Rio Carnival Extravaganza

Welcome to Rio de Janeiro! On arrival, make your way to our accommodation in lively Lapa, the heart of Rio’s Carnival and bloco street parties. This vibrant neighbourhood is packed with samba clubs, theatres, antique shops, bars and more to explore.

Check-in is from 3PM. At 6PM, meet the rest of the group for a briefing on the week’s events. Then it’s time to dive into the Carnival spirit with your first caipirinha, a group samba class, and face painting by a professional make-up artist. After that, hit the streets with our Tour Leader and experience the electric nightlife of Lapa.

Carnival Tip: Costumes are a must at the bloco parties - pack your most colourful fancy dress or pick something up in Rio (but don’t rely on it!).

Please Note: The itinerary may change due to weather, Carnival schedule updates, traffic or other local conditions beyond our control.

This morning over breakfast, our Tour Leader will go over the day’s plans and answer any questions. Afterwards, set off on a city tour of Rio. First, we’ll drive through Tijuca National Park to Corcovado to visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer. Then it’s on to the charming neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, with its grand old mansions, art galleries and the iconic trams.

Next, we stop at the colourful Selaron Steps in Lapa, made famous by the music video for Snoop Dogg’s Beautiful. The final visit is Sugarloaf Mountain, reached via cable car, where we’ll enjoy incredible views over Guanabara Bay, the Rio-Niteroi Bridge and Christ the Redeemer.

After the tour, we return to the hotel with time to get ready for the main event -tonight’s legendary Sambadrome Parade! All of Rio’s top samba schools take to the runway with dazzling floats and jaw-dropping costumes. You’ll experience the spectacle from our lively seating area, right in the heart of the action.

Before we head out, there’s another chance to have your face painted by our make-up artist and get a photo taken to capture the Carnival magic.

This morning, you’ll have three great options to choose from. Join your Tour Leader at one of the city’s best blocos (street parties), with a different one on offer each day in various Rio neighbourhoods. Prefer a slower pace? Another guide will lead a relaxing trip to Ipanema Beach for sunbathing and a swim. Or simply enjoy a restful morning at your own pace - totally up to you.

In the afternoon, we regroup and walk together to Marina da Gloria, stopping for an included lunch on the way. Then it’s time to board a traditional schooner for a 4–5 hour cruise around Guanabara Bay. Enjoy an open bar during the first hour, a lively dance floor, music and chill-out areas as we sail past stunning views of the city, Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer - just in time for sunset.

After some downtime at the hotel, get ready for another unforgettable night out. Your Tour Leader will guide you to some of the best nightlife in Rio!

This morning, we’ll head out on a fascinating half-day Favela tour. Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll visit a pacified favela and learn about its connection to Rio’s iconic samba schools. Begin at the top with sweeping views across the city, then walk down through the maze of narrow streets, getting a real feel for the vibrant, proud community spirit. Don’t miss the chance to try a refreshing açai from one of the local vendors before heading back.

As the day winds down, we’ll head to Arpoador Rock to watch the sun set behind the Dois Irmãos mountains, with panoramic views stretching from Copacabana to Leblon.

In the evening, your Tour Leader will once again guide you to one of Rio’s top Carnival parties - get ready for another unforgettable night!

This morning, we’ll head to one of the best Carnival blocos in town - don’t forget your swimsuit under your outfit and plenty of sunscreen!

In the afternoon, it’s time to unwind with a relaxing visit to Copacabana Beach. Soak up the sun, swim, or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Afterwards, return to the accommodation for a rest - or to get ready for the big finale.

Tonight is our final night together, and we’re going out in style. We’ll kick things off with a mouthwatering Brazilian Churrasco BBQ dinner - go back for seconds (or thirds!) as often as you like. After dinner, it’s time for one last blowout with the whole crew as we party into the night and close out Carnival with a bang!

Our tour comes to an end this morning after breakfast and check out.