
Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 27 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory worth booking?
Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory is a 3-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $109 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 27 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (27)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $109 per person
Find out more about the Rio carnival visiting areas that the public is's normally allowed to visit. Dress up in costumes, learn the basics of samba from dancers and the history of samba, see floats, taste a caipirinha and other essentials of this celebration. After pickup at your place, your guide takes you to explore the Carnaval Factory for a behind-the-scenes look. In this warehouse, see how the showy costumes worn in the parades are made. Admire the details of the floats that parade through the sambadrome. Then, head to the exhibition hall to learn about the history of samba and Rio's carnival, which has been celebrated for over a century. During the visit, feel the atmosphere of union and emotion that is felt during Carnival. Continue to the backstage dressing rooms, where you will have the opportunity to try on some costumes. To end this experience, a professional dancer will give a brief samba class. Finally, enjoy a delicious caipirinha before being dropped at your place.
What you get
About this experience
Find out more about the Rio carnival visiting areas that the public is's normally allowed to visit. Dress up in costumes, learn the basics of samba from dancers and the history of samba, see floats, taste a caipirinha and other essentials of this celebration. After pickup at your place, your guide takes you to explore the Carnaval Factory for a behind-the-scenes look. In this warehouse, see how the showy costumes worn in the parades are made. Admire the details of the floats that parade through the sambadrome. Then, head to the exhibition hall to learn about the history of samba and Rio's carnival, which has been celebrated for over a century. During the visit, feel the atmosphere of union and emotion that is felt during Carnival. Continue to the backstage dressing rooms, where you will have the opportunity to try on some costumes. To end this experience, a professional dancer will give a brief samba class. Finally, enjoy a delicious caipirinha before being dropped at your place.
What's included
Included
- Professional licensed private tour guide.
- Guided tour of the Acadêmicos da Grande Rio.
- Hotel, airport or port pick-up and drop-off. (Within Rio de Janeiro City)
- Transport by fully-equipped vehicle.
- Private driver for groups bigger 4 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.
- Samba class with a professional dancers.
- Welcome caipirinha.
- Costumes to wear and photograph.
Not included
- Tips. (optional)
What you'll see and do
Cidade Do Samba
At the selected time, your guide will meet you at your hotel and drive to the Carnival Experience in downtown of Rio. Do you know how its most popular celebration is planned? We'll find out. We'll visit the backstage of the Rio de Janeiro carnival, that is, the areas behind the scenes that the public does isn't normally allowed to visit. In these rooms, we'll see how the elaborate costumes displayed in the parades are fashioned. We'll also admire the details of the floats that parade through the Marquês de Sapucaí sambadrome.
45 minutes here
Cidade Do Samba
Next, we'll move on to the exhibition hall to learn about the history of samba and the Carioca carnival, which has been celebrated for over a century. During the visit to this special venue, we'll feel the atmosphere of unity and emotion that is felt during Carnival. It's not surprising that this event is not considered a mere party, but a way of life. The visit will continue to one of the backstage dressing rooms, where you'll have the opportunity to try on some of Rio's carnival costumes. To round off this experience, a professional dancer will give you a short samba lesson - everybody to the dance floor! Lastly, we'll enjoy a delicious caipirinha and, after an hour and a half of touring the backstage areas, we'll end this incredible visit.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Options you can book
Monday Special Deal
Only for hotel pickups at 9:00: Enjoy the exact same tour experience at a special Monday reduced rate. Available only on Mondays at 9:00am. Pickup included
Standard Experience
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, pt, en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Gregtur Turismo
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 27 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
27 verified traveler reviews for Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Simple the Best Samba Experience!
The tour was amazing and so informative. Our guide Vitor was the BEST! He was veey knowledgeable, nice, friendly; he was excellent. I recommend this tour!!
via Tripadvisor
Fun and engaging
Attended this City of Samba tour with friends and family. Was a fun and interesting tour to see this perspective of Rio Carnival, the passion, work and joy behind this famous event. Staff presented well and made the experience informative, upbeat and engaging.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience....
Amazing experience. Informational, educational and fun. The costumes and props were outstanding and the perfect highlight. Would definitely recommend this tour and company. The guide Newton was awesome.
via Viator
Amazing experience
Awesome experience. Better than expected. The guide Newton was amazing. Informational, educational and fun. Loved the costumes and pictures. Will definitely recommend. Excellent tour company.
via Tripadvisor
Experienced the real carnival
Our pick up for the Samba experience was scheduled for 15:00. But our guide Vitor sent us a message around 14:15 saying he was in the vicinity and like to offer us an early pickup thereby he could take us to a few other attractions prior to the scheduled tour. Anyway since we were also waiting for his arrival we happily joined him at 14:30, He took us to a very old and beautiful church. We loved it. It was started in 1638 and completed in 1748. It was a unique experience. Then he took us to Samba backstage carnival show. It was an amazing experience. All the girls were very nice and we were able to see and hear how they prepare for the carnival and everything about it. I can go on writing about it but end of the day it was an unbelievable experience. Full credit should go to Vitor who kept giving us more information in addition to the girls who were also doing a great job. I would recommend it to anyone who are interested in the world renowned Brazilian carnival that comes in February or March of each year depending on the Easter festival.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing such a thoughtful review! ❤️🎭 We’re delighted to hear that Vitor went the extra mile by offering an earlier pickup and showing you another hidden gem of Rio before your Carnival Experience. Moments like these often become the most memorable parts of a trip. 😊 It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed discovering the history behind the Carnival, meeting the talented team behind the scenes, and experiencing this incredible Brazilian tradition up close. We’re especially happy that Vitor’s passion and knowledge helped make the experience even more meaningful. ✨ We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Vitor. Thank you for recommending this experience, and for choosing Gregtur. We hope to welcome you back to Rio for many more unforgettable adventures! 🇧🇷🎉
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Price range
- $109 to $216
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 9
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Gregtur Turismo, who run 85 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.7 and 4 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Gregtur Turismo runsWhy this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory cost?
+
Prices start at $109 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory take?
+
Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 27 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
Around 9 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
+
On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
Included: Professional licensed private tour guide; Guided tour of the Acadêmicos da Grande Rio; Hotel, airport or port pick-up and drop-off. (Within Rio de Janeiro City); Transport by fully-equipped vehicle; and Private driver for groups bigger 4 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselv. Not included: Tips. (optional). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 301 listed pickup locations in and around Rio de Janeiro. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory offered in?
+
It is offered in German, Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rio de Janeiro. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
Across 27 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory?
+
There are 2 options to choose from, including Monday Special Deal, Standard Experience. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Rio Carnival Backstage Experience with Samba at Carnaval Factory.
Pick your date




