Rio Carnival Rehearsal: Samba School, Culture, Traditional Music & Dancing

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Rio Carnival Rehearsal: Samba School, Culture, Traditional Music & Dancing

Active

(6 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

What do you do in Rio in the months leading up to the official carnival parades? To prepare for the showy carnival parades in February, samba schools need a long preparation that starts in June.

Get the feeling of Carnival by taking a guided tour of an exciting rehearsal experiencing the passion that unites all Brazilians. Immerse yourself in one of the most interactive Brazilian cultural expressions with dancing, singing and cheering alongside fans at one of the samba schools warehouses the night away.

Before rehearsal, assimilate into the samba and carnaval culture by joining workshops taking the first steps in the samba dance from professional dancers, and even learn a little how to play the main carnaval instruments from talented musicians.

After the workshops, enjoy the official rehearsal on the court putting into practice what you learned with dancers, drummers and flag bearers.

In addition, learn about the history of samba and the school's community, and its main projects.

Available options

SOUTH OF RIO OR DOWNTOWN

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by fully-equipped vehicles.

VAT, all taxes, handling charges and parking fees.

Licensed bilingual tour guide.

Entrance fees.

Private driver for groups bigger than 3 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.

Detailed itinerary

Get a great chance to feel the Carnival passion that unites all Brazilians. Watch the warm-up of the samba parades and be spellbound by the most exciting and flamboyant festivals of the country.

The Samba School warehouse comes to life with astounding Samba music.

✔️Have a reserved table for you and the group.

✔️Reception with dancers serving the traditional caipirinha drink.

✔️Mingle with carnaval fans and look behind the scenes of it.

✔️Have a unique experience and listen to the best samba music taking the first steps engaging yourself in the samba rhythm.

✔️Meet very talented artists and experience a different culture.

✔️Learn the basic steps with great dancers to take more advantage of the event.

What's not included

Meals and drinks.

Tips. (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

SOUTH RIO PICK-UPS (Only South)

• Pick-ups between 20:00 and 21:00, but we will get in touch with every tourist the date before the tour to arrange a more accurate pick-up time.

"PICK-UPS ARE ON THE FOLLOWING NEIGHBORHOODS:"
• Leblon
• Ipanema
• Copacabana
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End of Event

At the end of the event, around 2:00 am, our guide will take you back to your address safely.
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• In the very unlikely situation that the customer is not able to locate our guide, please call our emergency telephone number on the voucher.

Contacts:
● 55 (11) 21571629

● 55 (11) 9 9311-9144

● 55 (11) 9 4738-2606

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