Highlights

Carnival Rio Carnival is a uniquely Latin celebration that attracts revellers from far and wide to share in the joie-de-vivre for which Brazilians are world-famous. However Rio is not the only place to party – in Salvador and Olinda for example, the colourful parades snake through cobbled city streets instead of an arena. Wherever you choose to celebrate, don’t miss Carnival: the world’s biggest party and perhaps its most unmistakable expression of joy.

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Where: The classic Carnival takes place in Rio, with Salvador and Olinda hosting popular alternatives.
When: Carnival begins 7 Sundays before Easter Sunday. Rio Carnival 2012 dates are 17-21 February.
After the party: From Rio, head to the idyllic beaches of the Emerald Coast or to Iguazú Falls. If you’re celebrating carnival in Salvador or Olinda instead, Chapada Diamantina national park or the beach towns of the northeast make a great complement to the festivities.
Where to stay: In Rio, aim to stay in the neighbourhoods of Copacabana or Ipanema – browse our Rio hotels. Note that early booking is essential.
Length of stay: Most hotels have a minimum stay of 5 nights around Carnival. We also recommend sticking around for an additional week of relaxation afterwards.

Tailor Made

Brazil - Rio Carnival, and other carnivals in Brazil >

16-22 February 2012 from £1,783
Carnival is celebrated all over Brazil but most famously in Rio and the spectacle is often referred to as 'The Greatest Show on Earth'. Rio Carnival is a visual extravaganza on an epic scale.

The world's biggest street party


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