The 5 Workshops & Classes in Brazil That Earn Their Price

1.Beginner Samba Lesson in Ipanema

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 1,071 reviews · 1 hour · from $25Our pick

Spend one lively hour at Samba Fit in Ipanema learning basic samba steps with Carla, Ranaa, or Gaby, performers from major samba schools. The small class moves at a beginner pace, includes photos and videos, and ends with a fun chance to try carnival costumes.

“It was an enjoyable and informative class. At the end we tried on costumes. The only thing to make it better would be a longer session of 1.5-2hrs. This one was a quick hour- we really enjoyed it! Obrigada”

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2.Samba Class in Copacabana

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 262 reviews · 1 hour · from $25

Spend one hour learning basic samba steps in Copacabana with an English, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking instructor such as Marco, Thiago, or Mauricio. The class suits complete beginners, includes water, and ends with group dancing. Some sessions may include carnival headpieces for photos, but this is not guaranteed.

“Love it! Thiago was a great guide. Super knowledgeable”

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3.Samba Class and Samba Night Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 115 reviews · 4 hours · from $63

Start with a beginner-friendly one-hour samba class led by guides such as Marco or Bruno, then travel with your instructor to a live samba night. Monday heads to Pedra do Sal in Ipanema, while Wednesday to Saturday visits a club near Copacabana. Your ticket, transfer, fast-track entry, and three hours of guidance are included.

“I just had to share this incredible experience we stumbled upon recently! So, my wife and I were on the hunt for something fun to do, and we came across this Samba class that promised not only dance lessons but also a taste of that electric nightclub atmosphere. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Our instructor, Elio (I hope I got the spelling right!), was an absolute gem. Not only was he exceptional at teaching us the dance moves with infectious enthusiasm, but he also went above and beyond to ensure we had a blast. What really touched me was how he looked out for our safety as…”

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4.Caipirinha Workshop and Samba Class

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 113 reviews · 2 hours · from $12Best value

Start with a hands-on caipirinha workshop at Pura Vida Hostel, then follow with a one-hour samba class led in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. Teachers such as Nati, Camilo, and Bruno have earned praise for clear, friendly instruction. You also get a Gabriela cachaça shot and the option to continue into Rio nightlife.

“My favourite part of this workshop was the samba lesson with Nati, who is an experienced dancer (she performs every year at Carnival de Rio de Janeiro)! She was very patient and showed us how to samba with very simple step-by-step instructions. By the end of the hour, we had perfected a short samba routine! During the lesson, we had an English guide who helped to translate, as Nati was teaching in Spanish, but it was super easy to follow her steps regardless of the language. You don’t need to be a dancer to enjoy this activity - she is an excellent instructor! At the end of our lesson, Nati…”

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5.BOXE CLASS – EX BAHIAN CHAMPION (SALVADOR-BA)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 7 reviews · 1 hour · from $12Top rated

Meet at 10am Thursdays in a sports room at Rua Doutor João Pondé, 240, Salvador. A former Bahia champion leads a one-hour Portuguese-language class for up to eight people, covering stance, footwork, punches, defense, conditioning, and fitness. Gloves and water are included. Beginners and experienced boxers are welcome.

“Really good class. I’ve been boxing for a number of years and enjoyed it.”

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