Crazy for Football – Tour Maracanã & Flamengo

Experience Rio’s Football Heart with the Crazy for Football Tour

If you’re a soccer fan or simply curious about Brazil’s legendary football culture, this Crazy for Football – Tour Maracanã & Flamengo offers a well-rounded peek behind the scenes. Priced at $110 per person, it spans roughly 6 hours and includes iconic stops at Maracanã Stadium, Flamengo’s headquarters, and the Flamengo Museum. Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

What we particularly love about this tour is the behind-the-scenes access—you’re not just touring from afar but stepping into the dressing rooms, sitting on the players’ bench, and walking the sidelines of one of the most famous stadiums in the world. Plus, the visit to Flamengo’s headquarters offers a personal look at the club’s storied history, making it a hit for those who want more than just sightseeing.

A minor caveat is that tickets for games or events in Maracanã are not included, so if you want to catch a match, you’ll need to arrange those separately. Also, the tour is best suited for those who enjoy a group setting and are comfortable with about 19 participants max.

In short, this tour is perfect for football enthusiasts and travelers eager to understand Brazil’s passionate football culture. If you’re looking for a mix of stadium history, local club pride, and authentic experiences, this tour will not disappoint.

Key Points

• In-depth access to Maracanã Stadium, including dressing rooms and sidelines
• Comprehensive visit to Flamengo headquarters and museum
• Guided tours in three languages—English, Portuguese, and Spanish
• Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• All entrance fees included in the price
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in Rio’s main South Zone neighborhoods—Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, and Leblon. Transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort on the roughly 6-hour journey.

First Stop: Maracanã Stadium (1 hour)

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Maracanã, a true mecca of football. You’ll step onto the field, sit on the players’ bench, and enter the dressing rooms—places most fans only see on TV. The included admission ticket grants access to these areas, allowing you to take memorable photos and get a feel for the scale of the stadium.

Travelers consistently praise the guided commentary, with Thomas_M calling his guide “THE best” and noting how much he enjoyed the experience. This segment offers a tangible connection to football’s history and Brazil’s love for the game, making it more than just a walk-through.

Second Stop: Gávea and Flamengo’s Headquarters (30 minutes)

Next, a short drive takes you to Gávea, Flamengo’s training ground and main club headquarters. Here, you’ll get to know the club’s main areas—a glimpse into what makes Flamengo one of Brazil’s most beloved teams. Although this stop is brief, it’s a valuable opportunity to see where the team trains and learn about their history and local significance.

Third Stop: Flamengo Museum (1 hour 45 minutes)

The final, and most extensive, part of the tour is the visit to the Clube de Regatas do Flamengo Museum. This museum showcases memorable trophies, historical photos, jerseys, and memorabilia. It’s a place where fans can relive glorious moments and connect with Mengão’s proud heritage.

Reviewers like Anup_P appreciated the knowledgeable guide who provided English explanations, ensuring non-Portuguese speakers also enjoy the experience. The museum visit leaves many fans with a deeper appreciation for Flamengo’s role in Brazilian football and local culture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes all entrance fees, guided transportation, and professional tour commentary in multiple languages. Pickup and drop-off at your South Zone hotel make logistics straightforward.

However, tickets for actual games or events in Maracanã are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if interested. Also, food and drinks are not provided, but there are snack bars at each attraction.

Gratuities are optional, and most travelers find the value of the included access and expert guides well worth the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for football fans, sports history buffs, or travelers who want a close-up look at Brazil’s football icons. The reviews highlight the importance of knowledgeable guides—many mention Raquel, who made the experience especially memorable. If you’re a passionate supporter or simply curious about the sport’s cultural importance in Brazil, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Those looking for a more active or game-day experience should note that actual match tickets are not part of this tour, and it won’t get you into stadium events. But if you want to walk the halls of football history, this tour hits the spot.

A Balanced Look at the Experience

The 6-hour length strikes a good balance—long enough to explore the key sites without feeling rushed. The cost of $110 includes many important aspects, like museum access and stadium entry, so you’re getting solid value for a comprehensive look at Rio’s football scene.

The guided nature of the tour, with staff speaking multiple languages, adds to its appeal, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with Portuguese. The small group size (maximum 19 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience and opportunities to ask questions.

One possible downside is that tickets for matches aren’t included—so if your main goal is to attend a game, you’ll need to plan that separately. Also, if you aren’t a dedicated football fan, some of the stadium’s historical details might feel less engaging.

What We Loved

• The authentic access to dressing rooms and players’ areas at Maracanã
• The informative and friendly guides who enhance the experience with detailed explanations
• The convenience of hotel pickup and transportation in a comfortable vehicle
• The opportunity to relive Flamengo’s achievements at the museum

What to Consider

• The brief stops mean you won’t get a deep dive into every aspect of Flamengo or Maracanã’s history
• The ticket-only model for stadium access might require additional planning if you want to see a game
• The group size of up to 19 might not suit those seeking a private experience

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers an engaging, behind-the-scenes view of two of Rio’s most iconic football landmarks. It’s especially valuable for fans eager to connect with Brazil’s passionate football culture, and those who appreciate guided tours with expert commentary. The combination of stadium access, museum visits, and club history makes it well worth the price if you’re interested in sports or local culture.

While it’s not suited for those seeking game tickets or a private experience, the tour’s well-organized logistics and knowledgeable guides make it a practical choice for most visitors. Be sure to book in advance—most travelers reserve about 26 days ahead—and prepare to step into some of Brazil’s most celebrated football moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from the main South Zone hotels (Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, Leblon) are included for your convenience.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tickets for matches included?
No, tickets for games or events in Maracanã are not included, so you will need to purchase those separately if you want to attend a match.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Portuguese?
Absolutely. The tour is offered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and guides are skilled at accommodating non-Portuguese speakers.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 19 travelers, making it a comfortable, intimate group.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes—especially if they are interested in football. The guide’s commentary and the stadium walk are engaging for all ages, but check with the provider if you have very young children.

Are there food options available during the tour?
Food and drinks are not included, but snack bars are available at each attraction for a quick refreshment.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bring a camera for photos, and consider a hat or sunscreen if touring during sunny weather.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 26 days ahead to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.

Embarking on this tour provides a unique look at Rio’s football passion—covering history, culture, and the thrill of standing where legends have played. Whether you’re a devoted supporter or simply love the sport, this experience promises meaningful memories and a deeper understanding of Brazil’s soccer obsession.