Rio Carnival - quite possibly the biggest party on the planet - is one of the most popular reasons to go to Brazil. Vast stands line its famous Sambadrome, where more than 70,000 partygoers - Brazilians and international tourists alike - come to watch the spectacle in February, and the costumes get bigger, brighter and more imaginative every year. But why just watch when you can take part?
Usually, the parade is made up of the city's samba schools. But now tourists, too, can dress up in the elaborate outfits - which range from giant peacocks and pineapples to Venetian pianos and Egyptian pharoahs - and join the energetic dancers and musicians that move to the rhythm of samba.
Bespoke Brazil can arrange trips to the country that include the once-in-a-lifetime experience of taking part in the parade. With guidance, fledgling dancers will learn how to move, sing and smile like the professionals, all while trying to keep in line (points are awarded to the samba schools for keeping good form). Guests stay in boutique Hotel Santa Teresa, a former coffee plantation house in the city's cultural centre. The tailor-made trip could also include tours of Rio de Janeiro, and of Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado Mountain from which the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue looks out over the city.
Simon Williams, founder of Bespoke Brazil, says: 'Visiting Rio Carnival is one thing, but taking part in the Sambadrome parade is an experience second to none. An hour of non-stop dancing in front of thousands of fans to a relentless samba beat. I have travelled extensively around the world and this is without question the best thing I have ever done!'
Rio Carnival runs 8-12 February 2013. A seven-day itinerary costs from £5,990, including six nights' accommodation at Hotel Santa Teresa, airport transfers, tours of Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains, entry to the Sambadrome on Sunday night and opportunity to take part in the parade on Monday night; international flights not included but can be arranged. To book contact Bespoke Brazil (01603 340680; www.bespokebrazil.com)
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