Rio Carnival is one of the most colourful spectacles in the world and lasts for about 5 days on the run up to Shrove Tuesday. The whole city comes alive with music, singing and dancing, and the streets are never empty. Be prepared for sleepless days and nights, as the partying is non-stop, be it in the streets, or at one of the many fancy dress balls, or in the famous Sambadrome watching the parading carnival groups with their extravagant costumes and floats. The various samba 'schools' all compete for a prize and the honour of being the champion carnival group of the year. Around the time of Rio Carnival, our trips are timed to fit in with the event, so you can be sure of enjoying Rio Carnival with a group of like-minded travellers.
Please note that because accommodation in Rio at carnival time is notoriously difficult to book we only offer a five night Rio Carnival package. This includes five nights accommodation, a city tour and an entrance ticket to the Sambadrome. We regret that we are not able to book individual nights accommodation in Rio at carnival time.

is this trip for me?
Route: Rio de Janeiro to Rio de Janeiro
Length of Section: 5 Nights
Profile: Carnival, the biggest party on earth. A fantastic spectacle of colour, costume and dance. This is an experience not to be missed. So get ready for the chance of a lifetime to explore the vibrant city of Rio and party the nights away.
Adventure Rating: Easy
Crew: Western Carnival crew, local guides as necessary.
Vehicle: Local transport.
Accommodation: Shared rooms (twin/triple) in friendly tourist standard hotel, in a lovely area -close to city centre and beach. (100% hotels)
what's included?
Friday:
- B & B at a friendly hotel in the safe area of Flamengo
- Dragoman Overland Carnival crew to look after you during your stay
- Opt. Red and Black Ball to celebrate football fever
Saturday:
- Half day Rio Tour visiting the Corcovado & taking the cable car up Sugar Loaf Mountain (incl entry)
Sunday:
- Ticket to the Sambadrome Parade
- Party all night to the fantastic sounds and sights of the Samba schools parade
Monday:
- Half day guided Favela Tour
- Optional second night at the Sambadrome
- Check out the local parades and soak up the Brazilian Carnival atmosphere
Tuesday:
- Free time to chill out on the beach or visit more of the highlights of Rio
- Sunset Boat Cruise on Guanabarra Bay
- Check out the amazing costumes at the Gay Ball, opt. Entrance tickets
what can I do on the way?
(Activities available at extra costs)
- Watch one of the Brazilian passions, a football game at Macarana Stadium
- Be part of the costumed Sambadrome parade, by joining a Samba School
- Explore the Botanical gardens, take a Tram Ride or learn more on a City Tour
notes:
General notes: This trip is only available in conjunction with one of our other journeys.There is no kitty. Accom is on a B&B basis, in shared rooms.
The exact itinerary may vary slightly.
