How to enjoy Carnival in Sapucaí?

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is a spectacle of colors, rhythms and incomparable joy. At Sapucaí, then, it's an unparalleled experience! Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of this memorable party:

1. Choose Your Seat in the Sambadrome

There are plenty of seating options to choose from, some of which are even free in the sectors where prices are lower, but if you want a privileged view of the catwalk, sectors 3, 5 and 7 are ideal for watching the parades. But the favorite spot for tourists is in sector 9, as it is the most comfortable place on the catwalk and has numbered seats, so you don't have to arrive as far in advance as the other sectors! Remember that tickets for the grandstands have already sold out, but for those who can go to the exclusive boxes, they start at R $1,500.00.

2. Check the schedules of your favorite schools

On February 9, the parades begin. If you want to see the parades, they start at 21:00 and feature names like Império da Tijuca, Estácio de Sá and Unidos da Ponte. On February 10, they also start at the same time and feature names like União da Ilha, Unidos de Bangu and others. The big carnival stars arrive on February 11 and the parades start a little later at 10pm and go until 4am. On these days you'll be able to see schools like Beija-Flor, Mangueira, Grande Rio, Imperatriz and many others that have shaped Rio's carnival into what it is today.

3. What to bring to the party

Although the party is very much open to everyone, there are rules that must be followed, thus avoiding headaches at the entrance to the event. Each ticket holder is only allowed to bring two clear plastic bottles of water and two items of food, which can be fruit, sandwiches or snacks. Items such as Styrofoam, glass bottles or bags are not allowed, so stay tuned!

4. How to get to the biggest party in the world

The revelry is great and so is the excitement, but how do you know how to get there? All roads lead to Sapucaí, cabs, charter buses and even many municipal lines, but my tip here is to take the metro! Just take line 1 and get off at Praça Onze station and you'll be just a few meters away from the stands. Plan to go early to avoid large crowds in the wagons.

5. Dress to kill

Fantasy is the watchword, there are no dress code for the parades! Get ready to get into the mood and throw yourself into the colors, sparkles and creativity. Wear light, comfortable clothes, don't forget the sunscreen and take a small bag to store your belongings safely, and check the weather forecast to bring a raincoat if necessary.

6. Enjoy it responsibly

Carnival is a party of celebration, so have fun, dance, sing, but always responsibly. Stay hydrated, respect the rules and timetables of the event and respect the people around you.

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is an experience that goes beyond the party itself. It's a unique cultural celebration, an opportunity to get to know the vibrant essence of the city and let yourself be enveloped by the contagious joy of the cariocas. Make the most of it, always with a lot of safety and respect.

Until next time, let's go together!