BRAZIL CARNIVAL 2026
Join Katumba in Brazil – 2026 Trip Now Open
BRAZIL CARNIVAL 2026
Join Katumba in Brazil – 2026 Trip Now Open
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into rhythm, culture, nature & connection
Once again in 2026, Katumba is opening our legendary Brazil trip not just to band members, but to anyone ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
You’ll have three incredible ways to experience Brazil: dive into the electrifying energy of Carnival, ground yourself in a soulful retreat by the ocean, or combine both for the ultimate two-week journey.
This isn’t a package holiday. It’s the real Brazil: the people, traditions, and rhythms that inspire Katumba, curated by our co-founders Juliana (a local of Pernambuco, Brazil) and Ritchie (the most Brazilian Scot you’ll ever meet). Together, they’ll take you beyond the tourist trail, into the heartbeat of Brazil’s culture.
This isn’t a resort-style, all-inclusive booze-up. It’s a deep, joyful immersion into rhythm, wellness, nature and community.
Option 1: Beat of Brazil- Katumba Carnival Experience
5th – 18th February 2026
“The trip of a lifetime.” Not our words, but those who’ve been before.
Step into the world’s biggest street party not just as a spectator, but as a performer.
Learn from Brazilian masters in hands-on drumming and dance workshops, explore vibrant communities that bring Carnival to life, and lose yourself in parades, beats, and street celebrations.
Between the energy, there’s downtime too: sun-soaked beaches, island visits, waterfalls, and cocktails by the pool. Every activity is optional, so you can dip in at your own pace.
Highlights include:
- Play your part in one of the world’s most famous street Carnivals
- Learn maracatu, frevo, coco, samba reggae, and more from local artists
- Explore Olinda’s historic streets, Recife’s carnival magic, Itamaraca golden beaches & Maracaípe’s natural reefs
- Connect deeply with local communities and their traditions
- Go beyond the beaten path to experience the abundance of nature through nature reserves, waterfalls, native tribes, island visits and more.
Cost: Around £1950 (shared room)
Option 2: Music, Movement, Mindfulness – A Beachside Paradise Retreat
13th – 22nd February 2026
New for 2026
From Drums to Deep Connection, you’ll experience the electric intensity of Carnival, then step into a sacred space by the ocean where celebration meets transformation.
Here, Afro-Indigenous traditions meet mindfulness, sound, and movement. Guided by Juliana and local practitioners, you’ll be immersed in sound baths, ancestral chants, yoga, and embodied movement. This is your chance to reconnect to body, spirit, nature, and community.
Think: sunrise yoga by the sea, meditative drumming circles, nourishing food, and evenings under the stars.
Cost: Around £1450] (shared room)
Option 3: The Best of Both Worlds
5th – 22nd February 2026
Can’t choose between the two? Combine them for the ultimate trip!
Start with Carnival’s wild energy, then transition into a grounding, wholesome retreat.
Two weeks of music, nature, rhythm, and deep connection, culminating in pure bliss before heading home.
Cost: Around £3100 (shared room) you save £300!
Where We’ll Be
We’ll be based in Pernambuco, Juliana’s home region and the cultural heartbeat of Brazil.
From Recife and Olinda, alive with maracatu drums and carnival spirit, to coastal gems like Porto de Galinhas, Itamaraca and Maracaípe, and tranquil retreats by the sea, Pernambuco is where tradition and creativity intertwine. Expect unique, character-filled accommodations, with the option of shared or private air-conditioned rooms.
What’s Included
✔ Accommodation (shared or private)
✔ Breakfast
✔ Airport transfers (Recife)
✔ Workshops & cultural activities
✔ Carnival experiences
✔ Local transport
✔ Expert support & guidance from Juliana & Ritchie (plus interpreting)
Flights, travel insurance, personal spending, and meals (beyond breakfast) are not included.
The practical bits
Payment options
- Deposit of £400 (non-refundable, secures your place)
- The remaining balance can be split into 3 instalments, paid every 5 weeks or so
- Final balance due 4 weeks before departure
- Estimated extra spending money: £400–£600
FAQs
Do I need to be physically fit to join this trip?
Yes in different levels depending on what trip option you go for:
‘Option 1 the Katumba Carnival Experience’, it will involve lots of walking, standing, drumming, and dancing -’Option 2 Music, Movement, Mindfulness’ is less demanding, but as we’re visiting the carnival streets, they’re often on cobblestones, in the heat, and within large crowds. For safety reasons, this trip is not suitable for people who need walking aids, have limited mobility, or are recovering from recent surgery. We want every participant (and the group as a whole) to enjoy Carnival safely and fully, so please be honest with yourself about your physical ability before booking. If you’re unsure, reach out to us for a chat
Do I need lots of drumming or dance experience?
For Option one, some drumming experience, yes but by no means you need to be a drumstar: just enough you’re able to take part in the workshops, know how to hold your sticks, wear a drum, have played some in a bloco setting etc.. Either if you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, you’ll LOVE IT!!!
Do I need to take my own drum/playing kit?
No need to pack a drum! You’ll be glad to have more space in your luggage, we organise drums to be available for us there. But YES,m you will need to take your own playing kit (whatever kit you use will do. If for example taking aprt in Maracatu drumming workshops-and you don’t have a Maracatu playing kit, there will be some available there. We’ll cover this on the next step once you secure your space.
Is Carnival safe?
Carnival is vibrant and crowded, and we take safety seriously. You’ll always be with our facilitators and local partners who know the area. We’ll brief you on how to enjoy the celebration safely and confidently.
What’s included in the price?
Accommodation, breakfast, workshops, cultural activities, Carnival experiences, local transport, airport transfers (Recife), and support from Juliana and Ritchie- plus an interpreter. Flights, travel insurance, personal spending, and other meals are not included.
How much should I budget for while out there?
We recommend bringing £400–£600 spending money for meals, drinks, souvenirs and optional extra activities
What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothes, comfy walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen (you can buy this there), a refillable water bottle, and something fun for Carnival (costume or colourful clothes!). We’ll send you a full packing list before the trip.
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
No, your facilitators and interpreter will guide you throughout.
Can I have some downtime/Alone time?
Yes! All activities are optional. Join in as much or as little as feels right for you.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is essential. It must cover medical care, cancellations and your luggage
How many people will be on the retreat?
We keep the group smallish to ensure an intimate, supportive experience.
Places are limited. Secure your spot by clicking below