Beto Carrero World: The Complete 2025 Guide

Beto Carrero World is Latin America's largest theme park and a beloved destination that welcomes over 2 million visitors annually. Located on the beautiful Santa Catarina coast in southern Brazil, this massive park combines thrilling rides, licensed attractions, live shows, and a zoo — all at prices that offer exceptional value compared to North American parks.

The Legacy of Beto Carrero

The park is named after João Batista Sérgio Murad, known as "Beto Carrero" — a beloved Brazilian TV personality, businessman, and cowboy entertainer who built this park from his personal fortune. His vision of creating a world-class entertainment destination accessible to Brazilian families lives on today, making this one of the most visited theme parks in the world outside the US and Europe.

Key Stats:

• 14 million square meters (one of the world's largest theme parks by area)
• 100+ attractions across multiple themed zones
• Licensed IP areas: Hot Wheels, Madagascar, Shrek
• On-site zoo with over 700 animals
• 2+ million visitors annually

Themed Areas

Hot Wheels Epic Show City

Brazil's exclusive Hot Wheels land, featuring:

• Hot Wheels Racing — High-speed racing coaster
• Hot Wheels Epic Show — Live stunt show with real cars performing loops and jumps
• Hot Wheels Store — Exclusive merchandise

The Epic Show is not to be missed — professional stunt drivers perform incredible feats in real Hot Wheels-themed vehicles.

Madagascar

DreamWorks' beloved characters come to life:

• Madagascar Crazy River Falls — Family raft ride through Madagascar scenes
• King Julien Beach Bash — Interactive character show
• Madagascar character meet & greets — Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman

Avenida das Nações (Avenue of Nations)

International theming with architecture from around the world:

• German Village — Shops and food
• Italian Plaza — Mediterranean theming
• Swiss Corner — Alpine charm

Old West (Velho Oeste)

Western-themed area honoring Beto Carrero's cowboy heritage:

• Western shows — Shootouts and stunts
• Themed restaurants — Cowboy cuisine
• Train ride — Scenic journey through the area

Mundo Animal (Animal World)

A complete zoo integrated into the theme park:

• Safari Tour — Drive-through experience
• Big cats, primates, and exotic animals
• Preservation and education programs

Top Attractions

Thrill Rides

Big Tower — South America's Tallest Drop

At 100 meters (328 feet), the Big Tower offers:

• Stunning views of the Atlantic coast
• Freefall experience at extreme speeds
• Height Requirement: 1.4m (55")

FireWhip — Brazil's Best Coaster

A Maurer launch coaster featuring:

• Launch Speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)
• Inversions: Multiple loops and corkscrews
• Compact but intense layout
• Height Requirement: 1.4m (55")

Family Attractions

Live Shows

Beto Carrero World is famous for its live entertainment:

Hot Wheels Epic Show

• Type: Live automotive stunt show
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Features: Real cars, loops, jumps, fire effects
• Showtimes: Check daily schedule
• Rating: Must-see

Grande Desafio (Great Challenge)

• Type: Aerial acrobatics and stunts
• Features: Motorcycle stunts, high-wire acts
• Included: With admission

Excalibur

• Type: Medieval jousting and combat show
• Setting: Castle arena
• Features: Horses, swordplay, pyrotechnics

Madagascar Character Shows

• Multiple shows throughout the day
• Meet and greets available

Tip: Pick up a show schedule at the entrance and plan your day around the must-see performances.

Ticket Prices 2025

*USD prices approximate based on exchange rates — check current rates.

Value Note: At roughly $45 USD for adult admission, Beto Carrero offers exceptional value compared to major North American parks ($150+).

Dining Options

Restaurants

• Cantina Italiana — Pizza, pasta, Italian classics
• Churrascaria — Traditional Brazilian BBQ
• Praça de Alimentação — Food court with multiple options
• Western Saloon — American-style food in Old West area
• Madagascar Café — Character-themed dining

Food Tips

• Brazilian portions are generous
• Açaí bowls available — try this Brazilian specialty
• Bring your own food is allowed (water and snacks)
• Food prices are reasonable by theme park standards

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Seasons

• Best Weather: March-May, September-November (spring/fall)
• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and crowded — Brazilian vacation season
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler but fewer crowds
• Rainy Days: Some outdoor shows may be cancelled

Crowd Patterns

• Lowest Crowds: Weekdays during Brazilian school year (March-June, August-November)
• Moderate: Weekends outside holidays
• Busiest: Brazilian summer vacation (December-February), July school holidays, Carnaval

Operating Hours

• Standard: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Peak Season: Extended to 8:00 PM or later
• Shows: Begin mid-morning; check daily schedule

Important: Beto Carrero sometimes closes on certain weekdays during low season. Always verify operating days before traveling.

