Canada Set to Shatter 2019 Tourism Records in 2026 – Here’s How the Country is About to Break All the Limits

Published on November 10, 2025

Tourism in Canada is experiencing a steady recovery, with a strong influx of visitors in 2024. The country welcomed approximately 81.8 million international arrivals in 2024, including both returning Canadian residents and non-resident visitors. While this number shows significant growth, it is still not quite at the record-setting levels the country has seen in previous years. To break its tourism records in 2026, Canada will need to surpass these 2024 numbers and build on its growth trajectory by improving key areas such as overseas visitation, spending per visitor, and year-round tourism.

Canada’s Tourism Performance in 2024

Canada saw approximately 81.8 million international visitors in 2024, a strong recovery since the pandemic, but still below the pre-pandemic record set in 2019. Among these, around 23.4 million visitors came from the United States, with a notable recovery rate of about 94% compared to 2019 levels. However, international visitors from overseas markets still stood at 85% of 2019 levels, suggesting room for improvement in attracting tourists from regions outside North America.

The number of overseas arrivals reached about 6.4 million in 2024, up 5.8% from 2023. This is a positive trend, but it still represents a 15% shortfall from 2019 levels, reflecting a gap in Canada’s ability to attract visitors from Europe, Asia, and other international markets.

Key Areas for Canada to Break Record Tourism Numbers in 2026

To achieve record tourism numbers in 2026, Canada must focus on several strategic areas:

1. Exceeding 2019 Levels

Canada’s ultimate goal is to surpass 2019’s record of international arrivals. While 2024 marked a solid recovery, the country needs to achieve not just a full recovery but a significant increase in overseas visitor numbers. One way to reach this goal is to target an increase in international tourism from regions like Asia, Latin America, and Europe.

A combination of targeted marketing, streamlined visa processes, and stronger promotional efforts can help attract visitors from key international markets. For example, increasing the number of visitors from India, China, and Brazilcould help bridge the gap in overseas arrivals. As Canada continues to position itself as a world-class destination, these regions should be central to Canada’s tourism strategy.

2. Boosting Spending Per Visitor

A key factor in increasing overall tourism revenue is to boost the spending per visitor. In Q3 of 2024, overseas visitorsspent an average of US$2,053 per trip, with an average stay of 15 nights in Canada. While this is a strong figure, increasing spending per trip is essential to reaching record tourism numbers.

Canada can increase visitor spend by offering high-value luxury experiences, premium offerings, and unique, high-end travel packages. Targeting wealthy long-haul travelers and luxury tourists can drive more significant economic impact, particularly if Canada continues to promote its iconic natural beauty, cultural experiences, and eco-tourismofferings.

3. Year-Round Tourism Growth

Canada has long been known for its summer tourism peaks, particularly with international visitors flocking to destinations like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. However, the country must work to reduce seasonality by promoting winter tourism, shoulder seasons, and destinations outside the major cities.

Winter tourism is especially important, as travelers are increasingly seeking experiences like the Northern Lights, winter festivals, and snow-based adventures. By marketing off-peak seasons and highlighting Canada’s stunning winter landscapes, including destinations in the Rockies and the North, Canada can encourage year-round visitation.

In addition to winter tourism, promoting regions like Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Canada, and northern Quebeccan help spread out visitor numbers and reduce congestion in traditional tourist hotspots. This would also stimulate economic activity in less-visited regions, creating a more sustainable tourism model.

4. Improving Visa Processes and International Access

A significant barrier to record tourism numbers is Canada’s visa and entry procedures, particularly for travelers from overseas markets. To attract more international visitors, Canada should focus on simplifying visa applications and making the entry process as efficient and hassle-free as possible. Several countries in Europe and Asia have successfully streamlined their visa processes, and Canada should consider adopting similar measures to make travel easier for tourists.

Moreover, with the continued growth of global travel, Canada must invest in improving flight connectivity and international airport infrastructure to handle increasing traffic. As international demand increases, it will be crucial to ensure that airports and transportation services can accommodate this growth, especially during peak seasons.

5. Investing in Regional and Infrastructure Capacity

Canada is fortunate to have some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, but many of these destinations are located in remote or less-visited areas. To attract record numbers of tourists, Canada must ensure that tourism infrastructure in these regions is up to the task. This includes improving transport links, accommodation options, and local amenities to accommodate larger volumes of visitors.

In addition to expanding infrastructure in well-known regions, Canada should focus on sustainable development and eco-friendly tourism practices. Travelers today are looking for destinations that align with their environmental values, so promoting Canada’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism will be key to attracting higher-value tourists.

The Path Forward for Canada’s Tourism Industry

Canada’s tourism industry is on a strong upward trajectory, with the 2024 figures showing recovery and growth. However, to break tourism records in 2026, the country must take decisive steps to increase overseas visitation, boost spending per visitor, expand year-round tourism, and invest in infrastructure and accessibility. With strategic focus in these areas, Canada has the potential to set new benchmarks for global tourism in the coming years.

The global tourism industry continues to rebound post-pandemic, and Canada is well-positioned to capture a larger share of international visitors. By focusing on long-term growth, sustainability, and innovation in its tourism offerings, Canada can unlock its full potential and create a record-breaking tourism year in 2026. Whether it’s through luxury experiences, winter travel, or cultural tourism, Canada’s diverse attractions will continue to draw visitors from around the world.