Rio de Janeiro · WORKSHOPS
The 6 best workshops and classes you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason; start there.
Spend one lively hour at Samba Fit in Ipanema learning samba basics from Carla, Ranaa, or Gaby, instructors who have performed with major samba schools. The small group class includes photos, videos, and a chance to wear Carnival costumes at the end.
“Gaby is a great instructor! Really makes samba 101 fun and we even got to try on some costumes and got a little gift at the end. 10/10 would recommend :)”
Join a one-hour beginner-friendly samba class in Copacabana with instructors such as Marco, Thiago, or Mauricio. You will learn basic samba no pé steps, dance with an international group, and may finish with a festive circle and carnival-style photos. Water and bilingual instruction are included.
“This class was very fun. The teacher was energetic and entertaining. He taught us some basic moves and we ended with a little celebration of our new skills by dancing in a big circle together.”
Start with a beginner-friendly, one-hour samba class led in English, Spanish, or Portuguese by guides such as Marco or Bruno. Then travel with your instructor to Pedra do Sal on Monday or a samba club in Copacabana from Wednesday to Saturday, with entry and three hours of guidance included.
“Marco was very patient, fun class, easy to talk to and we had a great time at the dancing at the club afterwards. Enjoyed it so much we are going back for more!”
Start at Pura Vida Hostel in Copacabana with a caipirinha workshop, then learn samba from a professional teacher such as Camilo, Nati, or Bruno. The two-hour evening includes two drinks and a shot of Gabriela, with optional nightlife afterward.
“We enjoyed the Samba class with Bruno. It was very relaxed and way more fun than we imagined. Sadly, we did not stay for the Caipirpirinha workshop. This was because in the information given, the start time of the event was stated as 7.15pm. However, the Samba didn't start until 8pm. We had to leave just as the Caipirpirinha workshop was starting. This was very disappointing especially as we had enjoyed the Samba class and the venue so much.”
Meet Surf Matrix at the yellow tent on Arpoador Beach for a one-hour lesson with up to six people. Rafael may lead your class, covering ocean safety, board position, paddling, and standing up before you practice in the waves. English, Portuguese, and Spanish instruction is available.
“We had Rafael as a surfing instructor with this company. I could not recommend enough! They were flexible with the timings as it is weather dependant. Rafael was fabulous, full of energy, spoke English very well and was a wonderful teacher. Worth every penny!”
Meet a local surf instructor in Copacabana or Ipanema for a one-hour lesson covering stretching, board technique, ocean safety, and your first waves. Group and private classes are available, with boards, leashes, surf clothing, storage, and optional photos and videos.
“En fait je n’ai pas trouvé le guide!parce qu’il n’y en avait pas!sur votre site ce sont des photos de toutes les écoles de surf d’ipanema!et personne ne représente ce site!il n’y avait pas de numéro de téléphone pour avec des explications!j’ai dû repayer pour avoir un cours! Je ne comprends pas car j’ai réservé plusieurs activités avec vous! mais pour le surf c’est à revoir! Pourriez-vous procéder à mon remboursement?”
Pick a summit, a hillside, a beach or a bar.
