Colombia Surpasses Mexico, Chile, and Argentina in Tourism Growth to Brazil in January 2026, Driven by Regional Ties and Improved Air Connectivity, Contributing to Record-Breaking Foreign Visitor Arrivals

Published on February 26, 2026

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In January 2026, Colombia outpaced Mexico, Chile, and Argentina, leading to a remarkable 44% increase in tourism to Brazil. This surge, fueled by strengthened regional ties and improved air connectivity, contributed to over one million foreign visitors arriving in Brazil.

Brazil’s tourism industry kicked off 2026 with an impressive display of growth, welcoming 1,401,476 foreign visitors in January alone. This surge in arrivals has solidified the country’s position as a key player in the international tourism scene, despite a minor decline compared to the same period last year. According to figures released by Brazil’s national tourism and border authorities, the numbers were 46.5% higher than in January 2024, marking one of the strongest performances the country has seen in recent years.

Record-Breaking Numbers: Brazil’s January Tourism Boom

Brazil has long been recognized for its vibrant culture, captivating landscapes, and rich history, making it one of the top travel destinations in South America. January 2026 marked a significant milestone, with the country’s tourism numbers exceeding even the most optimistic projections. While the year-over-year comparison shows a slight dip compared to the peak of January 2025, the overall trend is unmistakably positive, highlighting Brazil’s sustained appeal to foreign visitors.

Brazil’s performance in January 2026 outpaced historical averages for the month, further cementing its place among the most visited countries globally. The country’s ability to attract such significant numbers reflects its ongoing efforts to enhance tourism offerings, improve infrastructure, and streamline entry processes for international travellers.

Neighboring South America Drives Brazil’s Tourism Growth

As expected, South America continues to play a pivotal role in Brazil’s inbound tourism. The neighbouring countries of Colombia, Mexico, and Chile made up a significant portion of the foreign visitor count in January 2026. Colombia, in particular, posted a remarkable 44% growth in arrivals, while Mexico and Chile followed with increases of 27% and 9%, respectively. These numbers highlight the robust cross-border travel patterns within South America, where regional dynamics drive substantial tourism exchanges.

The increasing inflow of travellers from Colombia, Mexico, and Chile showcases the continued strength of regional tourism in Latin America. As these countries experience growing economies and stronger middle-class populations, they are becoming increasingly important markets for Brazil’s tourism sector. Regional airlines, expanded transportation options, and close cultural and geographical ties have also contributed to the rise in visits from these countries.

Argentina: A Mixed Performance in Brazilian Tourism

Argentina, historically one of Brazil’s largest outbound tourism partners, presented a mixed performance in January 2026. Despite challenges, air arrivals from Argentina showed notable growth, increasing by 36%. In total, 310,000 Argentine visitors were recorded in Brazil, up from 228,000 in January 2024. The uptick in Argentine tourists underscores the continued popularity of Brazil as a holiday destination for its southern neighbour, driven by shared cultural ties, familial connections, and accessible air routes.

Although the numbers reflect growth, challenges in the Argentine economy and currency fluctuations continue to impact the overall volume of international travel from the country. Nonetheless, Brazil remains a prime destination for Argentine tourists, thanks to its proximity, diverse offerings, and favourable exchange rates.

China’s Dynamic Performance: A 75% Surge in Visitor Numbers

Among the long-haul markets, China delivered one of the most dynamic performances in January 2026, with a staggering 75% increase in visitor numbers year on year. Chinese arrivals rose from 5,000 in January 2025 to 8,700 in January 2026, highlighting Brazil’s growing appeal to Chinese tourists. This surge can be attributed to a combination of strategic promotional efforts in Asia, strengthened air connectivity, and new facilitation measures aimed at making it easier for Chinese travellers to visit Brazil.

The Brazilian government, under the leadership of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has taken significant steps to foster tourism from China. These efforts include the recent announcement of a visa exemption for Chinese nationals, making it easier for them to enter Brazil for short stays. Such initiatives align with Brazil’s broader strategy to position itself as a leading destination for Chinese tourists, capitalizing on China’s booming middle class and increasing desire to explore international destinations.

Brazil’s Strategic Tourism Initiatives Fueling Growth

The success of Brazil’s tourism in January 2026 is not solely due to natural factors or the country’s inherent appeal but also the result of proactive efforts by Brazilian authorities to boost international arrivals. In recent years, Brazil has invested heavily in tourism promotion campaigns, focusing on key international markets and showcasing the country’s vast array of attractions, from its world-famous beaches and rainforests to its vibrant cities and cultural festivals.

Furthermore, Brazil’s commitment to improving air connectivity and facilitating smoother entry processes has played a pivotal role in attracting foreign visitors. With the expansion of direct flights from key international hubs, including China, the country has made it easier for travellers to access its diverse regions, from the Amazon rainforest to the southern wine-producing regions.

Conclusion: Brazil on Track for a Banner Year in Tourism

Brazil’s impressive start to 2026, with a significant increase in foreign visitors during January, signals a positive year ahead for the country’s tourism sector. Despite some minor challenges in specific markets, Brazil continues to outperform historical averages and attract a wide range of international travellers. With neighbouring South American nations leading the charge and China showing strong potential, Brazil’s tourism industry is poised for continued growth in the coming months.

The surge in Chinese arrivals, coupled with the strong performance from Latin American markets, reflects Brazil’s strategic investments in tourism promotion and infrastructure improvements. As Brazil capitalizes on its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and new facilitation measures, it remains an attractive destination for international visitors. With ongoing efforts to streamline entry processes, strengthen regional partnerships, and expand air routes, Brazil is well-positioned to maintain its place as one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations.