The Carnival in Rio De Janeiro is believed to be the biggest Carnival in the world with over 2 million people shaking it in the streets in the days leading up to Lent, it’s a spectacular and overwhelming event, you definitely want to experience it once in your lifetime.
We arrived in Rio in the midst of Carnival Season, flying in from Houston, TX.
My Portuguese is non-existent, but my husband’s tiny bit of Portuguese allowed for a basic conversation with the taxi/Uber driver. Be aware that the Taxi fees in the time of carnival will be higher than usual due to the high traffic density and street closures for street parties.
Our Hotel, located in Lapa, was fabulous. The location was very convenient to attend most of the Parties and just a 5 minutes walk away from the stadium where all the parades took place. Many blogs and websites will tell you to stay away from the downtown area for safety reasons but I found the area quite safe. These places aren’t as bad as you may think.
Be aware that accommodation is more expensive than usual when the Carnival is on.
You will realize while walking around that you will come across many “Blocos” which are moving or stationery street parties and they are everywhere. If you need help to decide which Street Party you may want to attend, be sure check the internet as they list where they currently are. You will have pretty much 24/7 partying options for the time of Carnival. These scenes are full of pickpockets so make sure to keep your belongings safely on you in fanny packs and make sure to carry just the most necessary items on you.
For The Parades, I would highly recommend to buying tickets in advance to assure you’re getting the desired place at the stadium. The sections fill up real quick and the leftover tickets become pricier. The parades will perform in front of the referee. So I would strongly suggest, reserving a spot close to the middle sections to be able to see those performances. There are parades every night but the main parade is on the Sunday. The parades usually will start at 9pm or 10pm and are going on until the next morning.
It was a true” pinch me!” moment when we attended the legendary Copacabana Ball at the Belmond Copacabana palace. This is the place where Politicians, celebrities, international icons and Rio’s elite celebrate carnival with fantastic food, wonderful live bands and extravagant entertainment for almost 100 years. It’s almost overwhelming how outrageous colors are splashed across every scene, with attention to every detail.
It is a truly dazzling experience, just moving through the halls of the ball. And soak in the beautiful scenery. Every guest feels special to walk the red carpet as you enter the event, past a crowd photographers and onlookers pressed against the protective fences and security guards. At the entrance awaits a band with wonderful traditional live music and then up the stairs you will be greeted by a chorus of dancers in animal costumes.
Stepping into the main hall is like entering into the jungle, where animals and foliage surrounds you. This is an effect created by the thousands of real trees, fan plants and flowers clustered around the room and the multiple animal statues and performers costumed as various animals. In several rooms you will have the opportunity to grab campaign or a cocktail at the bar, enjoy fantastic food in the dining hall, or take to the dance floor alongside samba dancers and different life bands.
It is always important to know that this Ball has a dress code and you have to make sure to attend in a tuxedo or ball gown. You also have the option to dress up in tasteful costumes and extravagant headpieces. Victor and I love any excuse to dress up and I was excited to attend this event.
The best and cheapest place to get tickets to the Ball is the official hotel website. Make sure to email or call the hotel directly to make the purchase. A lot of online agency will offer tickets as well however these will come with a significant mark up.
