Carnaval Experience

Discover the Secrets Behind the World’s Biggest Carnival

Get an authentic, behind-the-scenes experience of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival preparations and witness firsthand the artistry and passion that bring this spectacular event to life!

The Brazilian Carnival is the biggest popular festival in the world, and Rio de Janeiro is at the heart of the celebration. The Cidade Maravilhosa attracts visitors from all over the globe, eager to experience the street parties and the breathtaking Samba School parades at the Marquês de Sapucaí.

What many don’t know is that this six-day extravaganza takes an entire year of preparation! No matter the time of year, you can enjoy an exclusive backstage tour and see firsthand how Rio’s Carnival is brought to life. Discover how the elaborate floats are built, try on dazzling samba costumes, practice some samba moves, and toast with a delicious caipirinha. Are you ready?

CARNAVAL EXPERIENCE WITH THE 2022 CHAMPION

This exclusive tour takes place at the Cidade do Samba, home to the workshops of Rio’s top samba schools. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into the Acadêmicos do Grande Rio warehouse, where you’ll immerse yourself in the history and magic of samba and Carnival parades.

Along the way, your guide will take you through the production process of the massive floats and over 3,000 costumes designed for the next parade. You’ll witness the artists, designers, and seamstresses working behind the scenes to create a show-stopping performance for the Sambadrome.

TRY ON CARNIVAL COSTUMES

Ever dreamed of dressing up in an authentic Carnival costume? Here’s your chance! Step into the spotlight, try on spectacular outfits, and capture unforgettable photos of this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

And the experience doesn’t stop there! The tour ends with a live samba performance by the school’s professional dancers, followed by a samba lesson where you can learn a few steps—all while enjoying a refreshing caipirinha.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

You can experience Carnaval Experience in two ways:

Regular Tour – Available Monday to Saturday at 10 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM.
Private Tour – For groups of 5 or more, available Monday to Saturday, between 9 AM and 6 PM.Tours are available in multiple languages, and tickets can be purchased online.

HOW TO GET THERE

Getting to Cidade do Samba is simple:
Public Transport: Take the VLT light rail and get off at the “Cidade do Samba” station, which is right in front of the entrance.
By Car or Ride-Share: Search for “Carnaval Experience” or “Cidade do Samba” in your app. Paid parking is available nearby.

HOW TO GET THERE

• Tom Jobim International Airport – RIOgaleão
• Santos Dumont Airport