Rio Carnival Parade + Transport
Rio Carnival Parade
Being in Rio de Janeiro during Carnival and not going to the sambódromo should be considered a crime. With this ticket, you'll have access to the famous sambódromo of the Carioca city, which has a length of 550 meters. There, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the music and dance of one of the most impressive shows in the world.
Samba dancers on fascinating floats and fabulous costumes full of color and glitter. You'll witness one of the most famous experiences in Rio: the parade of the famous Brazilian Carnival. You'll see the six most prestigious samba schools of the city as we dance to the beat of the drums.
Each samba school must perform for at least 65 minutes, with a time limit of 82 minutes; if the time requirement is not met, points are deducted. This is the experience of a lifetime!
Parade Ticket Options
Access Group (February 13 and 14, 2026)
The Access Group performs some of the most exciting acts in the Samba Parade. The competition is intense, as the top school will move up to the Special Group the following year. They give it their all! Even though tickets for the Access Group parade are more affordable, the experience is still incredible, allowing you to enjoy the electrifying rhythms of the different samba schools’ percussion sections.
Special Group (February 15, 16, and 17, 2026)
The Special Group features the 12 best samba schools. They are responsible for one of the most famous shows of the Rio Carnival. Each school’s choreographers and designers prepare their performances, aiming for the coveted championship title, which brings fame and fortune to the winning school.
Champions Parade (February 21, 2026)
At the Champions Parade, you’ll see the top Special Group samba schools that previously won. Once the winners are announced on Ash Wednesday, the six leading schools return for the final showdown the following Saturday to compete for the prized title. This parade is the second most important event, showcasing the six main samba schools without the pressure of competition, giving everyone more space to enjoy the performance and celebrate their place at the top.
Seating Options
When booking, you can choose your preferred seating area for the parade at Rio de Janeiro’s Sambadrome. We offer two options: Grandstand and Special Booth.
You can check the Sambadrome map at the following link to locate the seating areas.
Transportation Info
If you choose the Grandstand, transportation from your hotel in South Rio de Janeiro to the Sambadrome at 6 pm is included.
Special Booth tickets include transportation from the following meeting point: Othon Palace Hotel (Av. Atlântica, 3264) at 7 pm.
More Information
Duration
10 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a tour assistant that speaks in English and other languages.
Included
Hotel pickup and drop off (depending on selection)
Entry to the Rio Sambodromo
Attend the parade from the selected section
When to book?
You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- The show represents local culture.
- The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
- The activity promotes local production.
- No printing of documentation required.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a gender equality policy.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Where are the booths located?
A - The booths are located just below the stands and above the front boxes (frisas).
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Q - What is so special about the Special Booths?
A - In the Special Booths, you'll be able to enjoy parties and shows between the intervals of the parade. In addition, they usually have buffet and open bar services (not included in the price).
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis, we offer tickets at official prices, with full transparency and exclusive benefits for our users. In a few exceptional cases (less than 5%), these rates may be slightly higher than the ticket office price as they include booking fees and/or audioguides. The advantage is that your spot is guaranteed, and you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket office.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Europa Tours Corporate name: ETOURBRAZIL DMC LTD Registered Office: Flat 28 Stanbury Court, 99, London, United Kingdom Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 12538512 Contact information Email: gianluca.fabris@etoursbrazil.rio Phone: +55 21 98806-5075
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
