Rio de Janeiro: Samba Class in Ipanema with Carnival Queen

Summary

Samba moves in ipanema with a carnival queen and laughter

You’ll try real samba steps with a Carnival queen right in Ipanema—don’t worry if you’ve got two left feet, everyone laughs together here. Get photos and videos emailed after (the costumes are wild). By the end you’ll feel Rio’s rhythm under your skin—and maybe catch yourself smiling for no reason later.

What’s the experience like?

Ever tried to move your feet like they do at Carnaval? I hadn’t, not really, until we found ourselves in this little studio tucked just off one of Ipanema’s busier streets. The air inside was thick with that sweet mix of sweat and coconut oil (I think someone had just come from the beach). Our guide—her name was Camila, but everyone called her “Rainha”—greeted us with this huge, contagious grin. She wore sequins even though it was barely noon. I still remember how she clapped out the rhythm for us, slow at first, then suddenly fast enough that my legs felt like they belonged to someone else.

I’ll be honest: samba is harder than it looks on TV. My first few steps were all elbows and apologies, but Camila just laughed and showed me again. She said something about “ginga,” the swing you need in your hips—Li tried to explain it to me but honestly, you have to feel it. There were all kinds of people there: locals who’d clearly done this before, tourists like us grinning nervously at each other. The music pulsed through these old speakers and for a second I forgot about being self-conscious. At the end, Camila pulled out these wild feathered costumes (they’re heavier than you’d think) and we took group photos—I look ridiculous but happy. They sent us the pictures later; every time I see them I can almost hear that beat again.

Afterwards we spilled out into the street, legs wobbly and cheeks sore from laughing. It wasn’t just a samba class in Rio de Janeiro—it felt more like being let in on some secret part of the city’s heart. Even now when I hear samba back home, my feet start moving without asking permission. Funny how travel does that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Samba class with carnival queen

• Attend 1-hour samba class
• Take pictures with carnival costumes
• Receive photos and videos by email

Top questions

How long is the samba class in Ipanema?

The samba class lasts about 1 hour.

Do I get photos or videos from the samba class?

Yes, you’ll receive photos and videos by email or phone after class.

Is this samba class suitable for beginners?

Yes, all levels are welcome—even if you’ve never tried samba before.

Are children allowed to join the samba class?

Infants and small children can attend if they ride in a pram or stroller.

Where is the samba class held?

The class takes place in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the studio.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your session includes a full hour of samba instruction for all levels with a Carnival queen in Ipanema, plus group photos and videos taken during class—these will be sent straight to your email or phone afterwards so you can relive every step (and costume moment) back home.