How to get from Ouro Preto to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (3 Best Ways)

AnaMarija Mishachkovska 24 Oct 2022 Last updated: 4 Apr 2025 2 min read No comments


You can get from Ouro Preto to Rio de Janeiro by bus, private transfer, or rental car.

The most popular and cheapest option is to travel by bus,ย which costs USD 68 and takes between 7.5 and 8.5 hours.

The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 6 hours.

Having explored Brazil’s diverse regions, from the Amazon rainforests to the cultural richness of Salvador, I’ve become well-versed in its various modes of transport.

In this guide, I will explain all the ways to travel and share some of my best tips for efficiently traveling across Brazil!

Getting to Rio De Janeiro from Ouro Preto

MethodTimePrice
Bus~8.5 hrs+$68
Private Transfer~6 hrs
Rental Car~6 hrs

1. Bus

Journey Duration: 8 hours 20 minutes

Since the distance from Ouro Preto to Rio is quite long, the bus might be your best option, as it is affordable.

Util is the operator that runs two types of buses on this route, with prices starting at USD 68.

You can choose between an Economy Bus and a 120 Reclining Seats Bus, which offer similar comfort.

Since the bus might make several stops along the way, it might take almost eight hours to reach Rio de Janeiro, but for those who aren’t in a hurry, this shouldn’t be a problem!

Bus tickets usually sell out quickly, so you should purchase them online in advance. Check the bus schedule to ensure your desired seat is available!

Economy Bus Schedule

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

DepartureArrivalDurationPrice
10:00am06:40pm8h 40m$68
09:30pm05:20am7h 50m$71

120 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

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

DepartureArrivalDurationPrice
10:00am06:40pm8h 40m$68
09:30pm05:10am7h 40m$71

2. Private Transfer

Journey Duration: 5 hours 55 minutes

This is a comfortable and cost-effective means of transportation for groups traveling together, whether you are staying in Rio for a few days before retreating to your next stop or exploring on your way there. 

You can arrange your private transfer in advance, and your driver will arrive at your desired location in Ouro Preto. Most companies use clean, comfortable, and well-maintained vehicles that provide a fast and safe journey!

By traveling this way, you will get the most out of your trip and gain unforgettable memories!

3. Rental Car

Journey Duration: 5 hours 55 minutes

Rio is about a 6-hour drive from Ouro Preto through the scenic hills of Minas Gerais.

This is a fast and inexpensive option if you donโ€™t want to travel by public transport and prefer more flexibility and freedom!

Search through the car rental options and pick the best for you!

Best day tours in Rio de Janeiro

Get Your Guideย helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. Itโ€™s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive?

The distance is 247.2 miles or 397.9 kilometers, and it takes 5 hours and 55 minutes to get there.

Which mode of transportation is most popular?

The Economy Bus by Util is the most popular transportation.

This article was last fact-checked by Jean Nรกjera on

4 Apr 2025

5/5 – (2 votes)

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