Brazil · WORKSHOPS
Every itinerary has one day too few. These 15 workshops & classes are the ones to give it to, priced and timed so the decision takes minutes rather than an evening.
Beginner samba lesson in Ipanema with Carla, Ranaa or Gaby. Fun 1 hour, small group, costumes, and photo recap. $25.
“Gaby was an incredible instructor and really brought the positive energy to this samba class! I would highly recommend and can’t wait to come back!”
One-hour Copacabana samba class in Rio. Beginner friendly, bilingual coach, water and toilet. Learn moves, meet people, get Rio nightlife tips.
“The instructor was through in our improvement so we felt we were learning something new! And at the end of the lesson we took some photos with our national flags and with some classic carnival costumes! It's a must activity for a tourist!”
Learn samba in Ipanema for all levels, then try carnival costumes and get photos and videos sent after your class.
“We went with friends to try samba for the first time, it was super nice and sweaty ahah and Carla is amazing!”
Learn samba basics near Ipanema, then head to a lively Lapa nightclub with fast-pass entry and a guide who handles the logistics.
“It was a wonderfull evening that started with one hour of learning the basic steps and continued with a visit in a samba club. The guide took care of every thing keeping us happy. Good job. Highly recommended.”
A hands-on cooking class in Salvador da Bahia with Chef Karla, market shopping, caipirinhas, pão de queijo, moqueca, and brigadeiro, all in one meal.
“The experience was fantastic. Karla is an amazing person and guide. She communicated with me before the experience to change the menu (because I told her that I'm not a seafood lover). It was a 100% personalized experience. Thank you for your time, kindness, and knowledge. Everything was perfect.”
Rio churrasco in Copacabana: cook 10 Brazilian BBQ favorites, sip bottomless caipirinhas and batida de coco, and leave with recipes.
“Wonderful experience. This was the best way to end our vacation. The chef was very personable, and he made things very fun. Delicious food and the best drink tutorial that we all enjoyed.”
Learn samba basics in a 1-hour class, then head to a Rio club or street party for live music and guided dancing for about 4 hours.
“I recently attended a samba class, and it was an absolute blast! The dancers were incredibly skilled and brought so much energy and passion to their moves, making it easy to get into the rhythm. The instructor broke down the steps well, ensuring everyone could follow along, regardless of skill level. After in-class introduction we went to a vibrant club with colorful lights and upbeat music, which added to the festive atmosphere. It felt like being part of a lively samba party! Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to enjoy a fun, energetic experience, this class is a must-try.”
$12 Rio combo at Pura Vida Hostel: learn caipirinha, take a 1 hour samba class, then enjoy 2 drinks and a Gabriela shot.
“I've always wanted to know how to dance samba. The teacher is professional and knows a lot abt it, and besides, it's pretty nice, and she's always smiling. The Caipirinha Workshop was also so cool that I've done it twice! Also, Atlas (the WS intructor) is super helpful and has a great energy! I felt very welcomed at Pura Vida hostel and def wanna go back!”
Hands-on Salvador da Bahia cooking class in a real home kitchen. Learn 9 recipes like moqueca and farofa, plus unlimited drinks.
“The best host Karla collected us at the market and at her home we cooked made cocktails and relaxed totally. A wonderful 5 star experience. I'd do it all again. Book it asap..”
One hour samba class in Copacabana to learn real steps, meet people, and get coached by pros for $35, no partner needed.
“Where to find the studio, as it is on the 6th floor of a mixed working office block on a main road through a doorway.”
Small-group surf lesson at Arpoador, Ipanema. Learn paddle, pop up, and safety with trilingual coaching, all gear included.
“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!”
Beginner-friendly capoeira class at Mestre Bimba’s first-ever school in Salvador. Learn moves, music, and cultural roots in 1 hour for $43.
“I absolutely loved this Capoeira class. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but it turned out to be such a rich and engaging experience. Learning about the history and cultural roots of Capoeira alongside the physical movements made it so much more meaningful than just a workout. The teacher was fantastic — warm, welcoming, and incredibly supportive throughout. I’d highly recommend this class to anyone looking to try something energising, cultural, and empowering.”
Cook 9 Brazilian dishes in a Rio home-style class in Ipanema, choose your main, make caipirinha, then eat together. Small group.
“Erica was a great host showing us how to cook traditional Brazilian foods. Was very delicious and the unlimited caipirinhas was a big plus. Erica was super nice friendly as well as her colleague who was there helping. When eating our meal she gave us great recommendations as well. Would love to do again!”
Copacabana and Ipanema surf lessons with local instructors, gear included, safety coaching, and optional photos and videos in Rio.
“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?”
1.5 hour surf lesson in Barra da Lagoa, Florianópolis with Sea Wolf Surf School. Gear included, small group, safety coaching, great value.
“Such a fun experience I can highly recommend it! The teacher was very attentive and made sure that I got the most out of the lesson. I definitely want to go again when I’m back in town!”
Pick a coast, a city or a river, and start there.
