A Fun Night Out in Rio: Latin Music, Dancing, and Local Vibes
This tour at Pura Vida Hostel offers a lively slice of Rio’s nightlife, combining a Latin music dance class, live DJs, free drinks, and a chance to mingle with locals and travelers alike. For just $11 per person, you get roughly 3.5 hours of entertainment, starting around 7 pm, with options to extend the night into a boat party or a club visit. Located in the Southeast Region of Brazil, this experience is designed to give you a taste of Rio’s infectious rhythm, warm hospitality, and vibrant social scene.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are: first, the professional dance instructor who makes learning Latin moves fun and accessible, even if you’re a complete beginner; second, the infectious energy of the live DJs playing a mix of Latin, African, Brazilian, Funk, and Lounge music, which keeps the vibe high well into the night. A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include transportation—so you’ll need to plan how to get there or away. Still, this experience is best suited for those who enjoy music, dance, and socializing in a relaxed, authentic setting. It’s perfect if you’re craving a lively, culturally rich night out rather than a typical bar crawl.
Key Points

- Affordable Price: At only $11, this tour offers excellent value with drinks, dance lessons, and live entertainment included.
- Authentic Fun: The mix of Latin, African, and Brazilian music creates a genuine local vibe, augmented by live guitar performances.
- Inclusive Atmosphere: With a dance class, drinks, and chances to meet both locals and international travelers, it’s a sociable experience.
- Flexible Options: The tour includes opportunities to extend your night into a boat party or club, making it adaptable to your energy level.
- Expert Guidance: The dance instructor is praised for being lively, patient, and multilingual—helping even novices enjoy their time.
- Great Value for Money: The combination of music, dance, drinks, and food at this price point is hard to beat in Rio.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Starting Point and Meeting Details
The tour begins near Rua Sá Ferreira, in a safe area just a short walk from the Gen Osório metro station (exit “D”). The meeting point is conveniently located at the second house on the right side of Saint Roman Street, around 20 meters up from the corner. The location is friendly and relaxed, setting the tone for what’s to come. Expect to gather at the hostel’s deck bar, where the vibe is casual and welcoming—a perfect spot to meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
The Itinerary Breakdown
7 pm – Kickoff at the Deck Bar:
The night kicks off with two included drinks of your choice. The bar offers a variety of options—local beers, caipirinhas, or other beverages—giving you a chance to unwind and socialize. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with music already setting the mood.
9 pm – Latin Music Dance Class:
This is the highlight for many—a one-hour dance class led by a professional instructor who speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and English. From the reviews, we learn that the class is both fun and patient, with Camilo (the instructor) exuding infectious enthusiasm. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete novice, you’ll pick up some basic Latin moves, gaining confidence to dance along to the music afterwards. The instructor’s multilingual skills mean you’re in good hands, and the class also serves as a great way to meet new people.
Post-Dance & Live DJ Session:
After the class, the DJ resumes playing a mix of Latin, African, Brazilian, Funk, and Lounge music, providing a lively backdrop for practicing your new moves or just relaxing with a drink. As one reviewer put it, the vibe is a “mix of local and international people” and the music creates an upbeat, energetic environment.
Additional Activities & Options
- Boat Party by the Bay:
Many guests choose to extend their night by purchasing tickets to a boat party on Guanabara Bay. Tickets are available at the reception at a discounted rate, and the boat cruise offers stunning views of Rio’s skyline and the bay, adding a memorable visual dimension to the night. - Substatio Club Night:
Alternatively, if dancing into the early hours sounds appealing, you can buy a ticket to head over to Substatio, a known local club with a vibrant scene. The staff can assist with tickets and transportation, making this option accessible for those wanting a true Rio nightlife experience.
What’s Included & What’s Not
The tour’s $11 price includes two drinks, the dance class, live guitar performance, and the DJ playing continuous music. You’ll also get a chance to try a 1-liter bucket of Caipirinha or local beer, which is quite generous and helps keep the night affordable and fun.
However, transportation is not included—you’ll need to arrange your ride to and from the meeting point. Additional drinks, food (which is available for purchase), and special activities like tarot sessions or the boat party are extra. The boat tickets, in particular, add a fantastic opportunity to see Rio from the water and meet more travelers, but they do cost extra.
The Authenticity Factor
What makes this experience stand out is its authentic local flavor. The music played by live DJs is a true reflection of Rio’s vibrant scene, while the dance class offers a chance to learn and participate in traditional rhythms. According to reviews, the vibe is friendly and inclusive, not touristy or overly commercialized.
Who Will Love This Night?

This tour is best suited for music lovers, dance enthusiasts, and those who enjoy socializing in laid-back environments. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to experience Rio’s nightlife with a cultural twist, you’ll find this a great fit. It’s particularly appealing if you want to try your hand at Latin dancing or simply enjoy good music and drinks in a safe, friendly setting.
Travelers who appreciated the professional guidance and welcoming atmosphere will be pleased, especially since many reviews mention how much fun they had, and how easy it was to make new friends. However, if you’re seeking a more glamorous or exclusive experience, this might not be the right choice—this tour keeps things casual, authentic, and accessible.
The Sum Up

The Latin Music Dance Class + DJs + 2 Free Drinks tour at Pura Vida Hostel offers an affordable, lively, and authentic taste of Rio’s nightlife. With a professional dance instructor, live music, and friendly crowd, it’s a perfect way to spend an evening if you’re looking to dance, relax, and meet new people.
The experience’s value for money is impressive, considering the included drinks, dance lesson, and entertainment. It’s especially great for those interested in learning Latin rhythms, enjoying local music, or simply soaking up Rio’s infectious energy. Expect to leave with a smile, some new dance moves, and unforgettable memories of Rio’s vibrant night scene.
If you enjoy music, socializing, and cultural experiences that are informal but high-spirited, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to plan your transportation, arrive with an open mind, and be ready to dance the night away in one of South America’s most lively cities.
FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there or away.
What should I bring?
A valid passport or ID card is recommended. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for dancing.
Can I participate if I don’t dance well?
Absolutely. The dance instructor is praised for being patient and encouraging. It’s all about having fun, not perfecting moves.
Are drinks included?
Yes, you get two drinks of your choice, plus the option to try a large bucket of Caipirinha or local beer.
Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention meeting friends and making connections, making it ideal for solo travelers.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, starting around 7 pm. Check availability for exact starting times.
What music is played?
A mix of Latin, African, Brazilian, Funk, and Lounge music, with live guitar performances adding a special touch.
Are children allowed?
No, the activity is suitable for those 18 and older.
Is the location safe?
Yes, the meeting point is in a 100% safe area, and the hostel staff emphasize safety.
Can I extend my night after the tour?
Yes, you can buy tickets at the reception for a boat party or club night if you want to keep going.
This tour offers a genuine slice of Rio’s nightlife with a welcoming atmosphere, lively music, and the chance to learn some dance moves—perfect for anyone eager to dive into local culture, make new friends, and have a memorable evening.
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