services arrive at the International Bus Terminal (Rodoviária Internacional de Boa Vista). The terminal is located in the western part of the city and offers passengers basic amenities, including luggage storage and cafes. From here, it is easy to reach the centre by taxi or urban transport.

The main flow of car travellers arrives in the city of Boa Vista from the direction of Manaus via the federal highway BR-174. This is a high-quality paved road that allows for good speed; however, drivers should consider an important nuance: the route crosses the territory of the Waimiri-Atroari reserve. On this section, approximately 200 kilometres long, there are absolutely no petrol stations or services, and travel at night is often restricted, so you should depart with a full tank and ample fuel reserves.

A trip from the Guyana side, from Georgetown, will be a true test of endurance. The distance between the cities is about 670 kilometres, but due to the specific road surface, travel time is difficult to predict. A significant part of the route passes along dirt roads, the condition of which critically depends on the weather: during the rainy season, it is practically impossible to pass here without a reliable off-road vehicle (4x4).

An alternative entry is possible through the border with Venezuela. The road from Ciudad Guayana (about 900 km) is distinguished by better surface quality compared to the Guyanese direction and passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Gran Sabana, making the long drive visually pleasant.

When planning a visit to this sunny destination, it is worth considering that you are heading to one of the hottest cities in the region. To ensure your holiday goes smoothly and your experience of the local culture leaves only pleasant memories, we have compiled several practical tips relevant for the capital of Roraima.

• Weather conditions and clothing. Proximity to the equator guarantees high humidity and heat all year round. Opt for loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics in light shades, such as cotton or linen. Sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+) and a head covering are mandatory companions for any walk, even in cloudy weather.
• Transport. Thanks to the thoughtful radial layout and wide avenues, navigating here is quite simple. However, due to the intense heat, walking long distances can be exhausting. It is recommended to use taxis or popular mobile apps for booking rides, as public transport is not always equipped with air conditioning.
• Health. Since the region borders the Amazon, carrying insect repellent is critically important, especially in the evening and when visiting parks. It is also strongly recommended to drink only bottled water to avoid digestive issues.
• Language barrier. The main language of communication is Portuguese; English is rarely understood here, even in tourist spots. Download an offline translator and a map of the area to your smartphone in advance. Learn a few basic phrases (for example, "obrigado" — thank you); local residents greatly appreciate such gestures of courtesy.
• Finances. Major shops, hotels, and restaurants accept bank cards without issues. However, for purchasing exotic fruits at markets or souvenirs, it is better to carry cash in Reals, preferably in small denominations, as finding change can sometimes be difficult.
• Water safety. City beaches on the Rio Branco, such as Praia Grande, are very popular, but swimming should be done with caution. Currents can be strong, and stingrays are sometimes found in wild, unmonitored areas. Choose only official leisure zones where lifeguards are on duty.
• Best time for walks. During the day, city life slows down due to the heat. Plan your main activities for the early morning or the evening after 17:00. It is at this time that the Orla Taumanan waterfront comes alive: cafes open, music plays, and one can enjoy the pleasant coolness from the river.

By following these simple recommendations, you will be able to comfortably enjoy the atmosphere of the city, its unique architecture, and the renowned hospitality of the people of the north.