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Known as one of the largest and most vibrant carnivals in the world, Salvador’s Carnival is a unique celebration brimming with energy, color, and traditions that captivate everyone lucky enough to join in.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to make the most of this incredible event. From dates and routes to the top blocos, camarotes, and accommodation options, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable experience during Salvador Carnival 2025.

Get ready to dive into Bahia’s vibrant culture, dance to the rhythms of the trios elétricos, enjoy the traditional street blocos, and be enchanted by the warm hospitality of the Bahian people. Let’s embark on this exciting journey of celebration and joy together!

When does Salvador’s carnival begin?

While Salvador’s Carnival officially starts on Thursday, with the first trios elétricos parading along the festival’s main circuits like Dodô and Osmar, the city begins buzzing with excitement days before the official kickoff.

The pre-Carnival events, Fuzuê and Furdunço, are held in the lead-up to the main celebration. Fuzuê takes place the Saturday before Carnival, featuring cultural and traditional groups such as Afro blocos, afoxés, and brass bands parading along the Orlando Tapajós circuit in the Barra neighborhood.

Furdunço, a lively warm-up event, happens on the Sunday before Carnival. It showcases various artists and bands performing along the same circuit as Fuzuê, filling Salvador’s streets with music and joy.

On the Tuesday before Carnival, the city comes alive with Pipoco, a massive street party led by singer Léo Santana, starting at the Clube Espanhol and ending in Ondina.

During the official Carnival days, revelers enjoy the pipoca (free street festivities) across three main circuits: Campo Grande (Osmar), the Historic Center (Batatinha), and Barra-Ondina (Dodô). There are also camarotes (exclusive party lounges) and trio elétrico blocos like Eva, Camaleão, Nana Banana, Coruja, Largadinho, Olodum, and Vumbora, which draw huge crowds through Salvador’s streets.

The festivities culminate on Ash Wednesday with the Arrastão, a tradition led by singer and songwriter Carlinhos Brown. This final parade allows revelers to bid farewell to Carnival with music, joy, and celebration before the start of Lent.

Salvador’s Carnival is not limited to the official event days; it encompasses the vibrant spirit of anticipation and preparation that precedes the festival, culminating in the grand Arrastão.

Carnival 2025 Schedule in Salvador

February 22: Fuzuê
February 23: Furdunço
February 24: Melhor Segunda-feira do Mundo (Best Monday in the World) with Xanddy Harmonia
February 25: Pipoco with Léo Santana
February 26: Fanfarras (Marching Bands) at Circuito Sérgio Bezerra (“Habeas Corpus”)
February 27 (Thursday): First day of Carnival
March 4: Special second edition of Furdunço at Circuito Batatinha (Pelourinho)
March 5 (Ash Wednesday): Last day of Carnival with the Arrastão at Barra

Planning your trip to Bahia? Check out our Complete Guide to Bahia, My Home State!

Where to enjoy Salvador’s Carnival

Salvador’s Carnival takes over the entire city, from the downtown area to the coastline and local neighborhoods. Here’s a breakdown of where the celebration happens:

Campo Grande Circuit (Osmar)

The Campo Grande Circuit, also known as Circuit Osmar, is one of the most traditional and popular routes of Salvador’s Carnival. Located in the heart of the city, this circuit hosts major musical performances and trios elétricos (mobile stages), drawing huge crowds of revelers every year.

Historic Center Circuit (Batatinha)

The Historic Center Circuit, or Circuit Batatinha, is celebrated for its rich historical and cultural ambiance. Situated in Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this circuit offers a diverse program featuring traditional blocos, folkloric groups, and artistic performances, delivering a uniquely immersive experience.

Barra-Ondina Circuit (Dodô)

The Barra-Ondina Circuit, known as Circuit Dodô, is one of the liveliest and most glamorous areas of Salvador’s Carnival. Stretching approximately 4.5 kilometers, this circuit runs from Barra to Ondina along Avenida Oceânica. Revelers can enjoy performances by renowned artists and electrifying shows.

Camarotes

For those seeking comfort and exclusivity, camarotes (private lounges) provide an upscale Carnival experience. Located along the circuits, these venues offer complete amenities, including bar services, food, private restrooms, and stunning views of the trios elétricos.

Though pricier—around R$1,500 (USD $300) per day—camarotes promise a more relaxed and comfortable way to enjoy the festivities.

Blocos

Blocos are the heart of Salvador’s Carnival, drawing revelers of all ages into vibrant street celebrations. These blocos parade through the circuits, offering two participation options:

• Abadá Experience: By purchasing an abadá (a personalized T-shirt serving as a ticket), revelers can join the bloco within a roped-off area surrounding the trio elétrico. This grants access to the trio’s restrooms and beverages.
• Pipoca Experience: For those who prefer to save money, the pipoca option allows participation for free, following the blocos outside the rope.

Some of the most famous blocos include:

• Bloco Eva
• Bloco Camaleão
• Bloco Nana Banana
• Bloco Coruja
• Bloco Largadinho
• Bloco Olodum
• Bloco Vumbora

Pipoca (popcorn)

For a budget-friendly Carnival experience, pipoca is the way to go. Revelers can enjoy the trios elétricos and blocos for free, joining the crowd outside the roped-off area.

In recent years, Salvador’s City Hall has sponsored some of the biggest artists to perform free shows for pipoca participants, making the experience even more inclusive.

