Brazil Joins Argentina, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Jamaica, Denmark in Thrilling Wave of Tourists Arrival to US, Boosting Travel Trade, Is This the Biggest Surge Yet?

Published on September 11, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Brazil joins Argentina, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Jamaica, and Denmark in a thrilling wave of tourists arriving in the US, marking a significant boost in the travel trade. This surge has brought a noticeable increase in travelers from these countries, making it one of the most exciting times for the industry.

As these nations embrace easier travel access to the US, the tourism sector continues to flourish, driving economic growth and strengthening international connections. This influx of visitors is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in global tourism, sparking greater anticipation for future travel trends. With the travel trade expanding rapidly, the impact of this surge could redefine the landscape of tourism. Is this the biggest surge yet? Only time will tell, but the potential for growth is enormous.

Travel between Brazil and the U.S. has witnessed a remarkable surge in 2024, with significant growth in both inbound and outbound tourism. As the global travel industry rebounds post-pandemic, Brazil has become a key player in driving tourism to the U.S. This report explores the data behind this surge, including travel volume, purpose, and economic impacts. We also take a closer look at the major U.S. states and cities visited by Brazilian tourists and the top activities they engage in while visiting.

Travel Volume: A Surge in Tourism Between Brazil and the U.S.

In 2024, the travel volume between Brazil and the U.S. shows significant growth, reflecting the post-pandemic recovery in international travel. Brazilian visitors to the U.S. have increased by 17.6% compared to 2023, with 1.91 million Brazilians expected to visit. This sharp rise follows a drastic drop in travel numbers in 2020 due to the pandemic. The recovery is clear, as 2023 saw 1.62 million Brazilian visitors, up by 32.6% compared to 2022.

On the other hand, U.S. outbound travel to Brazil is also on the rise. With 617,000 Americans expected to travel to Brazil in 2024, the U.S. outbound tourism to Brazil has grown by 38.3%. The increase in outbound travel highlights Brazil’s appeal as a travel destination for Americans. The increase in U.S. tourism to Brazil shows a robust demand for international travel, with Brazil becoming an important global tourism hub.

Top Ports of Entry for Brazilian Tourists to the U.S.

Miami, Florida, remains the most popular entry point for Brazilian tourists to the U.S., accounting for nearly 584,000 visitors in 2024. The city’s vibrant culture, accessibility, and connection to South America make it a primary destination. Following Miami, Orlando (337,000), New York (234,000), Fort Lauderdale (139,000), and Atlanta (100,000) are the top U.S. cities that Brazilian tourists are flocking to in 2024. This regional breakdown shows that Florida continues to be the gateway to the U.S. for many Brazilian travelers, primarily due to its warm climate and numerous leisure attractions.

Purpose of Trip: Vacation Dominates Brazilian Travel to the U.S.

A closer look at the reasons why Brazilians travel to the U.S. reveals that vacation and holiday purposes are by far the most dominant. About 68.0% of Brazilian visitors come to the U.S. for leisure. This statistic underscores the U.S. as a prime destination for those looking to enjoy a wide range of experiences, from shopping and sightseeing to visiting amusement parks and national landmarks.

Visiting friends and relatives also remains a significant reason for Brazilian tourists coming to the U.S. About 15.2% of visitors from Brazil travel to reconnect with family and friends. Furthermore, business-related travel accounts for 6.7% of Brazilian visits to the U.S. This data indicates that while the U.S. is a popular destination for leisure travelers, it is also a hub for family reunions and business engagements.

First-time U.S. Visitors: A Look at the Numbers

Interestingly, only 17.2% of Brazilian visitors to the U.S. in 2024 are making their first trip. This indicates that a majority (82.8%) of Brazilians traveling to the U.S. have visited the country before, highlighting a strong repeat visitation trend. The U.S. has long been a favourite among Brazilian tourists, with many choosing to return for subsequent visits to explore new destinations or revisit old favourites.

Types of Accommodation and Length of Stay

Brazilian visitors to the U.S. tend to stay in hotels and motels, with 77.4% of travelers opting for these accommodations. Private homes are the second most common choice, with 33.5% of visitors staying in private residences. The average length of stay for Brazilian tourists is 16.4 nights, reflecting the relatively extended nature of many leisure trips.

These long stays indicate that Brazilian travelers are likely to explore multiple cities and attractions across the U.S. during their visit, making it crucial for U.S. tourism agencies to provide a diverse range of experiences to meet these travelers’ needs.

Top U.S. States and Cities Visited by Brazilian Tourists

Brazilian tourists are drawn to a number of U.S. states, with Florida dominating the list. In 2024, 58.5% of Brazilian visitors are expected to visit Florida, making it the top destination for travelers from Brazil. The attractions of Florida, including its world-renowned beaches, theme parks like Disney World, and its proximity to South America, make it a prime choice for Brazilian tourists.

