Large groups, flowing alcohol and excitable crowds can all lead to trouble. But hey, it’s Rio Carnival and nothing should put you off visiting one of the world’s most colourful and exhilarating events.
With your Rio Carnival accommodation booked and this list of Rio safety tips and advice under your belt, you can samba the streets with confidence… and that means shakin’ your ass!
1. Do I need tickets for Rio Carnival?
Only for the official Samba competition. This takes place at the Sambódromo and requires a booking (tickets can cost up to $100). But other than that, everything else is free! The street parties are known as blocos. These are groups of people in special costumes or matching shirts walking around and following big floats called trio elétrico. If you like the rhythm or the people seem nice, just join them.
2. Is Rio Carnival safe?
Yes! On the other hand, don’t expect prim and proper manners among big crowds. People will step on your toes, you will be doused in unexpected beer showers and there are plenty of weird chat-up lines from over-excited samba addicts flying around. But lighten up! It’s Rio carnival!
3. Where is the best cheap place to stay for Rio Carnival?
Ipenema and Copacabana are popular with party-goers: check out our guide to the best party hostels in Rio for more inspiration, or see our full listings for cheap hotels in Rio.
4. What should I take to Rio Carnival?
Do what the locals do and keep your cash in a money belt. Keep mobile phones in plastic bags: in some parts of the city, tank trucks spray the crowds with water to provide welcome respite from the heat. Also take your own food and drink. Carnival events can go on until after sunrise, so don’t be surprised to see people carrying mini mattresses and pillows so they can catch a quick 40 winks before carrying on with the party. Avoid carrying iPods and cameras, especially the big ones: this is what pickpockets are after and they will be easy to spot.
5. Are there any banned items at Rio Carnival?
No glass, no polystyrene, no video cameras, no firecrackers. Umbrellas spoil everyone’s view so consider a light rain poncho instead. However, street vendors usually have these on sale in the eventuality of a summer shower.
6. What other Rio Carnival rules should I know about?
Yes, don’t pee in the street. Brazil may be a liberal country (and Rio especially), but there is a line. You can get in big trouble for this. If a police officer spots you, you will be arrested and end up spending a large chunk of your carnival budget on a not-so-cheap police fine.
7. Are different currencies accepted at Rio Carnival?
Surprisingly, shops and street vendors do accept dollars, euros and pounds. Convenient as this may seem, you will be charged much more than if you pay with Reais so make sure you exchange your currency beforehand or risk running out of money very quickly!
8. What are the toilets like at Rio Carnival?
Be prepared to queue for a chemical toilet or pay 1-2R$ to use a restaurant bathroom. True of any festival or major public event: carry some toilet roll.
9. How do I get around and much does transport cost at Rio Carnival?
The city is easier to navigate if you are staying near a metro station – metro tickets cost under 1R$. There are also plenty of bus services laid on for carnival-goers (from 50 cents a single journey).
10. I’m single. Is it easy to hook up at Rio Carnival?
As we said above, Carnival is a liberal event, but that doesn’t mean a guaranteed hook up if you’re looking. Locals will give short shrift to over-eager chat up lines from visitors, so relax, enjoy yourself and show the same respect as you would at home. Bottom line, you’re sure to have an amazing time at a bloco – whether you hit it off with that foxy carioca or not.
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February 8th, 2012 at 3:49 pm
All true, except for the metro and bus ticket prices. They’re both around R$3 (+- USD 1.5).