Rio Carnival Adventure

On arrival at the airport, make your way to the accommodation check-in is from 3 PM in Lapa, Rio’s vibrant bohemian quarter, where many of Carnival’s main events and bloco parties unfold. This area brims with samba clubs, theatres, capoeira, antique shops in historic buildings, and quirky bars—plenty to explore.

At 6 pm, we gather with our group to review the event schedule. After that, we kick things off with our first caipirinha, join a samba class to sharpen our moves, and let our professional make-up artist get us Carnival-ready. Then it’s time to hit the streets of Lapa together, where our Tour Leader will lead us to the heart of the city’s legendary nightlife. Remember to bring a fancy-dress costume—Carnival is all about bold, playful outfits, and while you can buy extras locally, it’s wise to pack a few essentials.

Please note: the itinerary may change due to unexpected factors such as weather, Carnival schedule changes, traffic, local operator adjustments, and other circumstances beyond our control.

This morning at breakfast, our Tour Leader will be available to discuss the day’s schedule. Our group can choose between joining the Carnival bloco, a street party for a lively experience, or taking a guided walk to Flamengo beach for a more laid-back group outing. If you’d rather further explore the city, you can opt to book a tour like the City Tour of Rio de Janeiro, which includes Christ the Redeemer, Santa Teresa, the City Cathedral, Selaron Steps, and Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car—offering truly breathtaking views. (Booked and paid locally) Alternatively, if you would prefer some relaxation, you can choose to spend your morning at leisure.

This afternoon, get ready for the highlight of Carnival, the Sambadrome Parade at the Sambodromo. Here, we will see the top samba schools showcase their incredible floats and costumes, parading in a dazzling spectacle for everyone to enjoy from the stands above. While there aren't assigned seats, our section promises to be lively and full of enthusiastic partygoers! Before we make our way to the Sambadrome Parade, you will have the opportunity to get your face painted by our professional make-up artist again, and have your picture taken by our photographer.

Today, after breakfast, you can join one of the best blocos, street parties if you missed them yesterday. Each day, your Tour Leader will recommend a different bloco in various locations around Rio, and you’re also free to explore others on your own. Alternatively, a Tour Leader will be on hand to take you to Ipanema beach for a swim and some sun. If you’d rather unwind, you can simply rest and recharge this morning.

Later in the day, we’ll meet at the hotel and walk together to the Marina da Gloria. From there, we’ll board a beautiful schooner for a 4-5 hour cruise through the breathtaking Guanabara Bay. Enjoy an open bar during the first hour, and take advantage of the dance floor, music, and chill-out area. As we return after sunset, we’ll see the city, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Christ the Redeemer from a truly unique viewpoint.

Later, you will have another chance to further explore the nightlife at your own pace.

After breakfast, meet your Tour Leader to review the day’s plans and ask questions. You can opt to book a half-day Favela Tour (booked and paid locally), exploring a welcoming community with a local guide who shares the history of Rio’s legendary Samba Schools. You will enjoy views from the top and a walk through the narrow streets for a unique insight into local life. Finish with a refreshing acai from a local seller to recharge for the day ahead.

Alternatively, you can speak to your guide if you are interested in another morning bloco street party or you can choose to spend the morning at your leisure, enjoying food at a local restaurant or discovering the city. Later, we will have some time to get ready before making our way to the biggest bloco party on the Ipanema beach

At the end of the day, you can sip your drink from a coconut and watch the sunset from Arpoador Rock, taking in stunning views from Copacabana to Ipanema and Leblon. Afterwards, head back to your accommodation, where you can either rest or get ready for another fun night at the Carnival parties recommended by your Tour Leader.

Today, we’ll head to one of Rio’s best carnival bloco street parties. Feel free to wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring sunscreen.

Today, we’ll head to one of Rio’s best carnival bloco street parties. Feel free to wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring sunscreen. In the afternoon, we’ll make the most of the day with some time to relax and unwind at Copacabana Beach. You will then have some free time.

Tonight, is the final night of our Carnival experience. You can enjoy an optional Brazilian Churrasco BBQ dinner (booked and paid locally). Afterward, you can join our crew to celebrate Rio Carnival’s grand finale in style at another bloco.

After your final breakfast, our tour will come to an end. Depending on your departure flight time, you might have some time for some last-minute shopping, exploring, or relaxation before making your way to the airport for your onward flight.