After watching Celebrity Race Across the World, Latin Routes marketing executive Mihaela could not stop thinking about Brazil. But it was Rio de Janeiro that truly captured her imagination. On a recent trip, she explored the city beyond the postcards, delving into Carnival culture, everyday life and the energy that defines one of Latin America’s most iconic destinations.
Before arriving in Rio, Mihaela was most excited by the people, the beaches and the deep-rooted Carnival culture that runs through the city.
“Brazil just seemed so full of life, with incredible culture and beautiful nature everywhere. I was especially excited to meet Brazilian people. Everyone talks about how friendly they are and how proud they feel of their traditions. And of course, I couldn’t wait to see the beaches for myself, the kind you can admire from your hotel balcony while listening to the waves.”
Let's explore Mihaela's Rio Carnival behind the scenes experience
First impressions of Rio
Rio de Janeiro feels alive from the moment you arrive. It is vast, energetic and full of contrasts, exactly what you would expect from Brazil’s second largest city.
Along the southern coastline, wide sandy beaches stretch through Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon, where daily life unfolds between beach walks, volleyball games and sunset swims. Further north, the Maracanã Stadium comes alive on match days, buzzing with passion when Flamengo takes the field. Nearby, Tijuca Forest offers a surprising escape into nature, where jeep tours wind through lush greenery and capuchin monkeys appear between the trees.
Elsewhere, the city’s creative soul shines through. In Santa Teresa, colourful streets and hillside views sit alongside galleries and small workshops, while Samba City offers a glimpse into the preparations that power Rio’s world-famous Carnival.
Food and drink highlights
Rio’s food scene quickly became a highlight of the trip. Mihaela was particularly taken with the variety of caipirinhas on offer, each with its own twist.
“One that really stood out was the Coco Loco. It’s a fresh coconut filled with vodka, rum, tequila, coconut cream and lime juice. Wild, refreshing and completely unforgettable.”
As a self-confessed meat lover, a visit to a traditional gaucho steakhouse was non-negotiable. Places like Fogo de Chão delivered sizzling grilled meats and the classic rodízio experience, where cuts are carved directly at the table until you decide you can eat no more.
Going behind the scenes of Rio Carnival
One of the most memorable experiences of the trip was a Carnival behind the scenes tour, offering a rare look at the people and craftsmanship behind Rio’s biggest celebration.
Mihaela visited Grande Rio Samba School, winners of the 2022 Carnival, and experienced samba culture through the eyes of true champions.
“You could feel their pride immediately. They spoke with so much passion about their traditions and the effort that goes into creating something so meaningful.”The tour revealed just how much planning goes into Carnival. Preparations begin almost a year in advance, starting with choosing a theme and storyline, followed by costume and float design, construction and endless rehearsals.
Rio Carnival is far more than a party. It is a fiercely competitive event. Each year, 12 samba schools take over the Sambódromo, a 700 metre long and 13 metre wide stage, performing for 70 minutes in front of a demanding jury and more than 80,000 spectators.
How samba schools prepare for Carnival
Behind the sequins and samba rhythms are hundreds of people working together, from dancers and drummers to costume designers, artisans and builders.
Once the previous Carnival ends in March, samba schools begin reviewing what worked and what could be improved. By April and May, a new theme is chosen, followed by costume and float designs in June. Between July and September, prototypes are tested and floats are built. Rehearsals begin in October, with costume production and final decorations taking place through November and December. January and February are dedicated to intense rehearsals as the entire community prepares for Carnival.
Joining the Carnival experience
Trying on a real Carnival costume and learning a few samba steps was a standout moment.
“It was fun and very humbling. Dancing even briefly in those costumes made me realise how incredible the performers are. They dance for hours in beautiful but often heavy outfits, all while keeping perfect rhythm.”A single samba school can bring between 3,000 and 5,000 people into the parade, all working together to tell one story. Performances are judged across nine elements, starting with the Comissão de Frente, followed by the Mestre-Sala and Porta-Bandeira carrying the school’s flag. Behind them comes a wave of colour, movement and sound, driven by 250 to 300 drummers.
Is a Carnival experience worth it outside Carnival season?
For travellers wanting to connect with Rio’s culture, even when Carnival is not taking place, this experience comes highly recommended.
Visiting the samba school workshops, meeting the people behind the scenes, trying on costumes and taking photos offers a meaningful insight into Rio’s cultural heart. It is particularly rewarding for travellers with limited time in the city who still want an authentic experience beyond the main sights.
Mihaela’s expert tips for experiencing Rio authentically
Rio’s spirit is present all year round, if you know where to look.
Joining a casual game of beach tennis on Copacabana is an easy way to connect with locals, who are often happy to invite visitors to join in. After a match, a cold caipirinha by the shore feels well earned.
In the evening, the Roxy Dinner Show offers a lively introduction to Brazilian music and dance, turning dinner into a celebration. Santa Teresa is also not to be missed. Its bohemian atmosphere, small galleries and hilltop views over downtown Rio make it one of the city’s most characterful neighbourhoods to explore.
Whether it’s the rhythm of samba echoing through the streets, the dedication behind Carnival’s grand performances, or everyday moments along Rio’s beaches, the city leaves a lasting impression. Exploring Rio beyond the headline sights offers a deeper connection to its culture and people, and shows that the Carnival spirit lives on throughout the year.
For travellers looking to experience Rio de Janeiro in a more meaningful way, journeys that blend culture, local encounters and time to absorb the city’s atmosphere reveal the true heart of this unforgettable destination.
Inspired to explore Rio de Janeiro for yourself? From behind the scenes Carnival experiences to time on the city’s iconic beaches, a tailor made journey allows you to experience Rio at your own pace, with expert guidance every step of the way.
Speak to our travel specialists to start planning a Brazil itinerary that brings Rio’s culture, energy and everyday moments to life.
