We stayed at Tupiniquim twice in Feb either side of Carnaval. Unfortunately we couldnt actually book for that period because the hostel was so popular (If you want to book for next year get in asap!), but that didnt stop us spending most of Carnaval period in their bar!

The staff were amazing, especially the owner. They organised Samba shows and barbecues through carnaval, nights out in the town, boat parties, football matches - you name it really - and always for affordable prices. When no specific events were happening the small bar and courtyard area was always a great place to hang out and socialise, but they had the thoughtfulness to turn music off at 12 so you actually could sleep if you wanted, or head into town with a group if you wanted to carry on the party.

In the day time there were lots of different areas to hang out on different floors of the hostel whether you wanted to play pool, chill in a beanbag, or watch a DVD - all were catered for.

The breakfast was amazing with lots of options including fruit, fresh breads, meats, cheese, juices and hot drinks. They also had a great cook who made an awesome homemade buffet meal each night (always different) for a ridiculously cheap 4 pounds - all you can eat.

Dorms were not huge, but there were big lockable lockers under the beds to safely store all your bags and belongings which was great for piece of mind, and meant the rooms stayed reasonably tidy. The hostel itself also had big iron gates out front so you always felt secure in that respect.

The location was good.. Botafogo is a reasonably safe feeling neighbourhood (though id still always get a cab at night rather than walking round) with lots of reasonably priced street bars and restaurants, and a couple of clubs nearby. There is also a supermarket a 3 min walk from the hostel if you want to self cater, and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are between 10-20 mins bus ride away with the bus stop right next to the hostel. You can also walk to the Sugarloaf mountain in 15 mins, and Christ hovers on the hill over Botafogo!

If i was going back to Rio i would DEFINITELY stay at Tupiniquim again. Whether in a large group or alone its the best place to meet people and have an amazing time.

And if you are going for Carnaval there is no better place to be!!