Ultimate Guide to Rio Carnival 2025: Tickets, Tips, and Best Experiences​
Since childhood, I had watched the Rio Carnival in Brazil on TV, captivated by the dazzling costumes, infectious energy, and incredible samba dancers. I once thought they paraded like this every day. Though I had visited Rio before, I assumed the Brazilian Carnival was too chaotic or expensive. Is Rio Carnival safe for tourists? Is Rio Carnival expensive? These doubts kept me away—until fate landed me there in 2022. It was unforgettable, and I returned in 2024. Now, as I plan for Rio Carnival 2025 tickets, I want to help others experience the magic. Whether you're wondering how to navigate the legendary Rio Carnival parade, need a Rio Carnival guide, or want the best Rio Carnival tips, my journey might just inspire yours.
The Rio Carnival 2025 will take place from Friday, February 28th, to Tuesday, March 4th, 2025. The Champions Parade in Sambadrome will be on Saturday, March 8th. The Carnival dates change every year according to the religious calendar, Rio Carnival is always celebrated between Friday to Wednesday during these days Rio de Janeiro comes alive with parades, street parties (blocos), and endless celebrations. The Sambadrome Champions Parade always takes place on Saturday. In 2025, If you’re thinking of going to Rio Carnival, keep reading. The rest of this article shares tips and experiences from past Carnivals to help you be fully prepared and make the most of it.
RIO CARNIVAL SPECIAL GROUP PARADE IN 2024
is rio carnival worth it?
Absolutely! The Rio Carnival is worth going to! It's the biggest carnival festival in the world and a spectacle unlike anything you'll witness anywhere else or at any other time in Brazil. The most famous Carnival in the World is a grand celebration of Brazilian culture, featuring a vibrant explosion of colors, superhumanly energetic dances, magnificent costumes, and infectious music and melodies that will stay with you forever. If it's your first time visiting Rio, be prepared for crowded tourist spots, but rest assured, Rio is always magnificent. If you're planning to explore Rio during the Carnival, make sure to read my Rio de Jenairo in 5 days guide. On the other hand, if you're looking to escape the Carnival's hustle and bustle and prefer a more relaxed holiday experience, where you can unwind and chill on the beaches, stay tuned for my upcoming post on "A Peaceful Getaway During Rio Carnival." It's a must-read for those seeking a serene retreat amidst the festivities!
Rio Carnival Sambadrome Parades, the biggest Carnival Festival in the World
Is Rio Carnival safe for tourists?
Yes, Rio Carnival is safe for tourists. While stories of crime in Rio de Janeiro can be concerning, it's important to know that Rio Carnival is taken very seriously by the city, and many security precautions are implemented. During Carnival, there is an increased police presence, making it safer than most other times of the year. The streets and the Sambadrome stadium are heavily monitored to ensure a safe environment for everyone. However, it’s still important to practice common safety precautions, such as avoiding displaying valuables, staying aware of your surroundings, and sticking to well-lit areas at night. Keep reading for more Rio Carnival tips.
Capocabana night during Rio Carnival
what happens at the rio carnival
During Rio Carnival, the city transforms into a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture. The streets burst to life with "bands" and "blocks" (blocos), hosting lively, open-air parties that bring locals and tourists together. However, the true heart of the Carnival lies in the breathtaking parade experience at the iconic Sambadrome (Samba Stadium).
Rio Carnival: Blocos vs. Sambadrome – A Comparison of Two Iconic Experiences
Living the Rio Carnival on the streets was not my favorite experience. The blocos (street parties) are often crowded with drunk and sweaty teens, and navigating through the crowds can feel overwhelming as you may brush against others. Unfortunately, the streets sometimes smell unpleasant, as the available toilets often lack enough capacity to handle the crowds. However, it’s important to note that this is typically limited to certain neighborhoods and specific times during the event. Not every part of the day is chaotic, and there are moments when the atmosphere is more relaxed and enjoyable. Different neighborhoods offer different vibes, and with the right Rio Carnival 2025 tips and tricks, you can find the perfect balance between street celebrations and the grandeur of the Sambadrome 2025.
