Experience the magic of the Rio Carnival all year round!

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Experience the magic of the Rio Carnival all year round!

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is undoubtedly famous throughout the world, but not everyone really knows the history of what is considered the greatest show on the planet.
The history of the carnival is really interesting and is still alive today because it mixes with the history of Brazil and the city of Rio, with the phenomenon of slavery, with the culture, religion, music and folklore of African origin.
In this tour of approximately 7 hours we want to tell you a little about all this and to do so we will start from an area of the city center known as "Little Africa" where the history, culture and art of those who have unfortunately had to suffer the tragedy of slavery gave life to the wonderful spectacle of the Carioca carnival. We will then visit the Samba Museum (it will be a real experience!) and then we will go to know the place where the allegorical floats and costumes of the Rio Carnival are made. There will be no shortage of surprises on this unforgettable day!

Available options

Experience the magic of the Rio Carnival all year round!

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance tickets to the Samba Museum and guided tour of the City of Samba

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Our tour will start from an area of central Rio known as "Little Africa". This part of the city is of fundamental importance for understanding the link between the culture and traditions of African origin and the carnival as it is today. We will visit the most significant points and we will be able to learn about the history of some characters who contributed to the birth of the Carioca carnival, such as Tia Ciata, considered the "mother of samba".

Stop 2

We will then stop for a few minutes in front of the large stage of the carnival parades where you will be able to understand how this great event is organised

We will pass in front of the first samba school officially founded in Rio de Janeiro

We will visit the Samba Museum where there will be the opportunity for a wonderful immersion in the history of the carnival and the protagonists who created one of the most traditional schools in the city: the Primereira da Mangueria Station.

Stop 5

After lunch we will conclude our tour with a visit to the City of Samba, the place where the 12 most important samba schools in Rio have their production center for allegorical floats and fantasies. We will take a guided tour of the Grande Rio School shed where it will be possible to experience firsthand everything that represents the "backstage of the carnival". During this experience there will be some surprises which, we are sure, will be the "cherry on the cake" of an unforgettable day!

What's not included

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals