Metered taxis line up 24/7 outside VCP Terminal 1
Right outside the arrivals hall at Viracopos International Airport’s T1, you’ll find a marked taxi rank with cars waiting around the clock. Rides are by car only, and you pay in Brazilian reais at the end of the trip. The stand sits just beyond the customs exit, so you hit it within 2–3 minutes of leaving baggage claim.
Viracopos is about 18 km from central Campinas, and taxis usually cover that distance in 20–30 minutes depending on SP-075 traffic. Fares are metered, with the final price tied to distance and time, so a run into downtown Campinas often lands in a similar band to app cars at busy times. You ride door-to-door, which helps if you have two checked bags or more.
The taxi rank at T1 uses an organized queue, with an attendant directing you to the next car in line. You board from the curb directly in front of the terminal exit, which cuts down on any hunting for a pick-up point. Drivers typically accept cash in reais; some cars have card terminals, but you should not count on it if you’re arriving on a late flight after 23:00.
For longer trips from VCP, like a ride to São Paulo (over 90 km via the Anhanguera or Bandeirantes highways), the meter can add up quickly. In these cases, some travelers agree a fixed price with the driver before leaving the curb. Always confirm if tolls on SP state highways are included or added on top, especially for runs beyond Campinas city limits.
Step-by-step: taking a taxi from VCP T1
- 1. Exit customs at Terminal 1 and follow “Taxi” signs to the curb; it’s less than 150 meters from baggage claim.
- 2. Join the taxi queue at the official rank and wait for the attendant to assign you a car.
- 3. Tell the driver your destination in Campinas or another city and confirm that the meter will be used, or agree on a fixed fare for long-distance trips.
- 4. Load your luggage into the trunk; most standard taxis handle at least two large suitcases plus carry-ons.
- 5. On arrival, pay the driver in Brazilian reais and ask for a receipt with the taxi number if you need an expense record.
One practical tip: withdraw or exchange enough reais in the arrivals area at VCP before heading to the curb, especially if you land after 22:00 when some card terminals and smaller banks are less reliable.