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Sample Itinerary
A sample flow for our December 4–14, 2026 departure.
This sample itinerary shows the planned flow of our December 4–14, 2026 departure through Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, and Recife. Specific timings and the order of some activities may shift as local music schedules, workshops, and cultural events are confirmed, while the core journey and included experiences remain the basis of the departure.
Day 1: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro & Samba School Experience
Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and check into your accommodation. Take some time to relax with a visit to the beach before gathering for an early dinner at Churrascaria Palace, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Brazilian feast. After dinner, immerse yourself in the heart of Rio’s Carnival culture with a visit to a Samba school rehearsal, where you’ll witness the passion, music, and energy that bring Carnival to life. For those who want to continue the night, an optional late-night experience awaits at Roda de Samba at Pedra do Sal, a historic open-air samba gathering.
After breakfast, embark on a cultural walking tour through Little Africa, one of Rio’s most historically significant Afro-Brazilian neighborhoods. Along the way, we’ll visit an Afro-Brazilian museum that showcases the deep cultural and artistic contributions of African heritage to Brazilian society. As we explore, we’ll hear stories of resistance, music, and community that have shaped the region. The tour will end with a delicious, authentic Afro-Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant in the heart of Little Africa. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to go shopping, relax at the beach, or explore Rio at your leisure. Dinner is on your own, with recommendations for excellent local dining experiences.
Today is a full immersion into the world of Samba and Carnival. In the morning, we’ll visit the Museum of Samba, where you’ll learn about the evolution of this iconic musical genre and its impact on Brazilian culture. We’ll then move on to an exciting behind-the-scenes Carnival workshop, where you’ll get a firsthand look at the elaborate floats, costumes, and preparations that go into Brazil’s biggest celebration. During this experience, you’ll have the chance to try on Carnival costumes, learn about the artistry of the parade, and even participate in a dance or percussion session. A traditional Brazilian lunch is included during the day. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether you prefer a relaxed dinner or a night out experiencing Rio’s vibrant music scene.
Start the day with breathtaking views as we take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, followed by a visit to the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After taking in these iconic sights, enjoy a relaxed afternoon at your own pace. In the evening, you can opt for a group dinner, explore the bustling nightlife of Lapa, or attend a Latin jazz performance at one of Rio’s top venues.
This is your free day to experience Rio on your own terms. Whether you prefer a relaxing beach day, an adventurous excursion to a nearby island, or a visit to luxury resorts, the choice is yours. Optional activities will be available, such as guided day trips, a nature hike in Tijuca National Park, or a boat cruise along the coast. This is the perfect opportunity to revisit your favorite places or explore something new before departing Rio.
After an early flight, arrive in Salvador de Bahia and check into your hotel. In the morning and afternoon, you are free to rest, explore, or visit nearby attractions. In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional Bahian dinner, where you’ll get a taste of Salvador’s rich and flavorful cuisine. After dinner, we’ll attend an included performance of Balé Folclórico da Bahia, an incredible showcase of Afro-Brazilian dance, drumming, and folklore.
After breakfast, embark on a cultural tour of Salvador, exploring the influences of Candomblé and the city’s Afro-Brazilian traditions while visiting historic neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. For lunch, enjoy a homemade Bahian meal in Liberdade, one of Salvador’s most historically significant Afro-Brazilian neighborhoods, where you’ll experience traditional flavors and learn about the area’s deep cultural roots. In the afternoon, take a music and history tour, diving into the rhythms of Samba de Roda, Axé, and Afro-Brazilian drumming, discovering how these sounds continue to shape Brazil’s music scene. The evening is yours to explore at leisure, with recommendations for dining and live music, whether you choose to visit a beachside restaurant, enjoy a cocktail at a local bar, or experience Salvador’s legendary nightlife.
Enjoy a relaxed day in Salvador at your own pace. Whether you want to explore more of the city’s music and art scene, visit the beach, or go shopping, this day gives you time to soak in the local culture. Optional activities will be available for those who want to engage in additional guided experiences. In the evening, take in your final night in Salvador with a relaxed dinner or explore one of the city’s vibrant nightlife spots.
In the morning, we depart for Recife, where we’ll check into our hotel and have some time to settle in. In the evening, we’ll head out for a traditional Brazilian dinner at one of Recife’s best local restaurants. Afterward, we’ll explore the vibrant streets of Olinda at night, where street performers, live music, and breathtaking city views create an unforgettable atmosphere. We’ll take in the sights and sounds of Maracatu, Frevo, and Forró music, with optional stops at local bars for those who wish to experience more of Olinda’s nightlife.
Start the day by exploring Recife Antigo, the city’s historic district, where you’ll find beautifully preserved colonial buildings, artistic spaces, and cultural landmarks. We’ll visit the Museum of Frevo, where you’ll learn about this uniquely Brazilian dance and musical style that defines Pernambuco’s Carnival. Next, we’ll participate in a music workshop, where you’ll get hands-on experience with the powerful rhythms of Maracatu and Frevo. Afterward, enjoy an included lunch in the city center, then take the afternoon at your leisure—whether you choose to explore more music, visit local shops, or relax before your final night in Brazil. The evening is free, with options for live music events or dinner on your own.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before departing for Recife International Airport, where your journey home begins.
Experience the Musical Heritage of Rio de Janeiro, Salvador & Recife
Limited to just 8 participants
December 4th-14th, 2026 | Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, Recife, Brazil
Brazil is one of the world’s most influential musical destinations, playing a pivotal role in shaping Latin American and global music. Join us on an immersive Brazil Music Tour, where we’ll take you deep into the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, and Recife—three cities rich in rhythm, culture, and history.
