Evening Experience at a Carioca Samba School

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Evening Experience at a Carioca Samba School

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About this experience

You will experience immersion in a Samba school in Rio de Janeiro with a Tourism Guide accredited by the Ministry of Tourism.

Included Transport leaving from the Center and South Zone of Rio.

Observe the two different experiences below. You will only purchase 01 (one):

On Fridays the experience is at the Portela court in Madureira. Founded in 1923, Portela was built in a place where the black people of a city marked by slavery found shelter, strength and direction. Since 1923, Portela has been defining the tradition of samba and has accumulated 22 titles, being the biggest winner of the Carnival in Rio. Duration: 4h.

On Saturdays the experience takes place at the Salgueiro court, in Andaraí. Salgueiro is a school that exalts Africanities and originated in a community that was once a Quilombo. It has one of the most popular sambas, with "Petei um Ita no Norte/Explode Coração", a Brazilian anthem in Samba. Discover one of the biggest samba schools in Rio de Janeiro! Duration: 4h.

Available options

Portela Samba School

Salgueiro Samba School

Car; Van ou Minibus.<br/>Ticket<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Tickets

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

You will visit one of the most traditional samba schools in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The Portela samba school was founded more than 100 years ago, in Oswaldo Cruz, in the north of Rio de Janeiro.

Grêmio Recreativo Escola de Samba Portela is one of the most popular associations of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and one of the oldest in the country, with a history spanning more than 100 years full of titles and memorable parades that justify the nickname “The Majesty of Samba".

It is a school in a black neighborhood, Madureira, which once received black people freed from slavery from the Paraíba Valley. This influence marks the history of Portela and its representation in the world of samba.

On Saturday, our Samba Carioca Route takes place at the Salgueiro court, in the Greater Tijuca region. Acadêmicos do Salgueiro is a traditional samba school, which often has carnival themes, stories and African elements. It has several championships and is one of the most popular in Rio de Janeiro. The visit to the court includes a pagoda show that opens the show at the house, and then, around midnight, the drum show begins with the presence of the drum queen - always a local celebrity. Throughout the night, professional dancers perform on the school floor to guarantee the best rehearsal in preparation for the biggest carnival party in the world on the samba catwalk.

Experience a little of the Salgueiro community on an unforgettable day!

What's not included

Bottled water

Lunch

Alcoholic Beverages

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

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