How to Celebrate Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

Brazilians call Rio de Janeiro, Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) and with good reason. Breathtaking mountain vistas, lush tropical forests and world-famous beaches like Ipanema and Copacabana surround this cosmopolitan city. But why go for the scenery? The true marvel of Rio is her culture and passionate people. See Brazilians put on a spectacular cultural display of color, music and dance. If you love to samba and want to party, don't miss the most unique Carnival celebration on earth.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Plan ahead. Brazil requires a tourist visa even for short visits, so check out the nearest Brazilian consulate for instructions. Also, Carnival officially begins 40 days before Easter, so the actual dates vary from year to year. Check your calendar and be sure to book a flight and hotel far in advance, as this is peek tourist season in Rio.
2. Get your tickets early. The Samba School Parade held at the Sambadromo on Sunday and Monday of Carnival weekend is the highlight event of the Carnival season. Samba schools (or teams) compete in this all-night spectacle that is a must-see. Keep in mind that tickets are expensive and sell out quickly. They can be purchased online or through a travel agency.
3. Spend at least a week in Rio during Carnival season. There is so much to do and see you won't want to miss a thing.
4. Watch a Samba School rehearse before the big parade. Rehearsals take place in the schools' respective neighborhoods but are open to the public and easily accessible by taxi. Arrive any time after 11 p.m. and be prepared to dance!
5. Go to a street parade called a banda or bloco. It's free and a good way to burn some calories as you samba in the streets with all the locals. There are dozens of these events held all over the city throughout the Carnival season (up to 2 weeks before and after Fat Tuesday). Check a travel guide for times and locations.
6. Buy an official banda T-shirt available only during the street parade. It makes an inexpensive and unique souvenir you can wear every day.
7. Visit one of the hundreds of Carnival Balls held on Friday, Saturday and Tuesday. Ticket prices are reasonable and sold at the door. Costumes are not required but many people do dress up, so be adventurous and creative!

Tips & Warnings

• Samba Schools are not schools at all; they are the organizations that compete in the parade and were formed by residents of the city's working class neighborhoods. Each school invests millions of dollars each year to design and make their own costumes and floats, and to write and choreograph their dances for the Samba Parade. The parade is not just a beautiful show; it is also a fierce competition that Brazilians take very seriously.
• When in doubt, talk to the locals; they know best. They can give you tips on the best venues for Carnival balls, parties and bandas. Also ask them where to shop for the best Carnival costumes and masks.
• Consider a Carnival Vacation Package. Many online travel agencies offer them and they will be able to set you up with the best venues. These packages usually include airfare, accommodations and tickets to the Samba Parade.
• Remember that Portuguese is the official language of Brazil and should not be confused with Spanish. While the languages may look the same on paper, they sound quite different. Get a Portuguese phrase book on tape to hear Brazilian pronunciations and memorize the essentials. English is not widely spoken, especially outside the tourist districts.
• Don't go it alone. They say there is safety in numbers and this is especially true for Carnival. All the festivities draw large crowds, and unfortunately, thieves take advantage of it. It's best to use the buddy system to stay safe. It's also advisable to leave any valuables, such as jewelry, cameras, watches and important documents, at the hotel. Only take any necessary cash with you and use a disposable camera if you want to take pictures.