New York comes in second, with 20.5% of Brazilian visitors planning to travel there. The city’s cultural landmarks, shopping districts, and iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square continue to attract tourists from around the world, including Brazil. Other popular states for Brazilian tourists include California (9.7%), Nevada (5.2%), and Texas (4.1%).

In terms of metropolitan areas, Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL MSA leads with 43.5% of Brazilian visitors. This is followed by Miami, which sees 26.7% of Brazilian visitors. New York’s metropolitan area is also a major draw, with 20.7% of Brazilian tourists heading to the Big Apple. These MSAs showcase the regional preferences of Brazilian tourists and their affinity for large, iconic cities.

Top Leisure Activities Engaged by Brazilian Visitors

When it comes to leisure activities, Brazilian tourists in the U.S. are passionate about shopping. A staggering 85.3% of Brazilian visitors engage in shopping, making it by far the most popular activity. Shopping in U.S. cities offers an experience that combines high-end luxury with a variety of outlets, making it a unique destination for Brazilian shoppers.

Sightseeing follows closely behind at 78.6%, with many Brazilians visiting major tourist attractions, historical locations, and national parks. Amusement and theme parks, particularly in Florida, attract 47.9% of Brazilian visitors, while national parks and monuments draw 34.5%. These figures highlight the strong desire of Brazilian tourists to engage in both urban and natural sightseeing during their travels.

Transportation Trends Among Brazilian Tourists

Brazilian visitors to the U.S. are diverse in their transportation choices. Auto travel, whether through private vehicles or rentals, is the most popular mode of transport, with 43.6% of visitors using this option. This is followed by 42.3% who rent cars, making the U.S. a prime destination for road trips and local exploration.

Air travel between U.S. cities is another popular option, with 32.7% of Brazilian tourists using this method. This points to a growing trend of domestic travel within the U.S., with Brazilian visitors exploring various states during their stay. Public transportation, such as city subways and trams, is used by 21.7% of Brazilian visitors, and ride-sharing services like Uber are used by 17.4%.

Economic Impact: Brazil’s Growing Contribution to U.S. Travel Industry

Brazil’s economic contribution to the U.S. travel industry in 2024 is considerable. Travel exports from Brazil, which include international airfares, amount to $9.8 billion. This substantial figure underscores the growing importance of Brazilian tourism for the U.S. economy.

Brazil’s travel imports, which include the spending of Brazilian tourists in the U.S., total $1.28 billion. The travel trade balance stands at $8.56 billion, a positive number that highlights the U.S. as a major beneficiary of Brazilian tourism. This balance is indicative of the U.S. travel industry’s importance in attracting international visitors.

In terms of employment, Brazilian tourists help support approximately 64,100 jobs in the U.S. travel sector. Each million dollars in travel exports supports seven jobs, highlighting the significant employment impact that tourism from Brazil has on the U.S. economy.

Tourism is an ever-evolving industry, and the relationship between Brazil and the United States plays a significant role in this global movement. In 2024, both countries experienced substantial increases in visitor arrivals, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025, despite certain challenges. This article delves into the numbers, trends, and factors driving tourism from Brazil to the U.S., as well as Brazil’s growing status as a top tourist destination.

Brazilian Tourist Arrivals to the U.S. in 2024: A Surge in Numbers

In 2024, Brazilian tourists significantly contributed to the U.S. tourism sector. Approximately 1.35 million Brazilians visited the United States, marking an increase of about 20% compared to the previous year. This surge can be attributed to several factors, including the post-pandemic recovery in global travel, improved accessibility, and the continued allure of American cities and attractions.

The U.S. remains a top destination for Brazilian tourists due to the variety of experiences it offers. From the bustling streets of New York to the beaches of California and the entertainment hubs of Florida, Brazil’s tourism to the U.S. covers a wide range of interests, making it an attractive destination for travellers of all kinds.

Key U.S. Entry Points for Brazilian Tourists

Miami has long been the primary entry point for Brazilian tourists visiting the United States. In 2024, Miami continued to dominate, drawing in a significant portion of the Brazilian travel market. The city’s vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and proximity to South America make it an easy and attractive option for Brazilian visitors.

Other popular U.S. cities that draw Brazilian tourists include Orlando, New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. Orlando is particularly appealing due to its world-renowned theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, making it a family-friendly destination. New York attracts tourists with its iconic landmarks, including Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Meanwhile, Los Angeles remains a top spot for entertainment enthusiasts, and Las Vegas continues to lure tourists with its extravagant resorts and nightlife.

A Decline in Brazilian Visitors to the U.S. in Early 2025

While 2024 saw a strong performance in Brazilian arrivals to the U.S., early 2025 data shows a decline. By February 2025, the number of Brazilian visitors to the U.S. had fallen to approximately 145,000, compared to 133,000 the previous year. This decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased visa fees, stricter immigration policies, and economic factors like fluctuating exchange rates.

