Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro is one of the biggest parties in South America, if not the world. It is associated the world over with costumes, dancing and rhythmic melodies. Every year the week-long festival attracts millions of people and is televised around the world. It is synonymous with masked balls, street parades and the louder the music the better. The city stops what it’s doing for the week to join the all day and night festivities. Since 1723 Rio Carnaval has been staged 46 days before Easter to prepare for the abstinence of Lent.
The main highlight of the festival is the Samba school dance off. Each of the participating schools from across Brazil come together to show off their best costumes, floats, music and choreography to channel their chosen theme. Each school could have hundreds of dancers, all working together to impress the judges in their 80-minute time slot. Usually a handful of the best dancers will go at the very top of the float to smile and wave, while the rest gather around the bottom working the crowds into a frenzy.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday are the biggest festival days, with the main parade taking place in the Sambadrome in downtown Rio. Everyone joins in in any way they can – beating instruments, dressing up and dancing in the huge crowds. Everybody in Rio knows how to do the national style of dance popular in Brazil, and this is the time to show off the skills. It all culminates in a celebration on the final day with the top six Samba schools competing for the coveted first place trophy and accolades.
Accommodation can be costlyWhile Carnaval in Rio is on almost everyone's bucket list, finding accommodation that won't cost a small fortune is one of the most useful skills a traveler can have. Fortunately hostels are a great option if you are looking to enjoy Rio on a budget.
1. Vanazul Hostel
Perfect for adventure seekers, hikers and sports enthusiasts. Public transport links are simple from here and you’ll be just a 5-minute walk from São Conrado beach and the largest urban forest in the world.
2. Rio Surf n' Stay Backpackers
A spacious house within easy walking distance of the Macumba Beach in Recreio it features tropical paradise surfing beaches and you’ll get a buffet breakfast each day to give you the energy to enjoy it. It’s a bit further out from the city but it’s close to good transport links to make your way in quickly and easily.
3. Casa Mango Mango
Built by Julia Lopes, a Brazilian novelist, journalist, playwright and lecturer and hosted many a night for the local literati of the early 20th century. Here you’ll be right next to the best nightlife of Rio while still staying in an area proud of is incredible colonial architecture.
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4. Albergue Vila Carioca Hostel
Located just ten minutes Copacabana and the Sugar Loaf. It offers an area for sunbathing when you’re beat from all the partying, free breakfast and helpful staff.
5. Bellas Artes Guesthouse
Perfect if you’re looking to experience a more authentic Rio de Janeiro, this hostel is just the place. It’s located in the bohemian and colourful Santa Teresa neighbourhood, has free WiFi and also offers free breakfast.
6. Ace Backpackers Youth Hostel
Found in the Botafogo neighbourhood, thanks to its bar and café Ace Backpackers Youth Hostel is a great place for meeting people. Definitely a party hostel! You’ll also love the view of Corcovado from the veranda.