From the infectious beats of Samba and Bossa Nova to the deep roots of Choro, Latin Jazz, Axé, and Maracatu, Brazilian music is a vibrant fusion of African drumming traditions and European harmonies, evolving over centuries into a dynamic, world-renowned soundscape.
This tour offers a musician’s perspective on Brazilian music, giving you exclusive access to Samba school rehearsals, where preparations for Carnaval happen months in advance, and a chance to experience the Afro-Brazilian rhythms of Candomblé in Salvador. You’ll walk through historic neighborhoods where music is a way of life, from the lively Roda de Samba at Pedra do Sal to the hidden jazz clubs and street performances that pulse through each city.
Beyond the music, this journey is a cultural and culinary adventure. Explore Brazil’s most iconic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies like Moqueca and Feijoada, and savor the flavors of an authentic Brazilian steakhouse. With live performances every night, immersive music workshops, and deep cultural connections, this tour is your chance to see, hear, and feel the soul of Brazil like never before.
What’s Included
VIP Samba dance rehearsal. Brazilian Music or Samba dance lessons
Daily breakfast, plus 4 curated meals highlighting iconic regional cuisines
All ground transportation, including private transfers between cities
Optional experiences may be available and priced separately. Details are shared only after local schedules, availability, and logistics are confirmed.
10 nights of lodging in carefully selected hotels
Personalized assistance with reservations and recommendations for leisure time, ensuring an enjoyable experience during free periods and optional meals.
Expert local guides, plus a dedicated Music and Culture Tour Leader providing insights into each city’s musical heritage.
What’s Not Included
- Round-trip flights between your hometown and the tour arrival and departure cities.
- Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Any recommended or required vaccinations or travel-related medications are the responsibility of the traveler.
- Lunches and dinners not specifically listed.
- Activities not included in the official itinerary, as well as personal expenses.
- Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and musicians.
- Alcohol is only included where mentioned.
- Extra stays before or after the tour are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.
Dates & Pricing
December 4th-14th, 2026
Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, Recife
Price Per Person
Final room categories and upgrade options will be confirmed with the hotel selection.
Booking Details
Deposit: $500 per traveler. Deposits are non-refundable, and a place is confirmed once payment clears. Final payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before departure. Payment methods: ACH or wire transfer has no additional Musical Getaways processing fee. Credit and debit card payments include a 3.5% processing fee. Travel insurance: Comprehensive trip cancellation and interruption insurance is strongly recommended.
Read the full Terms, Conditions & Waiver. If Musical Getaways cancels a tour, deposits and payments are refunded in full under those terms.
Make Your Music Tour Private
Important Itinerary Notes & Travel Pace
Find answers to the most common questions about our tours. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, please contact us.
Itinerary Structure & Flexibility
The itinerary shown above is a sample outline intended to illustrate the overall flow of the Brazil Music journey, including percussion workshops, samba school rehearsals, candomblé cultural visits, and multi-city exploration. Specific days and the order of activities may vary depending on samba school schedules, ceremonial calendars, artist availability, and local conditions.
Live rehearsals, religious ceremonies, and street performances follow their own rhythms. While adjustments may occur, the core experiences outlined in the itinerary -including hands-on music workshops, cultural visits in Salvador, Recife, and Rio, and access to working musicians and cultural practitioners- reflect what we fully intend to deliver. Date-specific itineraries are shared with guests closer to departure.
Live Music & Cultural Events Disclaimer
Live music and cultural traditions are central to this journey, and schedules occasionally shift as samba schools finalize rehearsal times, ceremony dates follow lunar calendars, or street performance locations change. When adjustments arise, we work closely with our cultural partners and musician hosts to ensure the experience remains grounded, respectful, and musically meaningful. Adjustments are treated as part of the process, not departures from it.
Travel Pace & Activity Level
This journey is moderately active and designed for travelers who are comfortable moving through cities on foot and spending extended time at live events. Expect regular walking through historic neighborhoods -including the steep cobblestone streets of Pelourinho in Salvador and the hillside passages of Olinda- as well as standing during samba school rehearsals and street performances, and participating in hands-on percussion workshops. Domestic flights between cities are included in the itinerary.
Guests should feel comfortable walking approximately 3 to 5 miles per day and navigating uneven terrain typical of Brazil’s colonial urban centers. The itinerary includes planned rest intervals between cities and activities.
Getting to Brazil
Guests should plan their international arrival based on the city where the journey begins. Most international flights arrive into São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG), with connecting domestic flights to Salvador or Recife depending on the itinerary. Additional travel guidance and arrival recommendations will be provided to guests after booking.
Accessibility & Pacing Considerations
If you have specific mobility needs or accessibility considerations, please contact us before booking so we can discuss the pace, terrain, transportation, and what accommodations may be possible within this scheduled departure.
Experiences
Music Experience with a Brazilian musician
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Museu do Samba
Rio de Janeiro
Learn more About Brazil
Musicians’ Field Notes on Recife and Rio de Janeiro
Our musician’s guide to Brazil covers the unique sounds of Recife & Rio de Janeiro. Get travel tips and discover the best times to experience samba, frevo, and more.
Rio de Janeiro: Voted Best Afrotourism Destination in Brazil
Learn about Rio de Janeiro’s recognition as Brazil’s best afrotourism destination, highlighting its rich Afro-Brazilian roots.
Rhythms of Africa in Brazil: 3 Afro-Brazilian Cities You Must Visit
Feel the rhythm of Brazil’s culture, deeply influenced by African traditions, celebrated every day in cities like Rio de Janeiro.
