Enjoy Carnival with Bloco Paquetá in Rio de Janeiro

Bloco dos Serragens in Paquetá is one of the most charming ways to experience Carnival outside the rush of central Rio. Paquetá is a small island in Guanabara Bay with a slower pace, leafy streets, and a totally different vibe from the big-city blocos. That’s exactly why this bloco feels so special: it’s Carnival energy, but with island character—more local, more relaxed, and still full of drums, costumes, and smiles.

Meeting at 09:00 at Rio & Learn
Cost: R$ 300

Before the bloco starts, we’ll also take time to explore the historic part of Paquetá. The island has a very traditional feel, with old streets, peaceful squares, and corners that seem frozen in time. As we walk, we’ll share a bit of the island’s history and local stories, notice the details that make Paquetá unique, and enjoy the calm side of Rio that most visitors never get to see. It’s the perfect warm-up before the drums begin, especially because it gives us even more chances to practice Portuguese naturally while we explore.

Bloco dos Serragens

Bloco dos Serragens usually starts as a “concentração” at midday and brings music and movement to the streets of Paquetá. It’s the kind of bloco where you’ll hear people singing along, greeting friends, and shouting classic Carnival phrases like “bora!” (let’s go!) and “bom demais!” (so good!). Even if you don’t speak much Portuguese yet, Paquetá is a friendly place to practice. People are open, the atmosphere is light, and you’ll pick up a lot just by being there.

On this RioLIVE! Activity we’ll go together to Paquetá by ferry, explore the island vibe, and join the bloco with locals. We’ll enjoy the music, take great pictures, and put our Portuguese into practice in real life—ordering a drink, asking where the bloco is heading, and understanding little Carnival phrases that make you feel part of it. If you want a Carnival memory that feels authentic, fun, and a bit different from the usual “Rio chaos,” this is it.

Yasmin Teixeira is Rio & Learn’s RioLIVE! Supervisor, bringing a strong background in hospitality, tourism, and event operations, which makes her a perfect match for leading unforgettable experiences in Rio. With hands-on experience coordinating corporate events and service teams in major hotels, she’s skilled at planning logistics, ensuring high service standards, and delivering smooth, guest-focused execution from start to finish. Her international experience in Germany and a natural talent for welcoming and assisting people means she knows how to create a warm, organized, and engaging environment for our students. Yasmin blends professionalism, energy, and attention to detail, exactly what RioLIVE! needs to run with excellence.