Ultimate Guide to Rio Carnival 2024: Tickets, Tips, and Best Experiences​

Since my childhood, I have watched the Rio Carnival on TV news and been fascinated by the beautiful Brazilian girls in extravagant costumes dancing incredibly. I used to think they walked like this every day and every night on the streets, and I always wanted to go and see them up close. As I grew older and visited Rio a couple of times, I never considered going during the carnival, thinking it would be inaccessible, unreachable, and too chaotic. Well, by a stroke of luck, I happened to be in Rio during Carnival in 2022 and returned again in 2024! 
​I would like to share my Rio Carnival experience with those who had the same doubts and prejudices I once had before I went, to encourage and guide them in getting the maximum taste of this legendary and unique event.

When Will Rio Carnival 2025 Be Held?

The Rio Carnival 2025 will take place from Friday, February 28th, to Tuesday, March 4th, 2025. These are the days when the city comes alive with parades, street parties (blocos), and endless celebrations.
If you’re thinking of going, 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 CARNAVAL 2024

​IS rio CARNIVAL WORTH IT?

Absolutely! Attending Rio Carnival is an unforgettable experience that combines dazzling parades, electrifying energy, and the rich culture of Brazil.
Why the Sambadrome is Essential?
Many people wonder if they can fully enjoy Carnival without visiting the Sambadrome, the iconic stadium built specifically for Rio Carnival’s breathtaking parades. While street parties ("blocos") are free and fun, the true heart of Carnival lies in the Sambadrome. 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 Sambadrome. Experiencing it firsthand exceeded all my expectations. The atmosphere, the performances, and the sheer grandeur were worth every penny I spent.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Sambadrome!
If you're still asking, “Is Rio Carnival worth it?” the answer is a resounding yes! From the thrilling parades to the energy of the crowd, Carnival in Rio offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re dancing at a bloco or marveling at the spectacle in the Sambadrome, it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.

Is Experiencing Rio Carnival on the Streets Enough? What to Expect from Rio Carnival Street Parties

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.

RIO CARNAVAL SPECIAL GROUP PARADE 2024

Are the Rio Carnival Tickets Expensive?
How Much Do Rio Carnival Tickets Cost?

How Much Do Rio Carnival Tickets Cost?
The cost of Rio Carnival tickets can range from as low as $30 USD for basic seats to several thousand dollars for luxury options like front-box camarotes. Whether you're on a budget or looking for a premium experience, there’s a ticket to suit every need.
My Experience with Ticket Prices
In both 2022 and 2024, I paid $110 USD and $125 USD per person, respectively, for 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.
Tips to Save on Rio Carnival Tickets

1. Early Bird Discounts: Tickets are often cheaper when sales first open several months before Carnival. Monitor the official Rio Carnival website to catch these deals.
2. Avoid Scams: Carnival ticket fraud is common, so always purchase directly from the official website or trusted resellers.
3. Sector Recommendations: Grandstand seats in Sectors 6 and 7 are popular for their central views and affordable pricing, making them a great choice for first-time attendees.

By following these tips, you can enjoy Rio Carnival without breaking the bank!

Special Group Parades Sambadrome

Rio Carnaval Tickets - How and Where to Purchase, and How to Pick Them Up

​A Surprising Encounter with Rio Carnaval (April 2022)
When I planned a trip to Rio de Janeiro with my mom in April 2022, I wasn’t expecting to experience Carnaval at all! Due to COVID-19 regulations, the iconic parade dates had been shifted from February to April. It was a delightful surprise, and I was eager to secure tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime event.
At our hotel in Copacabana, they offered tickets, but I decided to go with the official Rio Carnaval ticket office for peace of mind. Following the instructions on the official Rio Carnaval website, I tracked down their authorized sales office at the Hotel Atlântico Copacabana, located on the first floor.
The staff were incredibly helpful, explaining all the details about seating and pricing. I was thrilled to find excellent seats in one of the best sectors without overspending.

Purchasing Rio Carnaval Tickets for 2024

In 2024, I wanted to relive this experience, this time with my husband. To ensure a hassle-free experience, I bought 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.

MY RIO CARNIVAL TICKET VOUCHER AND INSTRUCTIONS

​A New Digital Ticketing System in 2024
By the end of January 2024, the organizers announced an exciting change: Rio Carnaval tickets had gone digital! To redeem the tickets, we had to download the app Quentro, available on the Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS.
The process was simple:

1. Follow the instructions in the email.
2. Create a QR code for each ticket within the app.

However, there was a critical detail to note: The QR codes are dynamic and update every time you open the app. This means that screenshots or printouts of the QR codes won’t work at the Sambadrome entrance.
Internet Issues at the Entrance
​​While the organizers claimed that internet or a SIM card wasn’t required to access the QR codes at the entrance, this wasn’t entirely true in our case. We experienced some trouble getting in without an active internet connection. Fortunately, one of us had a SIM card, and we were able to resolve the issue and enter successfully.
Key Takeaways for Buying and Using Rio Carnaval Tickets

• 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.

Why Choose Official Rio Carnaval Tickets?

Booking directly through the official Rio Carnaval website ensures legitimacy and reliability, avoiding unnecessary risks or overpaying. Plus, the support team is knowledgeable and responsive.
Now that you know how to purchase, redeem, and use Rio Carnaval tickets, get ready to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most spectacular celebrations!

Rio Carnaval Ticket Purchase:

Where to Buy Rio Carnaval Tickets?

• Purchase your Rio Carnaval tickets from a reliable source, such as the official website RioCarnival.org.

​Ticket Delivery Options

• Visit the Customer Service Center at the Hotel Atlântico Copacabana to buy or collect physical tickets.
• For online purchases, follow the instructions to generate a digital QR code through the Quentro app, eliminating the need to pick up tickets in person.

Tip for Digital Tickets:

• ​Ensure you have internet access to access your dynamic QR codes at the Sambadrome entrance for a smooth experience.

Sambadrome 1 hour before the parade

​Carnival at the Sambadrome: Schedule and Highlights

During Rio Carnival, the streets come alive with "bands" and "blocks" (blocos) hosting lively parties. However, none of these compare to the breathtaking parade experience at the Sambadrome (Samba Stadium).
Carnival at the Sambadrome: Schedule and HighlightsThe Rio Carnival Sambadrome parades span five unforgettable days:

1. Access Group (2 Days) – Featuring emerging samba schools competing for a spot in the Special Group.
2. Special Group (2 Days) – The top-tier samba schools battle for glory.
3. Champions' Parade (1 Day) – A grand showcase of the winners from the Special Group.

What Is the Best Day to Attend Rio Carnival at the Sambadrome?​

Best Days to AttendFor the ultimate experience, choose either:

• The Champions' Parade – A celebration of the best samba performances.
• The 2nd Day of the Special Group – When the most competitive and spectacular performances occur.

RIO CARNIVAL 2024 PARADE SPECIAL GROUPS

​How to Prepare for the Rio Carnaval Sambadrome: Arrival Time, Best Seats, and Essential Tips

What Time to Arrive at the Sambadrome​?

• 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.

Waiting at the Sambadrome for the Parades to start.

Choosing the Best Seats at the Sambadrome​

The Sambadrome is divided into sectors, each offering different experiences and price points:

1. 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.
2. 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.

Sambadromo Map

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​Essential Tips for Your Sambadrome 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 SAMBODROMO/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

tips to Optimizing Your Carnaval Night in sambadrome!

• 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.