There are many different bus companies to choose from when travelling in Brazil, it can be hard to know which is the best one to pick. We had heard Brazil bus’s had a full lay down bed option and we were keen to try it.
It can be quite confusing as to know which is actually the full lay down option or semi lay down option, here we will break down it down so you too can experience the luxury of a full lay down bed on a bus.
If you’re reading this and you’re still in Imbituba be sure to check out our guide on the whale migration!
We found a great company, which we highly recommend, Let’s jump in and find out the best way to get from Imbituba to Rio De Janerio!
Seat Types
If you’re anything like us, you like to kill two birds with one stone, travelling overnight does exactly that! Not only do you save on a nights accommodation, but you’re also saving valuable time travelling through the night to reach your destination.
Due to the language barrier, it can be such a headache trying to figure out what ticket actually guarantees you a lay down bed, we’ve had instances in the past in South America where we thought we were booking a fully lay down bed, but it turned out to be only a semi lay down bed, which was disappointing to say the least.
Below, we will lay out the exact options you have to make sure you bag this business class like experience.
Semileito/Half-Bed
This is the cheapest option out of the three, and these seats are usually located on the upper level of the bus. The seats are quite narrow and the arm rests are thin and quite uncomfortable, but if you’re on a budget then this option is doable.
The seats do recline quite generously, and you have access to USB ports, reading lights and personal curtains. You’ll also be closer to the WC should you need to use it and the views are more enjoyable on the upper deck.
Leito-Cama/Side by Side Beds
This option is the don of all options especially if you’re travelling with your partner and you would like to be lying side by side. This is actually the closest business class experience outside of flying and its by far the best bus ride we’ve had in the whole of South America.
The seats offer a fully flat reclining bed which lays down into your own private booth, the leg rest clips up so you can lay 100% flat! The seats are very spacious and the headrests have integrated pillows to provide a comfy area for your head, the seats themselves are padded and the arm rests are also very comfortable.
The seats have several USB ports, reading lights and Wifi on board to stay connected, you’ll also be given your own personal blanket to keep you snug. This area also has access to a fridge, stocked with cold water!
Cama – Individual/ Single Bed
If you’re travelling alone then this option is amazing and even more private, your seat will be situated in a single row with your own individual curtain to give you more privacy away from the double seats.
You’ll also have access to of course a full lay down bed along side USB ports, reading lights and integrated pillows to give you that extra comfort. Let’s not forget that you’ll have access to a fridge that stocks cold water throughout your journey!
Which Company to Choose from Imbituba to Rio De Janerio
Itapemirim
We searched far and wide to find the best company to offer this service, Itapemrim is one of the most popular bus companies in Brazil and they offer many long distance overnight journeys all over the country, good job as Brazil is the largest country in South America and those of you on a budget will want to experience this luxury option.
You can book your tickets directly on their website or on Clickbus. You do need a CPF when booking online, you can generate one for free on this CPF Generator website. It worked for us!
However our advice would be to go to the ticket office in person and pay with cash, this always seems to be the cheapest option, as they tend to give you a discount if you pay in cash.
You can also have the peace of mind that you have the physical ticket which minimises the chances of third party over bookings etc.
Travel Tips
Layer Up
Layers are everything on this trip, the AC will be blasting all night and you want to make sure you’re snug and warm. The bus offers a blanket for those opting for the full lay down option, but this isn’t enough to keep you warm, thick socks and jumpers are key to make this journey cosy and to optimise your comfort.
You can also use any jumpers or layers as a makeshift pillow to boost your comfort levels or to elevate your feet and legs to ensure good circulation on those long journeys.
Food
There’s nothing worse than being hungry on a 24 hour journey, it’s important to be prepared for any eventuality, breakdowns do happen, and although this bus stops several times at rest stops, the food is outrageously expensive and you also run the risk of getting a dodgy belly on your long journey.
We always prepare food prior to our journey to ensure no one goes hungry. It’s likely your bus will get stuck in heavy traffic in and out of the larger cities and it may be hours between your next rest stop, be snack prepared to avoid those hunger pangs and hangry moods!
Noise Cancelling Headphones
We would never embark on a long journey without them, they’re a huge game changer for travelling. Can you imagine a screaming child for 24 hours or a snorer? Hell to the no we say!
Our Bose Quiet Comforts offer a silent night filled with podcasts or relaxing music to soothe you to sleep. Or just the Noise cancelling feature alone offers rest bite from any external noises.
Final Thoughts
This was without a doubt the best travel experience we have ever had and we wish this service was offered throughout South America. If you’re travelling in Brazil and you’re curious to know what long distance travel is like via bus, then be sure to book in advance as these business class seats sell out fast! It’s okay, you can thank us later.