Boa Vista

Boa Vista is the capital of the state of Roraima in the north of Brazil. Most foreigners pass through en route between Manaus and Venezuela.

Understand
For a Brazilian state capital this size (about 437,000 in 2021), Boa Vista is remarkably quiet. Judging by the number of evangelical churches, Jesus has his equatorial stronghold here. Despite being more than 100 years old, the city has the aspects of a planned capital, with wide modern streets and traffic circles. Historical references are difficult to find.

By plane
LATAM and Gol operate to all large Brazilian airports, mostly via Manaus and/or Brasília.

Locally based Meta have more regional destinations, and also crosses the border into Suriname and Guyana.

The 10-minute cab ride from the airport to the centre runs at fixed 30 reais.

By bus
Boa Vista has 3 daily bus connections to Manaus by way of Presidente Figueiredo (11 hours, R$95) by Eucatur. This includes an en route passport screen by the Federal Police.

Also buses to deep into Venezuela.

Six daily buses to Bonfim and the border with Guyana. If crossing the border, do not get off in Bonfim, the bus will continue to the border.

Get around
Most sights are within walking distance from the central hotels. Buses pass by the terminal urbano in the center. Taxis marked lotação are slightly more expensive than buses, but run faster, and can also deviate somewhat from their routes for an extra fee. Regular cabs run on metres, but might insist on fixed prices to the bus station and airport.

Do

 * Sunset cruises leave from Orla Taumanan at 17:00. Book ahead. Tel. 9971 5454.
 * When the river is low, the far side has a string of beaches, a couple of them with shacks serving drinks and snacks. A boat ride across costs R$2.50.

Buy
Stores generally close early on Saturday and remain closed on Sunday.

Sleep
Hotels are spread out between the centre and the bus station.

Crossing borders with Venezuela
There is one morning bus for R$22, leaving from Terminal International at 07:00, to the border town of Pacaraima. The other option is to take a shared taxi. The shared taxis leave from Terminal Coimbe usually in the morning hours (07:00-10:00) and charge R$30-35 per person.