a way to get to grips with the sometimes-confusing bus network, as well as all other forms of public transport in rio de janeiro state, is to use the vá de Ônibus app.

it uses geo-referencing technology to determine which is the best method of transport from any location, to a desired destination, whilst also providing a number of alternatives as well.

included in the service are prices for the journey, how much connecting travel is by foot, and how many transfers there are.

the app is available in portuguese, english, and spanish, and also has a list of the city's interesting sights - more information on this page, or via i-tunes here.