Carnival in Neighborhoods

Carnival in Salvador is a democratic celebration, extending to various neighborhoods, including areas far from the city’s most touristic spots. For a unique experience, check out the neighborhood celebrations in Boca do Rio, Cajazeiras, Itapuã, Liberdade, Nordeste de Amaralina, and the suburban railway districts of Periperi and Plataforma.

With so many ways to celebrate, Salvador’s Carnival offers an unforgettable experience for every taste and style. Whether in the circuits, camarotes, or street blocos, the joy and energy of this vibrant festival promise memories to last a lifetime!

Where to stay during Salvador’s Carnival

During Salvador’s Carnival, the city welcomes thousands of tourists seeking fun and excitement. Choosing the right accommodation is essential for making the most of the festivities. Here are some recommended areas to stay during Carnival:

Barra and Ondina

If you want to be close to the action, Barra and Ondina are excellent choices. These neighborhoods are near the main trio elétrico circuits, such as Barra-Ondina (Dodô).

Barra and Ondina offer a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious beachfront hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. The area also features excellent infrastructure with bars, restaurants, and tourist services.

Rio Vermelho and Pituba

For a quieter environment, Rio Vermelho and Pituba provide accommodations further from the hustle and bustle, while still offering easy access to the Carnival circuits.

Campo Grande

Campo Grande is a great option for those seeking a central location close to the Osmar circuit and Salvador’s historic center. This area offers traditional hotels, guesthouses, and flats at more affordable prices compared to Barra and Ondina.

Pelourinho

The historic center of Salvador is ideal for those who want to enjoy street Carnival with Afro blocos and afoxés. This area features charming guesthouses, hostels, and rental homes.

Regardless of your choice, it’s important to book accommodations well in advance, as hotels and guesthouses fill up quickly during Carnival. Additionally, review the location, services offered, and guest feedback to ensure a comfortable and secure stay.

Check out our Complete Guide to Pelourinho!

How to get around during Salvador’s Carnival

Salvador’s Carnival is a massive event that attracts millions of people from around the globe. To make the most of the festivities, it’s crucial to know how to navigate the city. Here are the best transportation options:

Buses

Salvador’s public transportation system operates throughout Carnival, with special routes to serve the revelers. Buses are an economical and accessible option for traveling between circuits and other areas of the city. However, they can get crowded, so plan accordingly.

Metro

The Salvador Metro is another viable transportation option during Carnival. It connects different parts of the city and offers easy access to the main circuits, particularly those in the city center (Osmar and Batatinha).

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 are available during Carnival. They provide a convenient option for those seeking comfort and practicality. Keep in mind that prices may surge due to high demand. A popular alternative is the mototáxi (motorcycle taxi), which is widely used in Salvador and perfect for shorter trips.

Walking

If you’re staying near the circuits, walking is a great way to get to the festivities. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear.

Avoid Driving

Using a private car is not recommended during Carnival. Traffic can be highly congested, and street parking is both scarce and unsafe. Private parking lots, on the other hand, can be quite expensive.

Lastly, remember that Salvador’s Carnival is a bustling event, so patience is key when moving around the city. Enjoy the vibrant energy and plan your transportation wisely to fully embrace the festivities!

Safety tips for enjoying Salvador’s Carnival

Salvador’s Carnival is one of Brazil’s most vibrant and popular festivals, drawing millions of tourists from around the world to celebrate the lively street parties. However, staying vigilant is crucial to ensure a fun and hassle-free experience. Here are some important safety tips:

1. Stay Alert

During Carnival, the streets of Salvador are packed with people, and it’s easy to get distracted by the excitement. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep track of your belongings. Avoid displaying valuable items and keep important possessions close to your body to prevent theft. Use money belts or secure pouches to store documents and valuables out of sight.

2. Avoid Isolated Areas

Avoid venturing into deserted or poorly lit areas at night, especially if you are alone. Stick to crowded and well-lit places where there are other revelers and visible security personnel.

3. Use Official Transportation

Salvador offers a variety of public transportation options during Carnival, including buses, the metro, and taxis. Opt for official transportation methods and avoid accepting rides from strangers, especially after the events end.

4. Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun

Carnival usually takes place in the peak of summer, with high temperatures and prolonged sun exposure. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and protect yourself with sunscreen, a hat or cap, and lightweight clothing.

Additionally, remember to take breaks and rest to keep your energy levels up for the festivities.

5. Follow Authorities’ Guidelines

Local authorities often provide safety recommendations and updates for revelers during Carnival. Stay informed by following official announcements and adhere to instructions to ensure your safety and that of those around you.

6. Be Cautious with Drinks from Strangers

Avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Stick to beverages from trusted sources and consume alcohol responsibly.

By following these simple tips, you can fully enjoy Salvador’s Carnival with peace of mind, creating unforgettable memories of fun and celebration!

Salvador’s Carnival is one of Brazil’s most iconic and lively celebrations, renowned for its contagious energy, captivating music, and cultural diversity. Over the years, this Carnival has drawn millions of tourists from across the globe, eager to experience its unique blend of joy and festivity.

By prioritizing safety and respecting the guidelines provided by local authorities, we wish all revelers a Salvador Carnival filled with happiness, fun, and unforgettable moments. May this special festival continue to enchant and unite people from all walks of life, celebrating Bahia’s rich culture and traditions.

Enjoy every moment of this spectacular display of colors, rhythms, and emotions, and make Salvador’s Carnival an unforgettable experience in your life!