The Rio Carnival Starts to Heat Up
When carnival season hits Brazil in February, Rio de Janeiro is the destination for backpackers.
The four day celebration is one of the most vibrant and colourful parties on the planet.
And for those yet to experience this blend of hedonism and noise at first hand, nothing else will come close to matching the frenetic atmosphere on show.
The carnival, which is traditionally a major celebration of the excesses before Ash Wednesday, will see the city bustling with tourists and natives alike, all ready to immerse themselves in the glamorous festivities.
It's a good idea to plan your trip carefully, though, to help you take full advantage of a trip to Brazil without missing the best of the carnival.
Find Perfect Accommodation
If you arrive before Sunday's main parade, there's lots of time to explore the city and check-in to one of the many great hostels available in Rio. The centrally located Surf n' Stay Backpackers provides a fantastic location for those also wanting to enjoy the waves during their trip. Macumba Beach is situated just 100 meters from the hostel in Copacabana, while the local shopping center is the ideal site for picking up souvenirs.
See a World Famous Attraction
The statue of Christ the Redeemer sits high above the heaving streets of Rio de Janeiro and is the city's most iconic sight. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it is located on the peak of the Corcovado Mountain and can be accessed from a mini-train that ascends from the Cosme Velho District. The summit will not only provide a stunning view of Rio (and the carnival chaos below), but will literally have you standing at the foot of one of the world's most spectacular sights.
Eating Out
Experiencing the best in local cuisine is one of the joys of backpacking, whether it's simple snacks or massive main courses you're after. Brazil is well known for the snack empadinha, which is a pastry pocket stuffed with various fillings and ingredients. Popular due to its size and wide availability, this snack is perfect for on-the-go eating, as you party through the streets till dawn.
Carnival Capital
When Sunday arrives, the parade kicks off celebrations and the carnival has well and truly begun; all the events of the day before lead up to a great explosion of colour and sound emanating from the 'Sambadrome'.
Brazil's love for dance is celebrated in all its glory during the evening parade, as thousands of people gather to enjoy the spectacle of seeing various samba schools 'compete'. The fantastic blend of music, floats, dancing and flamboyant costumes make for an unrivalled experience, as backpackers can sit back and soak in the culture and traditions that Brazil has to offer.
For those travelers on too tight a budget to make it into the Sambadrome (unfortunately, tickets can be expensive), there are a host of other events taking part all over the city. Carnival balls, street parties and the very popular samba beach parties all take place outside of the purpose-built arena, meaning everyone can enjoy the amazing atmosphere of the carnival season.
Great Weather
The carnival takes place in February; a peak time to enjoy Brazil's weather and beaches, while also soaking up the carnival atmosphere, that will make this a trip you'll never forget.
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