 Re: transport options
Air is really the best option unless you have lots of time, speak at least some Portuguese and don't mind delays plus the occasional robbery. Roads through the interior are dangerous and sometimes impassable, particularly in Amazonas. Bus service exists but buses sometimes get stopped by bandits who clean out everyone on board. Kidnapping is a possibility, especially in and around Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
That said, I've personally traveled by bus, train and "combi" (VW microbus used as a kind of mini-bus in Rio) without any real problems. I also rented a car and drove from Rio to Cabo Frio and Buzios, though friends tell me that's not a safe practice. The only problem I had, other than a few kilometers of bad roads, was a cop looking to extort a little money from the turistas. I ended up giving him something small and he left me alone. I think the fact that I spoke a little Portuguese helped.
Brazil has train service but there's little money for upkeep so facilities can be a little rough. The first class inter-city buses are well appointed and cheap compared to air travel but be careful. In addition to bandits, there are pickpockets and thieves in and around the terminals. City buses are favorites among thieves, too.
Regards,
Robert |