In a huge country like Brazil, traveling by airplane can cost only as much as how long bus rides would charge you. Should you be going around in the country from far cities to another, consider comparing prices of domestic airplanes and buses. Local domestic flight tickets can be purchased from either GOL Airlines or Latam Airlines. 

Other local means of transportation are by buses and you may actually book them in advance through Brasil by Bus.

To give you an idea of how much public transport may cost you, here’s a bit of summary:

Source: numbeo.com

While you may want to experience traversing via cab, boat, or their ‘moto taxis’ that use motorcycles, if you are staying for a longer period of time, you may also want to consider renting a car. You may find good deals of car rentals in Alug Rent a Car, Kayak, or Brazil Car. Just make sure you have an international driver’s license, for they will require you to submit one.