How to get from Fortaleza to Sao Luis, Brazil (4 Best Ways)

You can get from Fortaleza to Sao Luis by bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car.

The cheapest and most popular option is by bus, which costs USD 83 and takes between 19 and 20 hours.

The fastest way is taking a flight, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

My adventures through Brazil’s vibrant cities and serene landscapes have taught me the logistics of getting around.

Transportation Options

1. Bus

Journey Duration: 19-20 hours

This mode of transportation offers a transfer in 19 to 20 hours, depending on the bus you pick. Tickets start at USD 83!

You have three buses to choose from; however, your options are limited since there aren’t many departures.

Expresso Guanabara operates this route, and you can choose between an Economy Bus and Reclining Seat Buses. All of them travel during the night for most of the trip, so if you decide to travel by bus, at least you won’t be wasting so much of the daytime on transfers.

It is quite a long journey, but thankfully the buses are modern and provide everything you need for a smooth and comfortable trip.

Economy Bus Schedule

The table below displays the economy bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

Departure	Arrival	Duration	Price
12:30pm	08:16am	19h 46m	$113
06:30pm	02:43pm	20h 13m	$104
10:30pm	04:50pm	18h 20m	$83

120 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 120 Reclining Seats Bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

Departure	Arrival	Duration	Price
12:30pm	08:16am	19h 46m	$113
06:30pm	02:43pm	20h 13m	$104
10:30pm	04:50pm	18h 20m	$83

160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 160 Reclining Seats Bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

Departure	Arrival	Duration	Price
12:30pm	08:16am	19h 46m	$113
06:30pm	02:43pm	20h 13m	$104
10:30pm	04:50pm	18h 20m	$83

2. Private Transfer

Journey Duration: ~14 hours

A private transfer is a good alternative if you’d rather travel by land but still want to be comfortable on this lengthy journey.

Many travel agencies offer and can arrange these services with a wide selection of comfortable vehicles!

Based on how many people travel with you, pick the vehicle that fits your needs and makes the price worthwhile! It might come out to be way more expensive, but once you split the cost, it should turn out to be reasonable.

Get picked up and taken to your exact location, have all the luggage space to yourself, and get from Fortaleza to Sao Luis much faster!

3. Flight

Journey Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

The trip is definitely worthwhile, even though it is the most expensive alternative.

However, you will arrive in Sao Luis in 1 hour and 20 minutes and reduce the hassle of traveling by bus, especially on such long distances.

Gol Transportes Aéreos operates one daily Economy Flight, so if you’re choosing this option to get from Fortaleza to Sao Luis, it’s best to book your tickets online right away!

4. Rental Car

Journey Duration: ~14 hours

Although it is not a commonly used method for traveling, it’s still something to consider!

In addition, renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and reach Sao Luis much more quickly than using public transportation.

Considering the few stops you might make along the way, the drive takes around 14 hours. But even if you decide to take it slower, at least you can enjoy the road trip and have the freedom to be in charge of your journey!

There are countless vehicle options, and they are all very reasonably priced!

So, for a bit of adventure, rent a car in Fortaleza and head to Sao Luis!

Best day tours in Sao Luis

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions