Getting the most from Rio’s dinner shows means choosing wisely. After testing several options, three tours stand out for both value and authenticity. The Ginga Tropical Music Show offers a complete package at $220 – including door-to-door transport, dinner, and professional cultural performances. For pure entertainment value, the Roxy Dinner Show packs traditional music, dance, and good food into four memorable hours. My favorite remains the Samba-and-barbecue combo tours, where you’ll feast on endless Brazilian meats while watching high-energy dance shows without waiting in lines. While waterfront venues add ambiance, budget travelers should consider the lively local clubs in Lapa neighborhood. Let’s explore the best dinner show options Rio has to offer.
Key Points
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The Ginga Tropical Music Show Tour is a top-rated dinner tour in Rio de Janeiro, priced at $220 per person and including a professional bilingual guide, show tickets, full dinner, and drinks.
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The Roxy Dinner Show Experience offers an immersive cultural experience with traditional music, dance, and cuisine prepared by a renowned chef, priced at $190 per person.
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The Samba Show Admission & Dinner Option combines an all-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue dinner with a professional Samba show, including transportation and skip-the-line access.
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The Authentic Samba Show Experience is a more budget-friendly option at $79 per person, including a live samba show and international and Brazilian dinner, with hotel and port pickups.
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The Waterfront Dinner & Live Music Experience features a 3-hour tour with a starter, main course, dessert, and one drink, as well as live music performances spanning samba, jazz, and Brazilian genres.
13 – Guided Tour to Ginga Tropical Music Show With Dinner
One of the top-rated dinner tours in Rio de Janeiro is the Guided Tour to Ginga Tropical Music Show with Dinner.
This tour offers a professional bilingual guide, show tickets, and a full dinner with drinks and dessert.
Pickup is available from hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Lapa, though Barra da Tijuca and Recreio aren’t included.
The tour runs rain or shine, with a maximum of 20 travelers. Priced from $220 per person, it’s a flexible option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the company disclaims responsibility for lost items.
Read our full review: 13 – Guided Tour to Ginga Tropical Music Show With Dinner Review
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Roxy Dinner Show: Brazilian Cultural Show & Dinner
Designed to immerse visitors in the vibrant culture of Brazil, the Roxy Dinner Show offers a captivating experience that combines traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
For $190 per person, guests can enjoy a 4-hour tour that includes a Roxy Dinner Show and round-trip transportation from select hotels.
The show features performances of traditional dances, Bossa Nova music, and a participatory “Aquele Abraço” production showcasing Funk, Forró, Samba, and MPB.
Diners can savor a full-service dinner prepared by renowned chef Danilo Parah.
While some reviews note a lack of structure and explanation, the Roxy Dinner Show promises to provide an immersive cultural experience in the historic Roxy nightclub.
Read our full review: Roxy Dinner Show: Brazilian Cultural Show & Dinner Review
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Samba Show Admission & Transfer With Dinner Option
What sets this Samba Show Admission & Transfer With Dinner Option apart is its immersive cultural experience.
Visitors can enjoy an all-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue dinner before witnessing a professional Samba show. The tour includes transportation and skip-the-line access to the theater.
After the performance, guests can even learn basic Samba moves.
While reviews are mixed, many praise the food quality and cultural authenticity. However, some customers report issues with communication and feel the show didn’t meet expectations.
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Rio De Janeiro: Waterfront Dinner & Live Music Experience
Situated along Rio de Janeiro’s stunning waterfront, the Waterfront Dinner & Live Music Experience offers visitors an immersive cultural evening.
Priced from €55.83 per person, the 3-hour tour includes a waterfront dinner with a starter, main course, dessert, and one drink. Guests can choose from various menu options like oxtail dumpling, fried pastéis, or ceviche.
The experience also features live music performances spanning samba, jazz, and Brazilian popular genres. Transportation to and from hotels is included.
However, with a 3.4/5 rating based on mixed reviews, some customers have reported dissatisfaction with the food quality and limited menu options.
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Waterfront Dinner and Live Music in Rio De Janeiro
The Waterfront Dinner and Live Music in Rio De Janeiro offers visitors an immersive cultural experience along the city’s stunning coastline.
This 3-hour activity includes a delectable dinner with a choice of five menu options, complemented by live music and roundtrip transportation from hotels.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the intimate setting allows for a personalized experience.
However, previous guests have reported issues with delays, language barriers, and incorrect food orders, indicating room for improvement in customer service and quality control.
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Rio: Ginga Tropical Folkloric Show & Optional Dinner
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Rio de Janeiro can embark on the Rio: Ginga Tropical Folkloric Show & Optional Dinner. Priced from $142 per person, this 4-hour activity showcases Brazilian singers, dancers in elaborate costumes, and diverse dances like Ziriguidum, Folklore, Capoeira, and samba.
Guests can opt for a culinary adventure at an authentic churrascaria-style restaurant, savoring the scents of roast beef and barbecue.
While the tour includes hotel transfers, a guide, and beverages, reviews indicate mixed experiences, with some complaints about the dinner not being provided and the venue size.
Photography and video recording aren’t allowed inside the show.
