São Paulo Carnaval Rehearsal: Samba School, Culture, Traditional Music & Dancing

São Paulo , Brazil

São Paulo Carnaval Rehearsal: Samba School, Culture, Traditional Music & Dancing

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About this experience

What do you do in São Paulo in the months leading up to the official carnaval parades? To be ready for the showy carnaval parades in February, samba schools need a long preparation that happen from October to January.

Get the feeling of carnaval taking a guided private tour going to an exciting rehearsal experiencing the passion that unites all Brazilians. Dive into one of the most comprehensive and interactive Brazilian cultural expressions with samba dancing, singing and cheering alongside fans at one of the samba schools practicing warehouses.

• This experience gives you an unforgettable opportunity of seeing a different culture and break from the usual routine

• You will also have the chance to try traditional snacks (not included) and take memorable pictures of the experience

• Enthusiastic about carnaval or not, it cannot be missed out on while São Paulo

• Get an insight into local Samba music history and culture

• Benefit from the undivided attention of a private guide

Available options

São Paulo Carnaval Rehearsal: Samba School, Culture, Traditional Music & Dancing

Pickup included

What's included

Any address pick-up and drop-off are included like hotel and airport. (within São Paulo)

Driver for groups bigger than 5 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.

VAT, all taxes, handling charges and parking fees.

Transport by fully-equipped vehicles.

Admission fees.

Professional licensed bilingual private tour guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Want to spend a super fun night in São Paulo? Visit the samba school warehouse to enjoy the samba rehearsal accompanied by professionals.

Following pick-up at your place, we drive to our destination to learn the first steps of samba and the secrets of the symbol of Brazil.

During the rehearsal, discover how the dancers from the samba schools get prepared for the spectacular carnaval event. Furthermore, get to know the history of the samba school, the projects it carries out and the main samba movements.

Be carried away by the energy of the music, applauses, animation, party and dance... This is just a small part of the experience that awaits you on this visit to a samba school in São Paulo.

Finally, after a couple of hours, we take you back to your hotel in São Paulo.

What's not included

Food and drinks.

Gratuities & tips. (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

HOTEL PICK-UP INSTRUCTIONS:

As soon as the tour guide arrives at your hotel, they get the front desk to call you in the room in case you are not at the lobby.

In the very unlikely situation that the client are not able to locate our driver, please call our emergency telephone number below.

Contacts:

●55 (11) 3554-6468

●55 (11) 9 9311-9144

●55 (11) 9 4738-2606

About São Paulo

São Paulo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city known for its dynamic culture, diverse cuisine, and bustling urban life. As Brazil's financial and cultural hub, it offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and lush parks, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of excitement and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Ibirapuera Park

Ibirapuera Park is São Paulo's most famous green space, offering a vast area for recreation, cultural events, and relaxation. It's a great place for picnics, jogging, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)

MASP is one of the most important art museums in Brazil, housing a vast collection of European and Brazilian art. The museum's iconic modernist building is a landmark in itself.

Museum 2-3 hours R$ 70 (USD 14) for general admission

São Paulo Cathedral

The São Paulo Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The cathedral's towering spires and intricate details make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Mercado Municipal

Mercado Municipal is a bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's a great place to sample São Paulo's diverse culinary scene and shop for souvenirs.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary by item

Jardim Botânico

Jardim Botânico is a beautiful botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, trees, and flowers. The garden's peaceful atmosphere and scenic paths make it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Nature 1-2 hours R$ 7 (USD 1.40) for general admission

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pão de Queijo

Delicious cheese bread made with tapioca flour, originating from Minas Gerais but popular throughout Brazil.

Snack Gluten-free, contains dairy

Feijoada

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

Dinner Contains pork and beans, can be made vegetarian

Acarajé

Deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters stuffed with shrimp, vatapá (a spicy paste), and salad, originating from Bahia but popular in São Paulo.

Snack Contains shrimp and peanuts, gluten-free

Pastel

Crispy fried pastry pockets filled with various savory ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or hearts of palm.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Water sports at Santos Beach Exploring the city's street art and graffiti scene Relaxing in Ibirapuera Park Enjoying a traditional Brazilian massage Visiting a local café or spa Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18-28°C (64-82°F) 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time, BRT)

Electricity

110-127V and 220V (varies by region and establishment)V, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

São Paulo is a vibrant and exciting city, but it also has its share of safety concerns. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime, including robbery and assault, can occur, especially in certain neighborhoods and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone in isolated or unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber, and avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis

Getting there

By air

São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
São Paulo/Congonhas Airport • 10 km (6.2 miles) from city center

By train

Estação da Luz, Estação da Sé

By bus

Terminal Tietê, Terminal Jabaquara

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned, making it the preferred mode of transport for locals and tourists alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jardins Vila Madalena Liberdade Pinheiros Santa Cecilia

Day trips

Campinas

95 km (59 miles) from São Paulo • Full day

Campinas is a vibrant city known for its universities, cultural attractions, and proximity to nature. It's a great destination for a day trip from São Paulo, offering a mix of urban and outdoor activities.

Santos

75 km (47 miles) from São Paulo • Full day

Santos is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great escape from the city for a relaxing day by the sea.

Paraty

250 km (155 miles) from São Paulo • Overnight

Paraty is a charming colonial town known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. It's a great destination for a longer day trip or overnight stay from São Paulo.

Festivals

Carnival • February or March (varies by year) São Paulo Fashion Week • July and October Virada Cultural • May (specific dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Use the metro or bus to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and unpredictable
Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas and on public transport
Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases, as this will be appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience
Try the local street food and cuisine, as São Paulo is known for its diverse and flavorful food scene
Visit the city's museums and cultural attractions, as São Paulo has a rich and vibrant artistic scene