Nova Friburgo is about 130 km northeast of Rio de Janeiro, reachable by bus in two and a half to three hours depending on traffic and the route. Several bus companies including 1001 operate regular services from Rio's Rodoviária Novo Rio terminal. The road climbs steeply into the Serra through impressive scenery; the last section involves a series of switchbacks that can be slow in heavy rain.
By car from Rio, take BR-040 north and then RJ-116, or the scenic route via Teresópolis on RJ-130 through the Serra dos Órgãos. There is no rail connection. The nearest airports are Santos Dumont or Galeão in Rio; some visitors also fly into Campos dos Goytacazes and drive south from there.