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 2010 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 2, 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 for a ticket makes 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 buy tickets in tourist Sector No. 9?
No, you can buy tickets for all sectors. Sector 9 is a significantly higher price and there's very few locals here. But if your a tourist your not obligated to buy all your tickets here. These are designated numbered seats. 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. It also has a considerably better view, being right on the Avenue, than 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 your eyes 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 next to it, Sector 2 blocks the view..
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.
How much are the tickets?
See prices on the dedicated Samba Parade ticket page.
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 your mind. It leaves your options open 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 us your request.
Are the tickets refundable?
Yes, if you buy them directly from us. It leaves your options free and gives you peace of mind. See how easy it is to get a refund. However, we cannot refund tickets bought from intermediaries.
Why do I see different prices for the same ticket type?
Middlemen and ticket brokers charge more. Prices are not regulated.
How do I know if my tickets are booked?
If you completed your payment, a PayPal receipt has been e-mailed to you. Your booking will be confirmed by us within a business day.
When and how will I receive my tickets?
We make all possible efforts that your tickets reach you at your convenience. We will deliver your tickets to any address requested in Rio. We will let you know the date and exact time of delivery. We deliver to all cruise ships for free as well.
What if the free delivery time is not suitable?
We can also deliver on February 13th or 19th, for a special delivery fee of $17.00 - you can choose the day and we will let you know the time on the day requested.
Do you charge for delivery?
No, only if you do not accept your free delivery time.
When should I give my delivery address?
We will contact you just before January 4th, offering you all delivery options and asking you for your preferences and delivery address. Please give them a reply by e-mail.
Can my tickets be left with someone else?
Tickets will be delivered by special couriers in sealed envelopes addressed to the attention of the person you instruct us to give them to. If you wish, we can leave them at the reception or with a friend who can sign 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 perimeter fencing which no-one can pass without being checked for both, safety, security and commercial reasons. All sectors are equally safe.
When does the show start?
The parades start at 21.00. See the 2010 Parading Schedule here.
When is the best time to arrive for the Parade?
Generally a person watches 3-5 samba schools on average. Thus, to arrive only around 22.00-23.00 would be a good idea, considering that that’s when the atmosphere starts to peak.
How do I get there and return home?
The best and easiest way to get there is by hailing a taxi whenever you're ready. Many taxis will also be waiting outside when you're ready to leave. Go by subway/metro if you are on a tight budget.
Should I book a shuttle service?
Some companies offer special transfer services but can make no guarantees for timing. On Samba Parade days 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 to your sector and collect you when you are ready to go home.
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