Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

When is Carnival?

2012 Carnival starts on Saturday, February 18th and ends on Fat Tuesday, February 21. 

Which Carnival is the best in Brazil?

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Olinda and Salvador all clamor for this title. The Carnival in Rio is definitely the biggest and most famous, not just in Brazil but in the whole world. And it is most visited as well. Hence Rio is dubbed the Carnival Capital of the Globe.

Where should I stay in Rio?

Try to stay in Southern Rio (the Zona Sul), which is not just the most beautiful area but also offers the best infrastructure and is the safest. Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are the best, most up-market and priciest options, especially the last two. Botafogo, Lapa and Flamengo are more down-market but still within 15-20 minutes from Copacabana and Ipanema by subway, which runs 24 hours during Carnival.

When should I book?

Book flights and accommodation at least 4 months in advance. Get tickets as early as possible. The best tickets sell out early and prices usually increase as time passes.

Which events should I attend?

Rio Carnival's highlight is the Samba Parade. Go to a few balls especially to the Gala Ball in Scala. Join in as many street parties and street band processions as you can, both downtown (Centro) and in South Rio (the Zona Sul). Sample at least one samba school night.

Which are the best street parties?

The street band of Ipanema is the most famous and flamboyant one. The parties downtown (e.g. Cordão do Bola Preta) are the biggest.

Which are the best balls? 
High society attends the Magic Ball  at Hotel Copacabana Palace. For fun and a big night dance go to the Gay Gala Costume ball in Scala.  

When and where can I buy my tickets?

You only need to buy your tickets well in advance for the annual Samba Parade competition and the Magic Ball at Hotel Copacabana Palace. Some Scala balls sell out also quickly. See ticket details for all events.

What is a samba school?

It is an association of people in the same neighborhood preparing for the Samba Parade and entertaining the community with samba nights. They are not actual samba teaching institutions as their name may suggest.

Where can I learn to samba? 

Best to learn it just by watching others. Then have a go. You do not have to join a samba school. They do not offer courses or classes. Just go to a samba night at a school, watch and learn.

How can I participate?

Join in the street parties and march with the street bands. For the absolute knock-out experience parade yourself in costume in the Sambodromo