Carnival in Rio

[eden]

Has anyone attended Carnival in Rio while on a cruise?

Am planning on being in Rio in 2007 and am wondering what events to attend.What is a must to see at Carnival? Is there a parade on Saturday or only on the Sun and Monday?Thanks for any info?

[Guest slrman]

The monster parades you see on TV are held at the Sambadromo in Rio. You will need a ticket to attend there and it is always packed. It is best to have your tour operator obtain these for you well in advance.

 

There are also almost nightly parades and Samba bands at the beaches of Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana. If attending any of these events, it would not be wise to go alone, wear jewelry, or expensive clothing. Crime during Carnaval is a problem. A good tour operator will arrange for a guide and you will have a better time for having one that can explain to you what is happening, and what it all means. You might consider earplugs, too as the sound truck and general noise level are not to be believed until you experience it. :D