Check out Rio Carnival package for 2012

The Rio Carnival package is a great way to start off an adventure holiday in Brazil.

With the British weather turning slightly nasty and snow and rain predicted in the months ahead, it is a good thing that UK residents have Christmas and New Year to look forward to.

However, what about after the festive season? It's always great to have something positive in the pipeline and a Rio Carnival package could be just the tonic for all the dreariness experienced in good old Blighty over the colder months.

With Brazil enjoying the end of its summer season in February, it could be a great place to top up the tan and enjoying the festivities could be a great way to launch or bring the curtain down on fun-filled and action-packed overland tours of South America.

The 2012 instalment of what is probably the world's best-known carnival begins on February 18th and runs for a approximately a week, although you might be too tired to party every single night.

It has been described as the world's best party and only those who have experienced it will be able to tell you just how indescribable and majestic an event it is.

The great Brazilian city is a wonder to behold at the best of times, with attractions including Copacabana and Ipanema's beaches, as well as the world-famous Cristo Redentor statue and Maracana Stadium.

However, it shuts down each February for carnival, with the locals - known as Cariocas - coming out to take part in flamboyant parades full of colour and dancing.

While it is possible to experience the event on your own, doing so as part of a guided package could present a chance to get to the heart of the festival and experience the Sambadrome in all its glory.

There are also opportunities to take a guided half-day trip up Corcovado and a visit to Sugar Loaf Mountain.