How to get to Umuarama

Umuarama is a hospitable city in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, known for its developed infrastructure and the honorary title of the "Capital of Friendship". If you have decided to visit Umuarama, it will be useful to plan your route in advance, as this regional hub has good connections with neighbouring areas. We have gathered up-to-date information on how to reach Umuarama using various modes of transport, including flights, intercity buses, and cars.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is by air. Umuarama has its own regional airport, Orlando de Carvalho (UMU). It receives regular flights connecting the city with major transport hubs in the state of Paraná, particularly with the state capital, Curitiba. This is an excellent choice for those who wish to minimise travel time.

If tickets for direct flights are unavailable or the schedule does not suit you, you can consider alternative options by flying into neighbouring cities. Travellers often choose airports in the cities of Maringá or Cascavel, which boast a wider route network and receive aircraft from many corners of Brazil. From these airports, you can comfortably reach Umuarama via a rental car or intercity bus, enjoying the scenic views along the way.

A direct journey to Umuarama by train is not possible, as the city does not have a railway station for passengers. Rail transport in this part of Brazil is practically not used for regular passenger services, giving way to road transport.

The nearest major settlements, such as Cianorte and Cascavel, also do not offer options for arrival by train. Tourists are advised to plan their route using comfortable intercity buses or a rental car, which will allow you to reach your destination while admiring the landscapes of the state of Paraná.

Bus services in the state of Paraná are organised to a high standard, making the trip to Umuarama a pleasant and untiring part of your journey. If you are departing from the neighbouring city of Cianorte, the road will take only about an hour, covering a distance of approximately 55 kilometres. This is the fastest and most scenic route, allowing you to observe the changing landscapes of the Brazilian countryside from the window of a comfortable cabin.

For tourists travelling from the west or south of the region, there are regular services from larger transport hubs. The journey from the city of Cascavel, covering about 170 kilometres, will take approximately three hours, while the trip from Guaíra (130 km) will require just over two hours. All intercity buses arrive at the city's main bus terminal, from where it is easy to reach the centre by taxi or local transport.

Travelling by car will allow you to explore the state of Paraná at your own pace and enjoy the views of the Brazilian interior. The shortest route runs from Cianorte: a trip of 55 kilometres along the PR-323 highway will take less than an hour. If you are heading from the city of Guaíra, expect to cover about 130 kilometres, which usually requires slightly over two hours of time.

Another important highway connects the destination with a major transport hub — Cascavel; the distance of approximately 170 kilometres can be comfortably driven in three hours. Most tourists prefer renting a car for the flexibility of the schedule, but intercity taxi services are also available, although the cost of such a trip will be significantly higher than the price of a bus ticket.

Preparing for your trip to Umuarama will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully enjoy the atmosphere of the "Capital of Friendship". We have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will make your journey through this cosy corner of the state of Paraná comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate in the region is subtropical, so in summer (December to March), opt for light clothing made from natural fabrics and comfortable shoes. If your trip is planned for the winter months (June-August) or you enjoy evening walks, be sure to bring a sweater or a light jacket, as the temperature can drop noticeably.
2. Transport: To move around the city, it is most convenient to use popular taxi mobile apps (such as Uber or 99) — it is affordable and safe. If you plan to travel outside the city, renting a car will be the best solution, giving you freedom of movement.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Brazilian Real. Bank cards are accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants; however, cash may be required at markets or in small eateries. It is best to withdraw money from ATMs located inside bank branches or shopping centres.
4. Health and Safety: Although Umuarama is calmer than the metropolises, observe basic precautions: do not display expensive gadgets on the street and keep an eye on your bags. Also, do not forget sun protection and insect repellents, especially if you plan to relax in nature.
5. Communication: The official language is Portuguese, and finding an English speaker on the street can be difficult. We recommend downloading an offline translator and a map of the city to your smartphone in advance, as well as learning a few basic greeting phrases.
6. Local Etiquette: Brazil is famous for its hospitality. It is customary to shake hands upon meeting, and the universal "thumbs up" gesture (joinha) will help you express gratitude or agreement in any situation. Be polite and smile — the locals will respond in kind.
7. What to Avoid: It is strongly recommended not to drink tap water, as its composition may be unfamiliar to a tourist's system. Always buy bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
8. Additional Tip: Pay attention to electrical sockets. In the state of Paraná, the mains voltage is usually 127 V (unlike the 220 V standard in the UAE), and sockets have a specific standard (Type N). To charge your gadgets without problems, it is better to purchase a universal adapter in advance.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and focus on exploring the culture and attractions of the city. May your journey to Umuarama be easy and leave only positive impressions!