Rio Carnival

On arrival into Rio you will be transferred to your hotel, day at leisure.

Known as the ''Cidade Maravilhosa'', or Marvellous City, Rio never fails to amaze with its sandy beaches, carefree lifestyle and unparalleled natural beauty. As the capital of Brazil until 1960, Rio is today one of the most culturally and economically prominent cities in the country, receiving more tourists than any other part of Brazil.

After departing from the hotel, the tour takes a scenic drive from Copacabana beach, continuing along Botafogo beach and passing the Palácio Guanabara, official residence of the State´s Governor, on the way to Corcovado Hill (704m), and the greatest national icon – The Christ Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro. Here, you will have time to enjoy panoramic views of Rio and appreciate the giant statue, which was recently named as one of the seven new wonders of the world. From here, the tour continues to the district of Urca and the world-famous Sugar Loaf, where you will board the first cable car to the top of Urca Hill (215m), which offers spectacular views of Guanabara Bay. A second cable car will take you on to the Sugar Loaf (395m), giving you a chance to take in the spectacular 360-degree views of the city and surrounds. Upon descending from the Sugarloaf, we pass through the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema en route to a traditional Brazilian BBQ lunch at a local Churrascaria (lunch is included - all beverages are at your own expense).
Following lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Maracanã Stadium (Bellini´s statue and Hall of Fame. Entry into the stadium is not included) and a stop at the Sambadrome. While in the city’s historic downtown area, you will have a chance to see the Duque de Caxias Palace, Itamaraty Palace, Tiradentes Square and Lapa Arches, followed by a visit to the Metropolitan Cathedral. From here the tour will also make a quick stop to visit the Selaron Stairs, an amazing urban work of art by the late Jorge Selaron.
Returning to the hotel along Aterro do Flamengo, we pass by the Monument to the Fallen in World War II and the beaches of Flamengo and Botafogo.
Lunch and all entrance fees (for Corcovado & Sugarloaf) are included.

You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the Sambadrome, the venue for the Parade. This is a shuttle service that includes a pick up from your hotel and drop off safely within the gates of the Sambadrome within 2 blocks of the entrance to the sector booked.
On completion of the Parade, please make your way to the pick up location for the shuttle service back to your hotel.
The highlight of Rio Carnival is undoubtedly the Rio Carnival Parade called the Samba Parade or Samba Schools Parade, a totally unique event in the world.
The Rio Samba Parade is the review of a fierce competition between the Rio samba schools. The judges and spectators watch the principal parades in the Sambodromo which was especially built for this event.
The Samba Parade is something everybody should experience at least once in their life. Mingle with the crowds and join the Brazilians and Cariocas (the people of Rio) in the world’s biggest party.

Famed for its breathtaking setting, Rio is undoubtedly one of the most attractive cities in the world. Enjoy your day at leisure by exploring some of its remarkable sites or take the opportunity to relax on one of Rio’s famous beaches such as Ipanema or Copacabana.

You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport for your onward flight