When you think of Rio de Janeiro, you likely think of Carnival (Carnaval, in Portuguese). The word “carnival” is derived from the Portuguese for “farewell to meat.” The multi-day festival marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance prior to Easter. As such, the Brazilians go out with a bang.
In 2025, Carnival officially begins February 28 and ends on March 8, but the festivities start as early as December.
“It’s the greatest party on planet earth,” said Fora Advisor Riker Pasterkiewicz, who lives in Rio.
Expect vibrant costumes, top-tier samba and a contagious energy. But there’s so much more to the festival, which beautifully showcases Brazil’s strong African influences, than you might be led to believe.
“Carnival also has a little something for everyone,” Riker added, “including ‘blocos’ (block parties) for pets, children and others who might not think the glitz and glam seen on TV is for them.”
As with any major event, it pays to book early — and to use an expert.
“It took me three times to get Carnival correct without friends who live here or professional help,” Riker said. “If this is going to be your one and only time to get Carnival right, you will want someone who is in the know rather than just showing up and hoping it all works out.”
A Fora Advisor will help you out, of course. In the meantime, here are some guidelines to get started.
How to get the most out of Rio's Carnival
Image courtesy of Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro
We’ll say it again: Use an expert. There is so much to navigate when it comes to Carnival, one of the world’s most legendary parties. As you start the planning process, keep the following in mind.
Buy tickets far in advance — and go for the good seats
Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, in Rio’s Santo Cristo neighborhood, is at the heart of the action. It’s an outdoor area where the top samba schools perform in Carnival’s many vibrant parades. If you purchase tickets, this is why you’re purchasing them. Fares range from $14 to just under $1,000, depending on the seating level and exclusivity you’re after.
Riker recommends you go all out: “Splurge — do not skimp — for the Camarote Sections,” he said, referring to the Sambódromo’s luxury private suites. “In addition to unlimited food and drinks, you will have an infinitely better experience. And if you have extra time to spend in Rio, go for the Champions Parade the Saturday after Carnival ends.”
Carnival is a full-day affair
One of the biggest misconceptions about Carnival is that it happens exclusively at night, but “that couldn’t be more incorrect,” Riker said. Instead, days are filled with numerous block parties, many of which start at 6 am and end by 7 pm.
“There are plenty of incredible nighttime parties,” Riker clarified, “but the essence of Carnival is during the day. Taking shots at 5 am is a time-honored tradition for many Cariocas (people from Rio) who love Carnival.”
Embrace the block parties
Carnival can be said to really be a series of local parties. But they’re not quite like the block parties you might be thinking of: barbecue, flag football, neighborhood docility, staying in one place. Unlike a traditional block party that stays in one location, Carnival is a series of local parties in constant motion.
“They're more like parades,” Riker said. “Think the vibe, drinks, food and fun of an American block party combined with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. All the fun moves and you move with it. Bring good walking shoes!”
Don’t try to fit it all in
Riker stressed that visiting Rio for a normal vacation and visiting the city for Carnival are two very distinct things. If you’re coming for Carnival, commit to Carnival. Reserve other tourist sites and activities for another trip. Here’s Riker’s sample Carnival roadmap:
Thursday February 27: Land in Rio and get acclimated to the city and timezone after an overnight flight.
Friday February 28: Squeeze in a few touristy activities during the day and take a much-needed siesta before the block parties start in the evening.
Saturday March 1: Block parties all day. Riker is partial to the band Amores Líquidos, which usually performs on the first full day of festivities.
Sunday March 2: Block parties again. Try to catch the band Nova Bad if you can.
Monday March 3: Carnival’s biggest block party starts at 6 am today. Start at the city center and parade through Rio’s main streets and port areas before ending up at Copacabana beach at sunset. This bloco is Riker’s favorite. He said it’s “unlike anything else you'll ever experience.”
Tuesday March 4: Fat Tuesday is usually an occasion for a themed block party. One year it was “Beyoncé,” another it was “Shakira’s Jelly.”
Wednesday March 5: Ash Wednesday marks the last day of block parties.
“Carnival is the only time you can ever feel like you've touched Nirvana after five days of nearly no sleep,” Riker said. “You will meet the greatest people, in the greatest mindset, who are down for anything.”
Where to stay during Carnival
Images courtesy of Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
Things sell out quickly, so plan ahead and book your accommodations with a Fora Advisor. People generally opt to stay in Rio’s Zona Sul (South Zone), which includes famous locations like Ipanema, Leblon and Copacabana. But Riker said to check out districts like Botafogo or Flamengo for greater proximity to the blocos, as well as for more approachable hotel rates.
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
If anyone knows how to deliver luxury with a strong sense of place, it's Belmond. Copacabana Palace is a study in elevated sophistication. You won’t be able to get over the glamorous, breezy suites, nor the colorful array of dining options, from Brazilian brunch at Pérgula to a Michelin-Starred pan-Asian meal at Mee Restaurant.
Fora’s Belmond Bellini Club partner perks include a $90 hotel credit, welcome amenities, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro (Ipanema)
This luxury beachfront hotel was designed by the famed French architect Philippe Starck, and it shows. The vibe is contemporary-chic, with a discreet, exclusive atmosphere reflecting Bossa Nova-era elegance. You’ll love the infinity pool, beach (where surfboards are complimentary for guests), curated experiences and gourmet restaurants. It’s no wonder the Fasano is our top-booked hotel in Brazil.
Fora Perks include a complimentary 50-minute massage for two, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
This supremely located five-star hotel embodies the glamour of Rio in the 50s: wood paneling, rounded forms, pops of color. Hit the beach, or the spa, and take in the beauty of your iconic surroundings.
Fora’s Accor Preferred by HERA partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
The pet-friendly Grand Mercure is clean and comfortable, overlooks the beach, comes with a well-equipped gym and has a beautifully approachable price point to boot. Riker said that his clients have always loved it.
Janeiro Hotel (Leblon)
For boutique charm with a contemporary and wellness-focused edge, head to Janeiro Hotel, on Leblon beach. It’s effortlessly cool, with lots of pale wood, natural materials, muted color palettes and a sustainably minded ethos.
Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro (Botafogo)
This local, hip and modern stay has a rooftop bar and pool, plus leafy interiors and locally influenced cuisine. Take in views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer before spending all day at one of the neighborhood's legendary blocos.