Read our full review: Rio: Ginga Tropical Folkloric Show & Optional Dinner Review
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Folklore Show Ginga Tropical With Optional Dinner
Nestled in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, the Folklore Show Ginga Tropical offers an immersive cultural experience showcasing the vibrant music, dance, and traditions of Brazil.
This tour, operated by Tangol, provides a maximum of 20 travelers with a 4.5-star-rated folklore show and optional Brazilian BBQ dinner. Priced from $125 per person, the tour includes a bilingual guide, air-conditioned transportation, and beverages.
Reviewers praise the exciting samba performance, delicious dinner, and memorable experience. While not wheelchair accessible, infants can attend.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Ginga Tropical show is an excellent way to discover Rio’s vibrant cultural heritage.
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Rio De Janeiro: Brazilian Music at Rio Scenarium With Dinner
For an unforgettable evening in Rio de Janeiro, visitors can enjoy the vibrant Brazilian music scene at the legendary Rio Scenarium.
This 4-hour experience includes a dinner at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, followed by a visit to the top-rated bar, where live musicians perform captivating Brazilian music.
Located in the bohemian Lapa neighborhood, Rio Scenarium boasts a unique, quirky decor that enhances the lively atmosphere.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the entrance fee, and dinner, with drinks available for purchase.
With a 5/5 rating based on a glowing review, this tour promises a fun and enjoyable evening for music and culture enthusiasts.
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12 – Guided Scenarium River Tour With Dinner
Embarking on a captivating Guided Scenarium River Tour with Dinner, visitors can enjoy the vibrant heart of Rio de Janeiro.
This 5-star rated tour offers a professional bilingual guide, transportation, show tickets, and a delectable dinner with drinks and desserts.
Pickup is available from select hotels, though Barra da Tijuca and Recreio are excluded.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the shared tour starts at 7 PM and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Guests can freely cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours in advance, but no refunds are given for bad weather.
At €115.50 per person, this tour provides a discounted price and the lowest price guarantee.
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Rio De Janeiro: Romantic Dinner on a Speedboat
Couples seeking a truly romantic evening in Rio de Janeiro can indulge in a captivating Dinner on a Speedboat experience.
This 3-hour tour whisks guests away on a private speedboat, offering stunning views of Rio’s iconic landmarks as they savor a gourmet four-course meal.
Priced at $76.85 per person (discounted to $46.11), the experience includes an open bar, making it an ideal choice for a special date night.
With a 4.5-star rating from 227 reviews, this unique activity allows couples to create lasting memories while immersed in Rio’s breathtaking natural beauty.
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Brazilian Meats and Snacks + South American Wines Guided Dinner
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Rio de Janeiro can indulge in the Brazilian Meats and Snacks + South American Wines Guided Dinner at the Carretão Ipanema Classic Grill.
This 5-star rated dinner tour features a menu of appetizers, salads, various meats and fish, Brazilian desserts, and South American wines. Rated 100% recommended by travelers, the experience starts at 7 PM and accommodates up to 12 guests.
The accessibility is inclusive, with infant seats, stroller access, and wheelchair-friendly options. Priced from $79 per person with free cancellation, this guided dinner offers an excellent value for a cultural engagement through food.
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Authentic Samba Show in Rio De Janeiro With Dinner
Visitors to Rio de Janeiro can enjoy the vibrant heart of Brazilian culture with the Authentic Samba Show in Rio De Janeiro With Dinner.
This 5-star rated experience takes guests to a historic theater in Leblon, where they’ll enjoy an evening of live samba entertainment and an international and Brazilian dinner with drinks.
The tour includes convenient hotel and port pickups and drop-offs, as well as a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Travelers must be at least 3 years old to attend, and infants can sit on laps.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cultural experience is an excellent option for those seeking an authentic taste of Rio.
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Rio Scenarium: Fast Track Entrance, Dinner & Open Bar
Attendees of the Rio Scenarium: Fast Track Entrance, Dinner & Open Bar experience can enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Lapa, Rio de Janeiro.
This package includes fast-track entry to the unique nightclub, which features three levels with different musical themes. Guests can enjoy a 3-course dinner and an open bar with selected drinks.
The eclectic and flamboyant decor enhances the experience. While the reviews are mixed, with criticism regarding food quality and pricing, the package offers a convenient way to explore the lively atmosphere of Rio Scenarium.
Travelers should be aware of potential issues with punctuality and communication from the local operator.
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Dinner & Rio Scenarium Nightclub Admission With Transfer
This package offers a convenient way for visitors to experience the vibrant nightlife of Lapa, Rio de Janeiro. It includes dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria and admission to the renowned Rio Scenarium nightclub, along with round-trip transportation.
The tour starts at 7 PM and picks up guests from select hotels. However, the reviews are mixed, with complaints about food quality, service, and the overall dining atmosphere.
Some guests also felt the nightclub lacked the expected samba dancers and energy. While this tour provides a streamlined experience, independent exploration of Lapa’s smaller clubs may offer a more authentic and enjoyable night out.
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Recap
The best dinner tours in Rio de Janeiro offer a variety of experiences, from guided tours to music shows, to samba performances, and waterfront dining with live music. These tours provide an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to savor delicious Brazilian cuisine while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Whether you’re interested in music, dance, or simply good food, there’s a dinner tour in Rio that’s sure to satisfy.