Rio de Janeiro: Watch the Samba Schools parade at the Sambadrome

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Seasonal & Holiday Activities Tours Culture & history Music activities Sightseeing Shows & musicals

Watch the parades of the Special Group Samba Schools from the bleachers. See the "greatest show on earth" with your own eyes.

Highlights

  • The greatest show on earth
  • Rio de Janeiro Carnival
  • Parades at the Sambadrome

Description

You will have the chance to experience the parade of Rio de Janeiro's samba schools, considered by many to be the 'greatest show on earth.' This grand cultural event is marked by its textures, drumming, and Afro-Brazilian beauty. The main parade takes place at the Sambadrome, designed by famous architect Oscar Niemeyer, with a capacity for 80,000 people. The Sambadrome Carnival is divided into six days of parades, in two different leagues (special group and access group): February 28, 2026 (Friday): Access Group (2nd league) March 1, 2026 (Saturday): Access Group (2nd league) February 15, 2026 (Sunday): Special Group (1st league) February 16, 2026 (Monday): Special Group (1st league) February 17, 2026 (Tuesday): Special Group (1st league) February 26, 2026 (Saturday): Champions Parade (with the six best schools from the 1st division carnival) Access Group (2nd division) The schools in the Access Group compete for a place among the top schools in the following year. Four schools parade each night, bringing lots of excitement and beauty. Ideal for those who want to watch the carnival at a more affordable price. Special Group (1st division) These are the most eagerly awaited days, with the 12 biggest samba schools in Rio de Janeiro presenting their grandiose productions. These are nights of pure magic at the Sambadrome, which is why tickets are the most sought after. Parade of Champions On the night of the champions, the six best schools from the Special Group return to perform. It is an unmissable opportunity for those who want to watch the winners of the year in a special parade. What is included in the tickets: Bilingual service (Portuguese and English) We have guides at the Sambadrome every night, in Portuguese and English. Exclusive gifts Tips and promotions for extra-Sambadrome carnival events. Transportation to the Sambadrome We offer guided transportation from the meeting point, taking visitors to the Sambadrome via public transportation or shuttle (check availability and cost).

Includes

Ticket to the parade of the Special Group Samba Schools of Rio de Janeiro

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Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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