RIO CARNIVAL BLOCOS - STREET PARTIES
Why the Sambadrome is Essential?
Many people wonder if they can fully enjoy Carnival without visiting the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, the iconic Sambadrome stadium built specifically for Rio Carnival parades. While street parties ("blocos") are free and fun, the true heart of Carnival lies in the Sambadrome Brazil. It’s where the most stunning floats, costumes, and samba school performances take center stage. I, too, initially thought I could skip buying a ticket. However, every image I had ever seen of Rio Carnival—the vibrant costumes, samba dancers, and larger-than-life floats—was from the Rio Carnival Sambadrome. Experiencing it firsthand exceeded all my expectations. The atmosphere, the performances, and the sheer grandeur were worth every penny I spent.
Sambadrome stadium for samba
Rio Carnival Sambadrome Parades: 2025 Schedule and Must-See Highlights
The Rio Carnival Sambadrome parades are the heart and soul of the festivities, offering 6 unforgettable days of dazzling performances and vibrant energy. These parades are divided into three categories: the Access Group, the Special Group, and the Champions’ Parade. The Access Group includes samba schools competing to move up to the Special Group. The Special Group features Rio’s top 12 samba schools, while the Champions’ Parade celebrates the 6 best schools with a stunning final performance. Here’s a breakdown of the 2025 schedule:
February 28, 2025 (Friday): Access Group (2nd league) – Watch rising samba schools compete for a spot in the top tier.
March 1, 2025 (Saturday): Access Group (2nd league) – Another chance to see the future stars of samba in action.
March 2, 2025 (Sunday): Special Group (1st league) – The elite samba schools take the stage with jaw-dropping performances.
March 3, 2025 (Monday): Special Group (1st league) – More spectacular displays from the top-tier schools.
March 4, 2025 (Tuesday): Special Group (1st league) – The final day of intense competition among the best.
March 8, 2025 (Saturday): Champions’ Parade – The grand finale! The six winning samba schools return for an electrifying “All-Star Parade” that celebrates their victory in style.
RIO CARNAVAL SPECIAL GROUP PARADE 2024
Are the Rio Carnival Tickets Expensive?
The cost of Rio Carnival 2025 tickets varies based on seating. Prices start as low as $30 for basic seats and can reach several thousand dollars for luxury options like front-box camarotes. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a VIP experience, there’s a ticket option for you. In both 2022 and 2024, I paid $110 USD and $125 USD per person, respectively, for Sambadrome grandstand seats in Sector 6. These seats, located on cement stairs, are unassigned and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Even those who purchased tickets last-minute told me they paid the same price, showing there isn’t much fluctuation in costs closer to the event.
Sambadrome grandstand seats in Sector 6
How to get your Rio Carnival Digital Tickets in 2025
MY RIO CARNIVAL TICKET VOUCHER AND INSTRUCTIONS
Since 2024 you do not need to pick up your tickets in person anymore. Once you purchase your online tickets from the official organizators website, to redeem the tickets, you need to download the app Quentro, available on the Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS. The process is very simple; follow the instructions in the email and create a QR code for each ticket within the app. However, there is a critical detail to note: While the organizers claims that internet or a SIM card wasn’t required to access the QR codes at the entrance, this is not true and we experienced it in person in 2024! For security reasons the QR codes are dynamic and update every time you open the app. This means that you need internet and screenshots or printouts of the QR codes won’t work at the Sambadrome entrance.
MY RIO CARNIVAL TICKET PURCHASE EXPERIENCES IN 2022 AND 2024
In 2022 I purchased by Rio Carnival ticket just 2 days before the Special Group Parade at the authorized sales office of the official Rio Carnival Organization which was located at the Hotel Atlântico Copacabana on the first floor. The staff were incredibly helpful, explaining all the details about seating and pricing. It was just after the Covid 19 pandemic recovery so Rio was not very crowded so I was able to find seats at last minute.
