Rio de Janeiro: Check out the Samba School parades at the Sambadrome

Check out the special group of Samba Schools from the stands Check out the 'greatest show on earth' for yourself
You'll get to experience the Rio de Janeiro samba school parade, which many call the 'greatest show on earth.' This amazing cultural event is all about its textures, drumming, and Afro-Brazilian beauty. The main parade happens at the Sambadrome, designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer, with a capacity for 80,000 people.

The Sambadrome Carnival is split into six days of parades, with 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 top six carnival schools from the 1st league)

Access Group (2nd division)
The Access Group schools are competing for a spot among the top schools next year. Four schools parade each night, bringing a lot of enthusiasm and beauty. Perfect for those who want to catch the carnival at a more budget-friendly price.

Special Group (1st league)
These are the most anticipated days, with the 12 biggest samba schools in Rio de Janeiro showcasing their amazing productions. These nights at the Sambadrome are pure magic, and that's why the tickets are super popular.

Champions Parade
On the night of the champions, the top six schools in the Special Group perform again. It's a must-see chance for anyone who wants to catch the year's winners in a special parade.

What's in the tickets:
Bilingual service (Portuguese and English)
We've got guides at the Sambadrome every night, speaking both Portuguese and English.
Exclusive freebies
Tips and deals for carnival events outside the Sambadrome

Getting to the Sambadrome
We offer guided transport from the meeting point, taking visitors to the sambadrome via public transport or shuttle (check availability and cost).

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.