Túnel Santa Bárbara, Rio De Janeiro Travel Guide

Experience Rio's efficient urban transit through the Santa Bárbara Tunnel, connecting North and South with ease.

Home
Travel Guides
Brazil
Rio De Janeiro
Túnel Santa Bárbara

The Túnel Santa Bárbara is a crucial tunnel in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, linking the Catumbi and Laranjeiras neighborhoods. It facilitates transit between the North and South zones of the city, bypassing the often congested city center. Known for its significant length and role in urban mobility, the tunnel is a key element of Rio's infrastructure.

A brief summary to Túnel Santa Bárbara

Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Túnel Santa Bárbara.

Consider using the tunnel to avoid heavy traffic in Rio's city center.
Be aware of the tunnel's closure schedule for maintenance on Mondays and Wednesdays late at night.
Note that the most convenient route to the Sambadrome from the South Zone is through the Santa Bárbara tunnel.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Monumento à Princesa Isabel, a Redentora

Mirante do Leblon

Christ the Redeemer

Escadaria Selarón

Copacabana Fort

Explore Túnel Santa Bárbara on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Túnel Santa Bárbara, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From various points in Centro, take a bus heading towards Laranjeiras or Botafogo. Many buses utilize the tunnel to connect these areas. Check the bus route to ensure it passes through the Túnel Santa Bárbara. Bus fares in Rio de Janeiro typically cost around R$4.05.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. Request a ride to an address on either side of the tunnel (Catumbi or Laranjeiras) and the driver will likely use the tunnel to expedite the journey. A short taxi ride within Centro to either entrance of the tunnel will likely cost between R$20-R$30, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Túnel Santa Bárbara

The Túnel Santa Bárbara is more than just a passage; it's a vital component of Rio de Janeiro's urban infrastructure. Connecting Catumbi and Laranjeiras, it streamlines traffic flow between the city's North and South zones.Construction began in 1947 but faced delays due to property disputes, finally opening in 1963. At the time, it was South America's largest and most modern tunnel. Originally a single gallery, a dividing wall was added in 1992 to improve air quality by separating opposing traffic flows.The tunnel is 1,357 meters long and has four lanes. It carries approximately 100,000 vehicles daily. To honor the 18 workers who died during its construction, an artwork by Djanira was originally installed in the tunnel, though it was later moved to the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes due to humidity damage. The tunnel closes for maintenance on Mondays (Laranjeiras direction) and Wednesdays (Catumbi direction) from 11:50 PM to 4:30 AM, except on holidays.