In 2024, I wanted to relive this experience, this time with my husband. I purchased our Rio Carnival 2024 tickets online in September 2023 through the official website, RioCarnaval.org. After my purchase, they immediately sent a confirmation email with crucial notes (see the image below). The email explained that the voucher provided wasn’t the actual ticket. To retrieve the tickets, I needed to visit the Hotel Atlântico Copacabana before the event. But hopefully just before 1 month to the Carnival event, Rio Carnaval tickets had gone digital! Read below to learn how to get your Rio Carnival tickets and enter to the Sambadrome without any problems!
Tips to Save on Rio Carnival Tickets
Early Bird Discounts: Tickets are often cheaper when sales first open several months before Carnival. Monitor the official Rio Carnival website for deals.
Avoid Scams:Carnival ticket fraud is common, so always purchase directly from the official website or trusted resellers.
Best Sections: Grandstand seats in Sectors 6 and 7 offer central views at affordable prices, making them a top choice for first-time attendees.
ESSENTIAL TIPS WHEN PURCHASING YOUR RIO CARNIVAL TICKETS IN 2025
Purchase tickets early through RioCarnaval.org to secure the best seats.
Check whether the ticketing process requires digital redemption or physical pick-up at the Hotel Atlântico Copacabana.
Download the Quentro app and ensure you have internet access or a SIM card for a smooth entry.
What Is the Best Day to Attend Rio Carnival at the Sambadrome?​
Best Days to Attend Rio Carnival at the Sambadrome are the last 2 days; either Tuesday or Saturday:
The Champions Parade: A celebration of the best performances. Will be held on March 8, 2025 (Saturday)
The 2nd Day of the Special Group: When the most competitive and spectacular samba schools perform. Will be held on March 4, 2025 (Tuesday)
best seats for rio carnival
The Sambadrome is divided into sectors, each offering different experiences and price points:
Central Sectors (6, 7, 8, 9):
Offer the best views as the parades slow down here.
Sector 6 is near the judges, where dancers perform their best moves.
Sectors 6, 7, and 8 are popular with locals (Cariocas), creating an authentic atmosphere filled with singing and dancing. It is more enjoyable to experience the Carnival with locals singing and dancing. They are also very educated and have good manners. You should be careful with the foreign tourists there, on two occations they tried to steal our seats. Fortunately, locals stepped in and defended our spots.
Sector 9 is a favorite among tourists due to allocated seating.
Sectors to Avoid:
Sectors 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, and 12 are less central, meaning the parades pass through quickly.
Sector 10 is the cheapest and mostly occupied by locals, but it lacks the vibrant views of the central sectors.
RIO CARNIVAL 2024 PARADE SPECIAL GROUPS
Sambadrome Map to choose the best sector for Rio Carnival
When to arrive for Rio Carnival?
The Rio Carnaval Sambadrome gates open at 19:00, but the first samba school parade doesn’t begin until 22:30, continuing all night until around 6:00 a.m.
Arriving early, as soon as the gates open, is crucial for those with grandstand tickets, as seating is unallocated.
By arriving early, you can secure a front-row spot, avoid long entry queues, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Sambadrome 1 hour before the parade
ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR YOUR RIO CARNIVAL EXPERIENCE
Comfortable Seating:
Grandstand seats are concrete, so bring or purchase a cushion for comfort. Vendors sell cushions at the entrance for 15-30 Reais (cash only).
What to Wear:
Dress in cheerful, glittery, and colorful clothes to match the Carnival spirit.
Wear comfortable shoes since you'll likely be standing and dancing all night.
Food and Drink:
You can bring your own food and drinks (no glass bottles). Free water and cups are available throughout the night.
