Carnival Parade Costume Experience and Transfer in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Carnival Parade Costume Experience and Transfer in Rio de Janeiro

Active

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We invite you to join the biggest Carnival Parade in the world! The Rio Carnival Parade is a spectacular competition where Samba Schools showcase a year’s worth of preparation through music, dance, and stunning costumes. This experience offers you the unique chance to be more than just a spectator—you'll become part of the show! Dress up in a tailor-made, authentic costume created by a Samba School and parade down the iconic Sambadrome alongside professional performers. Our team will help you suit up and feel confident as you take the stage in this unforgettable cultural celebration. After your performance, we’ll take you back to your hotel. If your luggage allows, you can even take the costume home as a souvenir of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Please note: Carnival dates change each year, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your trip.

Available options

Carnival Parade Costume Experience and Transfer in Rio de Janeiro

Pickup included

What's included

Possibility to take the costume home (if you have space in your luggage).

Assistance with putting on the costume.

Round-trip transfer (hotel ↔ Sambadrome).

Original, tailor-made costume created by a samba school.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Marquês de Sapucaí, officially known as the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, is the iconic stage of Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous Carnival. Located in the heart of the city, this purpose-built venue was designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and inaugurated in 1984. Every year, it comes alive with vibrant colors, infectious rhythms, and dazzling performances as samba schools compete for glory during the main Carnival parades. The Sambadrome stretches for 700 meters and features grandstands, VIP boxes, and open-air seating for over 70,000 spectators, offering an immersive view of the magic unfolding on the runway. It is more than a parade route—it’s a cultural landmark that showcases the spirit, creativity, and passion of Brazilian samba. Outside of Carnival, it also hosts events and concerts, but during Carnival season, the Marquês de Sapucaí transforms into the epicenter of one of the greatest shows on Earth.

What's not included

Food

Drink

Tickets to watch the Carnival Parade

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tickets to watch the parade (as a spectator) are not included.

Carnival dates change every year, so it's important to check the calendar when planning your trip.

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