Guarulhos offers a mixed experience for walkers. The city center is moderately walkable, with pedestrianized streets and accessible local shopping areas. These pockets allow travelers to manage some daily errands on foot, especially in neighborhoods with good infrastructure and services. However, the city's expansive layout, industrial zones, and favelas discourage pedestrian movement. Travelers should choose their accommodation carefully to ensure they have easy access to amenities and safe walking paths.

Public transit in Guarulhos primarily involves a network of bus services, supplemented by connections to São Paulo's extensive metro system. Buses provide regular services to the city center and São Paulo, which is convenient for longer commutes. However, local public transport within Guarulhos can be a mixed bag, as travel times may increase during rush hours and the availability can be neighborhood-dependent. Overall, while public transport is usable, travelers should plan accordingly for potential delays and crowded conditions.

Guarulhos does not offer a highly favorable environment for cycling. Limited cycling lanes and routes deter regular biking, alongside challenging terrain with hilly areas. While there are parks such as Jardim Metropolitano with some cycling paths, these do not suffice for practical commuting. Therefore, for travelers looking to rely on biking for daily transportation, Guarulhos might present significant obstacles in terms of safety and convenience.