How to get to Guarapuava

Guarapuava is a colourful city in the state of Paraná, located in southern Brazil and known for its natural parks and rich cultural heritage. When planning how to get to Guarapuava, travellers can choose the most convenient route: take a domestic flight, travel by intercity bus, or embark on a journey by car. Regardless of the mode of transport, the road to this hospitable region will be a comfortable start to your acquaintance with local attractions.

Getting to Guarapuava by plane has become easier thanks to the local Tancredo Thomas de Faria Airport (IATA code: GPB). This small but regionally significant transport hub receives regular commercial flights, connecting the city with Brazil's major aviation hubs.

The main carrier serving this destination is Azul airlines. Most often, direct or connecting flights are operated from the city of Campinas (Viracopos Airport) or the state capital, Curitiba. Tourists are advised to check the schedule and book tickets in advance, as flight frequency may vary.

As an alternative option, you can consider flying to the Afonso Pena International Airport in Curitiba, which receives many more flights from all over the country and abroad. The distance from Curitiba to Guarapuava is about 260 kilometres, which can be covered by a rental car or a comfortable bus.

It is not possible to reach Guarapuava by train, as there is no passenger railway service in the city. The railway network in this region of Brazil is focused primarily on cargo transportation and is not used for tourist routes.

For a comfortable journey, it is recommended to use the extensive network of intercity buses or rent a car. The roads provide convenient connections to neighbouring cities and the state capital, allowing you to enjoy scenic views along the way.

The bus network in Brazil is distinguished by developed infrastructure and convenience, so travelling to Guarapuava by land is an excellent chance to enjoy the nature of the state of Paraná. One of the key transit hubs for the trip is Ponta Grossa: comfortable buses cover 165 kilometres of the journey in approximately 2.5 hours.

In addition, stable connections have been established with other regional centres. A trip from União da Vitória will take about 3 hours (distance — 170 km). The route from Pato Branco lasts approximately 3.5 hours, during which passengers travel about 190 kilometres.

Travelling by car to Guarapuava allows you to plan your schedule independently and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Brazil. It is most convenient to get there from the city of Ponta Grossa: a trip of 162 km will take about 2.5 hours. The route from Pato Branco is slightly longer — 188 km of the way can be calmly covered in approximately 2.7 hours.

If you are departing from União da Vitória, expect to spend about 3.1 hours on the road, covering a distance of 211 km. Roads in this region are usually in good condition, but it is worth being prepared for possible toll booths. A taxi for such long distances can result in a significant sum, so many travellers prefer to rent a car for greater freedom of movement.

A trip to Guarapuava is an opportunity to enjoy the unique climate and natural beauties of the south, which differ greatly from tropical stereotypes. To ensure your journey through Brazil runs smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate: Guarapuava is considered one of the coldest cities in the state of Paraná. If you are travelling in winter (from June to August), be sure to bring a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves — frosts are possible here. In summer, the weather is mild and pleasant, but evenings can be cool, so layering your clothing is the best choice. Comfortable, broken-in shoes will be required for walking in the parks.
2. Transport: Although the city has public transport and taxi apps operate (such as Uber or 99), to see the main natural attractions, such as the Salto São Francisco waterfall, it is highly recommended to rent a car. Many beautiful places are located outside the city limits, where buses run rarely.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Most hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets accept credit cards without issues. However, if you plan to visit small shops, markets, or remote natural parks, always keep a small supply of cash with you.
4. Health and Safety: Guarapuava is a relatively calm and safe city, but standard precautions are advisable: do not leave belongings unattended and avoid unlit streets at night. When visiting forest areas and waterfalls, be sure to use insect repellent and sunscreen.
5. Communication: The main language is Portuguese. English is not widely spoken here, even in the service sector. We recommend downloading an offline translator on your smartphone in advance and learning a few basic phrases ("Obrigado" — thank you, "Bom dia" — good morning); this will greatly endear you to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: The residents of the region are very friendly and open. Handshakes are common upon meeting, while among acquaintances, hugs or kisses on the cheek are customary. A popular gesture is the "thumbs up," signifying agreement, gratitude, or a greeting.
7. What to Avoid: Do not drink tap water, even if locals say it is clean; it is better for tourists to buy bottled water. Also, try not to plan complex nature routes on rainy days — dirt roads can become difficult to traverse.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to set aside time to visit the Entre Rios district. This is a colony of Danube Swabians, where unique German architecture, culture, and, of course, cuisine have been preserved. Trying the local craft beer and traditional German dishes here is worthwhile for every tourist.

Following these simple tips will help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. Guarapuava is a hospitable region, ready to surprise travellers with its cultural diversity and magnificent landscapes.