When you think of Brazil, one word probably comes to mind: Carnival. It’s bold, it’s colourful, it’s mad (in the best way), and it’s something every traveller needs to tick off their bucket list at least once. Every year, when we ask our team where they want to go next, Rio (and Brazil in general) is always the number one place they want to experience for themselves. And we're making everybody's dreams come true this year!

 

On 29th May, we are launching our very first Rio Carnival tour, which will be six epic days in Rio de Janeiro over the festival period. You'll be able to experience the magic of the sambadrone, the epic blocos parties and the 10/10 vibes that Rio has to offer! It's the moment we've all been waiting for and we cannot wait to launch what we expect to be one of our most popular ever tours. Until then, if you want a sneak peek into our tips and tricks for this insane festival, check out this guide below to ensure that when you finally visit the Rio festival, you have the best time ever!

 

If you're planning to experience Rio Carnival in all its feathered, samba-ry glory, here’s your full breakdown on how to do it best – TruTravels style. From Blocos to Beats & Bucket List Moments. This is your ultimate guide to Brazil’s biggest party!

 

 

 

What Even Is Rio Carnival?

Rio Carnival is the biggest carnival celebration in the world, with millions of partygoers visiting every year. It’s held before Lent, usually in February or March, and the celebrations last for five days. Each day is filled with non-stop dancing, outrageous costumes, street parties (aka blocos), live music, and the iconic Sambadrome parades.

 

It’s a celebration of life, joy, and Brazilian culture. It’s one of the wildest, most unforgettable festivals on the planet.

 

 

What Are Blocos & Why Are They Unmissable?

 

Blocos are free street parties hosted all over Rio, each with its own vibe. Some have live samba bands, others blast funk, pop or Brazilian beats. Some draw small local crowds, others bring in hundreds of thousands of revellers. Cordão do Bola Preta is one of the most famous Blocos (classic Rio vibes, hundreds of thousands dancing in the streets!)

 

These parties happen day and night, across the whole city and knowing which ones to hit (and when) is key. That is why having a local guide is SUCH a good idea when in Brazil, they know the secret spots, where the biggest vibes are and when to arrive to experience the magic in the best way!

 

 

It's Not ALL About Partying Though...Still Want to See the Sights? Yes, You Can!

 

While Carnival is 24/7 madness, it’s still a great time to tick off Rio’s iconic highlights. You can't miss Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain if you want epic views over the bay and a great way to soak in Rio’s beauty before diving into your next BIG party. Copacabana Beach is also the perfect place to recharge and top up your tan after a big night out. Again, by choosing to experience the festival as part of a TruTravels tour you'll have a schedule ready to follow and a guide to keep you in check. They'll jam-pack your days to make sure you make the most of every moment!

 

 

The Sambadrome: The Heart of Rio Carnival

 

This isn’t just a parade. It’s a full-on moment. At the Sambadrome, samba schools from across Brazil compete in a dazzling, over-the-top, jaw-dropping show of feathers, glitter, dancing, floats, and music. Think Stricly Come Dancing x100000 and sprinkled with a little more culture (sorry Shirley...) It’s like Broadway meets Mardi Gras meets Brazilian passion, and it’s one of the best nights of your life, guaranteed.

 

Also, on the TruTravels Rio Carnival tour, your ticket is included. That means:

You skip the confusion of booking online or queuing forever.

You get great seats to see the action, without the stress of securing them early.

You experience it with the group, cheering and dancing the night away.

 

 

Why Go to Rio Carnival with us?

 

Rio Carnival is incredible, but it can also be hectic, overwhelming, and chaotic if you go solo.

With the 6-day Rio Carnival Tour, you get:

✔ A full itinerary that balances partying and exploring (no hidden extras either!)

✔ A local guide who knows the best blocos, safest areas, and top foodie spots!

✔ A ready-made crew of like-minded travellers to celebrate with

✔ Tickets to the Sambadrome and other must-dos sorted in advance

✔ Free time built-in to explore Rio your way

 

It’s zero stress, maximum vibes (aka the best way to really enjoy yourself in the madness of Rio!)

 

Ready to samba your way through the biggest party on earth? Check out our Rio Carnival Tour and lock in the trip of a lifetime. The spots on this Limited Edition adventure are expected to go fast! So set your alarms for 10am (BST) on 29th May and get ready to secure your ticket to Tru's BIGGEST party yet!