Learn all the essentials about Sambadrome tickets and Samba Parade nights - all frequently asked questions answered, giving advice and recommendations from experts and true Rio Carnival veterans.
Read more about the Rio Sambadrome or Sambodromo tickets.
What should I decide before buying my tickets?
The day, sector and whether you want allocated chairs in a front box or stay in the bleachers.
Is it the same show on Sunday and Monday? Different schools march on the two days. Thus the show is different. See the 2009 Parading Order here.
For which day should I buy my tickets?
The most important nights are Carnival Sunday and Monday, which are similar in terms of set-up. 6 of the best 12 samba schools (the Special Group) march on both days. Choose the one which best fits into your schedule.
Which are the best sectors?
Sector 2A, B, C, offering VIP seating and services. Sectors in the middle or slightly towards the end of the run-way are also excellent, such as Sector 5, 7, 9 and 11. Paying just a little bit more makes actually a big difference when it comes to the view. Make the best out of that special night of a life-time. Sector 7 is probably the best, indicated by the fact that most judges are located at this height of the Avenue. Go for the front boxes if you can afford it for more comfortable seating, space and better views.
Can I only stay in the tourist Sector No. 9?
No, you can buy tickets for all sectors. Sector 9 is called so only to justify the significantely higher price. There are almost no natives there. You would be better off in a Sector 4 front box with better seats and more space, paying the same price.
Are the seats numbered?
Chairs in the boxes and in front of sector 6 and 13 and seats in Sector 9 are numbered and allocated. All other Grand Stand sectors offer free seating without allocated places.
Do you recommend the front boxes? They are an excellent option. They offer comfort and space (only 6 chairs with a coffee table) with fantastic views, being right on the samba run-way. For a good view combined with excellent value opt for the front boxes in front of Sector 4 or 5.
Which tickets are the best value for money?
The boxes in front of Sector 4. It offers comfortable seating within a box with your own chair, coffee table and significantly more space while also having a considerably better view, being right on the Avenue, than in any Grand Stand sector. Being seated opposite the drummers’ niche, you will enjoy full view of the drummers who will stop, play and perform right in front of you with some truly compelling atmosphere.
Which allocated seats are of good value? The numbered, allocated chairs in front of Sector 6. You will have your own private chair, and can come and go whenever you like without anyone else taking your seat. The chairs are located on reclining steps to assure unrestricted, good views.
Do any sectors have restricted view?
Grand Stand Sector 4, since the building of Sector 2 next to it is in the way.
Which are the very best tickets?
The luxury Suites in Sector 2 with the best views and VIP treatment with free buffet, dinner and drinks. You will be among the "A" crowd. Then follow the front boxes in front of Sector 7.
What should I buy if I am on a tight budget?
Try to go for Sector 3. If you want to have allocated seats however, the private chairs in front of sector 6 offer the best value.
Which tickets are still available?
All tickets on our dedicated Samba Parade ticket page are still available. That page is linked to our computer system and is constantly up-to-date.
Are there any child or student discounts?
Children under 5 can go for free. Over 5 they pay full price. There is no student concession.
Can I change my tickets?
Yes, if you buy them directly from us. See how easy it is if you change you mind. It leaves your options free and gives you peace of mind. However, we cannot change tickets bought from intermediaries.
How do I change the name or e-mail on file? Just send a request by email or call us.
Are the tickets refundable? No, all sales are final. However, you may apply the amount paid towards another ticket type or date, or even for tours and hotel reservations for Carnival 2009. A Fee of $25 will be applicable for each change requested.
Why do I see different prices for the same ticket type?
Middlemen and ticket brokers charge obviously more. Prices are not regulated.
How do I know if I paid and my tickets are booked? After processing your payment, you will get your confirmation and receipt by email, within 24/72 hours.
When
and how will I receive my tickets? You are given two options: to pick them up for free at our Hospitality Desk located in Copacabana on Friday Feb 20 or Saturday Feb 21, from 10 AM to 5 PM or, OPT for a delivery in the city8 of Rio de Janeiro, for which we charge you $19 per ticket to a limit of $50 per delivery.
What If I get to Rio on Sunday?
You have to coordinate a Special Delivery with our Carnival Help Desk by email or phone. A special delivery fee of $19 per ticket, for a total of $50 will be applicable. We will do all possilbe to accommodate your request.
Do you charge for delivery? Yes, $19 per ticket to a maximum amount of $50 in case you have multiple tickets.
When should I give my delivery address?
The sooner the better. In case you don't have your address of choice when you book/buy your tickets, it's okay to give it to us in January, when we reconfirm all deliveries.
Can you leave my tickets with someone else?
Tickets will be delivered by special couriers in sealed envelops addressed to the attention of the person you instruct us to be given to. If you wish, we can leave them at the reception or with a friend, signing for the receipt. Or they will only be handed over to you personally. Just let us know when we e-mail you for your delivery preferences.
Is it safe in the Sambadrome?
It is considered to be the safest place in South America. There is a very high concentration of international celebrities, politicians and royalties among the crowd. It is surrounded by huge fences which no-one can pass without using the gates and being checked for both commercial, safety and security reasons. All sectors are equally safe.
When does the show start?
The parades start at 21.00. See the 2009 Parading Schedule here.
When is the best time to arrive for the Parade?
An average person truly enjoys and generally watches 3-5 samba schools. Thus, to arrive only around 22.00-23.00 could be a good idea, considering that that’s when the atmosphere starts to peak.
How do I get there and return home?
If you are on Sectors 7, 9 and 11, we do offer special roundtrip guided transfers and assistance on site. The cost per person is $79 for the roundtrip transfers. The transportation will return to your hotel area at the end of each school after midnight. It's pricey but i'ts a service worth having for the smmothness. If you are stay in other sectiors than 7, 9 and 11, the best and easiest way to get there is by hailing a taxi just when needed. Many taxis will also be waiting outside when you are ready to leave. Go by subway/metro if you are on a budget.
Should I book transfers?
Only if you are on Sectors 7, 9 or 11, we do offer transfers and will get you right inside the sambadrome. Some other companies do offer special transfer services as well, but timing is impossible on Samba Parade days and you might get very annoyed having to wait for hours. As a client of ours, you will receive the details of specialized taxi companies to take you straight into your sector and to collect you when you are ready to go home.
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