Getting to Beto Carrero World

By Air

Nearest Airports:

• Navegantes Airport (NVT): 20 km — 30 minutes
• Joinville Airport (JOI): 90 km — 90 minutes
• Florianópolis Airport (FLN): 130 km — 2 hours

By Car

• From Florianópolis: ~130 km north on BR-101
• From Curitiba: ~185 km south on BR-101
• From São Paulo: ~600 km (7-8 hour drive)

Parking

• Standard: R$50/day (~$10 USD)
• Large lots with tram service to entrance

By Bus

• Inter-city buses to Penha from major cities
• Local transport from Penha to park

Where to Stay

On-Site Hotel

Beto Carrero World Hotel

• Direct park access
• Themed rooms
• Packages available
• Price: From R$400/night

Nearby Options

Penha Beach Area:

• Multiple hotels and pousadas (guesthouses)
• Beach access nearby
• 10-20 minute drive to park
• Budget to mid-range options

Balneário Camboriú:

• Major resort city 30 km south
• Excellent hotel selection
• Vibrant nightlife
• 30-40 minute drive to park

Practical Information

What to Bring

• Sunscreen — Brazilian sun is strong
• Comfortable walking shoes — Large park
• Swimwear — Water rides will soak you
• Cash (BRL) — Some vendors may not accept cards
• Portable charger — Long day ahead

Language

• Staff primarily speak Portuguese
• Limited English at main guest services
• Translation apps helpful
• Signs increasingly bilingual

Safety

• Beto Carrero is a safe, family-friendly environment
• Keep valuables secure
• Use lockers for rides
• Stay hydrated in summer

Insider Tips

Maximize Your Visit

1. Arrive at Opening — Head to FireWhip and Big Tower first
2. Watch Show Schedule — Plan around Hot Wheels Epic Show
3. Visit Zoo Mid-Day — When ride lines peak
4. Madagascar in Afternoon — Character shows continue all day
5. Stay Until Close — Lines shorten dramatically

Best Value Strategy

• Visit on weekdays during school season
• Bring snacks to supplement park food
• Skip Passaporte Rápido on low-crowd days
• Book hotel packages for multi-day value

Accessibility

• Wheelchair Rentals: Available at entrance
• Accessibility Guide: At Guest Services
• Many Shows: Accessible seating available
• Zoo: Mostly flat and accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Beto Carrero World worth visiting for international tourists?

Yes! While primarily a Brazilian destination, international visitors find excellent value, unique attractions, and a glimpse into Brazilian entertainment culture. The Hot Wheels area and live shows are world-class.

How does it compare to Disney World?

Different experiences. Beto Carrero offers great value, unique Brazilian flavor, and excellent live shows, but lacks Disney's IP depth and technological sophistication. At 1/4 the price, it's an excellent alternative for value-conscious travelers.

Can I visit Beto Carrero in one day?

Yes, one long day covers major attractions and shows. Two days allows a more relaxed pace and zoo time. The park's size means prioritizing is important.

Is the zoo ethical?

Beto Carrero has invested in animal welfare and participates in conservation programs. Standards have improved significantly in recent years. Animals have spacious enclosures by zoo standards.

What's the best coaster in the park?

FireWhip is the star coaster — an intense launch coaster with multiple inversions. It's competitive with mid-tier coasters at major US parks.

Do I need to speak Portuguese?

Not essential but helpful. Staff at main guest services speak some English. The app and signage are increasingly bilingual. Having basic Portuguese phrases helps.

The Brazilian Theme Park Experience

Beto Carrero World offers something you won't find at Disney or Universal — an authentically Brazilian entertainment experience. From the emphasis on spectacular live shows to the integration of a full zoo, from the celebration of Brazilian cowboy culture to the accessible pricing, this park serves its home audience while welcoming international visitors.

For travelers exploring Brazil's southern coast, Beto Carrero World makes an excellent day trip or weekend destination, offering world-class entertainment at a fraction of North American prices.