One of the key reasons for the decline is the introduction of a $250 “visa integrity fee,” which has raised the total cost of obtaining a U.S. visa. This increase in cost may have deterred some potential Brazilian visitors. Additionally, tighter immigration policies at U.S. borders and concerns about visa processing times could be contributing to the reduction in tourist arrivals. Economic instability and exchange rate fluctuations also play a role, making international travel less affordable for some.

Brazil’s Thriving Tourism Sector in 2024

Brazil itself has seen remarkable growth in its tourism sector, with 6.65 million international visitors in 2024, a 12.6% increase from the previous year. The country’s diverse cultural offerings, stunning natural beauty, and growing infrastructure continue to attract tourists from around the world. Brazil is home to world-famous beaches, the Amazon rainforest, and vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, which remain major draws for international travellers.

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Brazil’s hospitality sector has benefitted from significant investments in infrastructure and services. These improvements have made Brazil a more accessible and welcoming destination for foreign tourists. Brazil’s government has also been actively promoting the country as a top travel destination, running global marketing campaigns to boost its tourism numbers.

Brazil’s Impressive Tourism Growth in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, Brazil’s tourism industry continues to show strong growth. By May 2025, Brazil had already welcomed 4.8 million international visitors, reflecting a 49.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This upward trend is expected to continue as Brazil attracts more tourists with its diverse offerings.

Brazil’s success in the tourism sector can be attributed to its emphasis on expanding its travel options. The country is increasingly promoting niche markets like ecotourism, cultural tourism, and luxury travel, attracting a broader range of visitors. The growth of Brazil’s international events, such as festivals, conferences, and sports events, has also helped raise the country’s profile as a global tourist hub.

Comparing Tourism from Brazil to the U.S. and Brazil’s Tourism Growth

It is interesting to note the contrasting trends in tourism between Brazil and the U.S. While the U.S. experienced a surge in Brazilian visitors in 2024, the figures for early 2025 show a decline. In contrast, Brazil’s tourism sector is thriving, with impressive year-on-year growth. The following table illustrates the contrasting trends:

This table highlights Brazil’s growing role in global tourism, as well as the fluctuating nature of travel trends. Despite the decline in Brazilian visitors to the U.S. in early 2025, Brazil remains a key player in the global tourism landscape, both as a destination and a source of travellers.

Factors Influencing Travel Between Brazil and the U.S.

Several factors play a role in shaping tourism patterns between Brazil and the U.S. One of the most significant factors is the visa process. The cost of obtaining a U.S. visa has increased, particularly for Brazilian visitors, due to the introduction of a new $250 visa fee. This added expense, coupled with the overall visa application process, can deter some potential travellers.

Immigration policies are another factor influencing travel. The U.S. has implemented stricter border control measures, which may contribute to the decrease in Brazilian visitors. The increased scrutiny at U.S. airports and the tightening of visa regulations may make travel more difficult for Brazilian tourists, leading to a drop in arrivals.

On the other hand, Brazil’s growing tourism sector can be attributed to its expanding infrastructure, increased promotion of diverse tourism experiences, and government efforts to attract more international visitors. With the rise of ecotourism, cultural tourism, and luxury travel, Brazil is positioning itself as a versatile and appealing destination for a wide variety of tourists.

The Future of Brazil–U.S. Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges

Looking ahead, there are both opportunities and challenges for the tourism relationship between Brazil and the U.S. For the U.S., attracting more Brazilian visitors requires addressing the barriers created by visa fee increases and stricter immigration policies. Streamlining the visa process and reducing costs could help bolster Brazilian tourism to the U.S., while improving marketing strategies can encourage more repeat visits from previous travellers.

For Brazil, the key to sustaining its growth in international tourism lies in maintaining its appeal to a broad range of visitors. Continuing to invest in infrastructure, promoting the country’s diverse tourism offerings, and highlighting new destinations will be essential. Brazil must also address any challenges related to political instability, exchange rate fluctuations, and other economic factors that could impact travel.

Conclusion

Tourism between Brazil and the U.S. is a vital part of both countries’ economies, with Brazil continuing to be an essential source of visitors to the U.S. While early 2025 data shows a decline in Brazilian arrivals, 2024 was a year of significant growth. Brazil’s tourism sector is thriving, with millions of international visitors flocking to the country for its unique attractions. Moving forward, both countries will need to address challenges such as visa costs and immigration policies, while seizing opportunities to enhance their tourism offerings and strengthen their relationship in the travel industry.

The travel relationship between Brazil and the U.S. in 2024 is robust and growing. Brazilian visitors are flocking to the U.S. for leisure, business, and family reunions, driving significant economic impact in key U.S. cities. Florida remains the top destination, but other cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas are also drawing large numbers of Brazilian tourists. As travel continues to increase, it’s clear that Brazil plays an important role in the ongoing recovery of the global tourism industry. With a growing interest in shopping, sightseeing, and theme parks, the U.S. continues to be a prime destination for Brazilian tourists looking for diverse experiences. The positive economic impacts, including job creation and increased exports, demonstrate the significant value of this travel relationship for both countries.