transport options

[steffi]

hi
can anyone suggest the best way to travel from Iguassu falls to the Amazon, apart from by plane? thanks
steffi

[Baianinho]

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

[d360]

My impression form traveling wasn't as bad as Roberts but we all have different experiences. The trains I took have always been safe and fairly well maintained. Thiefs are everywhere but I'd say Brazil is no worst than many others.

[travelnotes]

If you don't want to fly, bus travel is the way to go in Brazil.

It takes a long time to get around the country but it's a great way to really appreciate its size and diversity.

[Essential]

Originally Posted by d360

My impression form traveling wasn't as bad as Roberts but we all have different experiences. The trains I took have always been safe and fairly well maintained. Thiefs are everywhere but I'd say Brazil is no worst than many others.

i do agree with d360 here. i've travelled a lot till now and i have to admit that i've had bad experiences almost every place i went to, and some places against which i was actually warned, well, the trips in those places went more than fine. so it'll depend on how careful you are and i guess it might be a question of luck too :p