Sao Paulo GRU Airport has several lounges for all travelers, in all travel classes. As the largest and busiest airport in Brazil, the airport can get somewhat crazy at times, especially in the evening hours when most flights depart to Europe and North America. The good news is that the airport has several lounges across multiple terminals. Each lounge is slightly different and has different requirements to enter. Terminal 2 even offers an airside lounge, Villa GRU.
The Terminal 2 airside lounge is very small and basic. Then again, the old terminal is fairly basic all around, still stuck in the era is was built. 1980s military dictatorship. It is dark, windowless, with cement accents. If I didn’t know better I would have believed I was in the former USSR. Similarly to the rest of the terminal, Villa GRU lounge is also small and dreary.
Villa GRU lounge is located in terminal 2 near the D doors. The doors to the lounge are always locked and entry is granted via a doorbell. Using Priority Pass, I accessed this lounge before my LATAM domestic flight. Both those flying internationally or domestically can utilize this lounge.
The small lounge offers very basic amenities with seating for about 20-30 people. Upon entering the lounge, there is a small conference room to the right. When I was visiting this room was occupied by a group of travelers laughing and sharing stories. There is also two restrooms and a shower near the entrance.
Due to limited space, all bags are stored while using the lounge. The storage closet is in the hallway close to the main room.
The main and really only seating area is very small. Maybe 20 people max can sit in this area. As the lounge is basic and landside it is not likely ever too busy. Nicer lounges are airside. There’s also a TV in this area showing Brazilian TV shows and news.
The dining area is in the very back of the lounge. Snack and drink options are limited, but are free. Or at least included with entry. There’s the options for packaged snacks or mini sandwiches. There’s also soda, water, juice and coffee. A small espresso machine is available. It also makes hot chocolate. No alcohol is available.
Overall this is not the most amazing lounge, but it does the trick. Do not show up early to hang out here, but if you have a delay or find yourself a bit early, or waiting for someone to pick you up, this lounge will do. The lounge is about a 3 minute walk to security. From my experience wait security is quick. It only took us about 5 minutes from the lounge to clearing security.