Safety and Essentials:
Keep valuables like money, credit cards, and phones in a closed bag worn in front of your body.
Use an additional bag or scarf to save your seat when leaving for restrooms or purchases.
Protect Your Spot:
For the best view, stand near the balustrades. Locals are respectful of reserved spots, but foreign tourists may attempt to take them during breaks. Tying a bag or scarf to your spot can help.
​HOW TO GET TO RIO CARNIVAL SAMBADROME
The most convenient and enjoyable way to reach the Rio Carnival Sambadrome is by metro. During the Carnival period, the metro operates 24 hours, and you can enjoy a closer look at the vibrant costumes of fellow attendees and exhibitors on your way. Metro Stations for Different Sambadrome SectorsBe aware that the metro station you use depends on the sector of your ticket:
For Sectors 2, 4, and 6, get off at Praça Onze Station for the shortest walk to your entrance.
For all other sectors (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13), get off at Central Station and walk approximately 700 meters to the Sambadrome. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to avoid the walk.
Safety Tips for Traveling to the SambadromeWalking at night during Carnival is generally safe as the Federal Police implement extra security measures. However, avoid taking lonely streets to ensure your safety.
Our front seats (not allocated) at the Sector 6
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUR RIO CARNIVAL
Get a good night's sleep beforehand because the event lasts all night long. The Sambadrome opens at 19:00, but the parades don't start until 22:00 and continue until 6:00 a.m.
You can easily find Uber and taxis when leaving the Sambadrome, even if you leave early, as we did.
There are no ATMs at the Sambadrome area, but the kiosks and vendors near the grandstands all accept credit cards.
Since the grandstands are made of concrete, it's a good idea to bring or purchase a cushion for seating, even if you won't be seated much (Brazilians stay up and dance until morning). At the entrance of the Sambadrome, many vendors sell cushions, but they only accept cash. We negotiated the price and purchased them for 15,000 Reais each instead of 30,000 Reais per cushion.
If you have grandstand tickets, you won't have allocated seats or chairs. Arrive as early as 19:00, and you'll have the chance to find a front-row seat. The best view is in the first row, close to the balustrades. You can use a cushion to save your seat for resting and stand up to stay at the balustrades to watch the parades pass. Everyone respects each other's seats, and there are no arguments or chaos.
However, twice, foreign tourists tried to steal our standing spot at the balustrades during the break when we were seated just behind them. It is better to tie your bag (without valuables in it) or clothes to the balustrades to defend your spot. We were helped by locals to defend and regain our standing spots, and even though we asked for help from the people on duty, they refused to assist!
It is enjoyable to observe locals wearing colorful and shiny clothes and singing and dancing during the Parades.
You can bring your food and any kind of drink (no glass bottles are allowed).
Free water and free plastic cup offered all the time.
Brazilians wear cheerful, colorful, shiny, glittery clothes and crazy make ups. You may want to enjoy and exaggerate with your clothing to be a part of it. It is also important to wear as comfortable as possible, especially the shoes.
Carry with you only the essentials, money, credit card and your phone but keep them in a closed bag and in front of your body all the time. Bring some additional unvaluble bag or cloth or scarf to occupy you seat when you leave for the restroom o make purchases.
carnival in luxury: The Glamorous Rio Carnival Balls
If you’re truly passionate about the Carnival spirit and want to experience it at its most extravagant, the Rio Carnival Balls are an option to consider—if your budget allows. The most famous of these is the Copa Ball (Baile do Copa) at the Copacabana Palace, known for its high-profile guests, dazzling costumes, and red-carpet glamour. Tickets start at $900 USD for standing access and go up to $1,700 USD for premium seating. All tickets include an open bar, buffet, and access to all areas of the event. The dress code is strict: luxury Carnival costumes or black-tie attire only—no flip-flops, jeans, or casual wear. While it’s a pricey experience, the Copa Ball offers an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and glamour for those who want to take their Carnival celebration to the next level.