International Travel in 2025: Record Growth in Africa, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with Highlights from Brazil, Vietnam, and Egypt, What You Need to Know About the Trends

Published on December 1, 2025

International travel continues to rebound in 2025, with global tourist arrivals showing an increase of 5% from the previous year. Between January and September, over 1.1 billion tourists traveled across the globe, marking a significant boost in tourism despite economic challenges. Notable growth was seen in Africa, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with countries like Brazil, Vietnam, and Egypt leading the charge. This increase in international arrivals signals not only a recovery in the global tourism sector but also highlights the resilience of travelers amidst geopolitical uncertainties and inflationary pressures. While North America and the Middle East showed mixed performance, the steady growth in sub-Saharan Africa and Eastern Europe points to the evolving dynamics of global tourism trends.

Global Tourism Trends and Key Regions in 2025

Africa’s Leading Growth

Africa has emerged as the top performer in 2025, with an impressive 10% increase in international arrivals by the end of September. North Africa recorded a 11% rise, while Sub-Saharan Africa posted a 10% growth. These regions have become increasingly popular for tourists, offering unique cultural experiences, adventure tourism, and scenic landscapes. From the Egyptian pyramids to Ethiopia’s historical sites, the continent is experiencing a tourism boom like never before. The surge in interest is also being reflected in growing investments in infrastructure, making it an even more attractive destination for future travelers.

Europe Continues to Dominate

As the world’s most visited region, Europe welcomed 625 million international tourists in the first three quarters of 2025, a 4% increase from the same period in 2024. Western Europe, particularly countries like France and Spain, saw robust growth, while Southern Mediterranean Europe experienced a 3% increase. However, Northern Europe experienced a slight 1% decline, with Scandinavia and other northern regions facing a dip in tourism. Eastern Europe, however, is on the rise with an 8% increase, signaling a strong recovery as these destinations become more accessible and popular.

Americas Show Mixed Performance

The Americas recorded a 2% growth in international arrivals in 2025. Despite early gains in the year (+3% in Q1 and Q2), the third quarter showed a 1% decline, which was influenced by decreased travel demand in North America. The Caribbean, Central America, and South America showed a varied performance, with South America leading the pack at 9% growth, reflecting the rising interest in countries like Brazil, Chile, and Peru. This region has benefitted from a vibrant tourism landscape, with many travelers seeking new adventures beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

Asia-Pacific’s Recovery Continues

In Asia-Pacific, international arrivals have risen by 8%, recovering 90% of the volumes seen in 2019. Northeast Asia, in particular, has outperformed expectations with a 17% increase, driven by China, Japan, and South Korea. However, overall arrivals in Southeast Asia and other parts of South Asia remain slightly below pre-pandemic levels. Countries such as Vietnam and Thailand are witnessing a significant rebound, attracting travelers keen to explore their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant city life.

Strong Demand for Air Travel and Hotel Stays

The growth in international air travel has also mirrored this trend. Global air traffic grew by 7% from January to September 2025, and hotel occupancy rates reached 68% in September, matching the figures from the previous year. IATA and STR data confirm that the travel industry is witnessing resilient demand, with airlines and hotels seeing full bookings in peak seasons. Japan, Egypt, and Morocco have become prime destinations for both business and leisure travel, contributing significantly to global tourism revenue.

Traveler Spending Remains Robust

Visitor spending has remained strong across the globe, particularly in destinations such as Japan (+21%), Egypt (+18%), and Morocco (+15%). Tourists from large outbound markets like the United States, Spain, Germany, and South Korea are continuing to contribute to the tourism economy by increasing their travel budgets. This trend highlights the resilience of the tourism sector, even amidst higher travel costs and uncertainties in the global political climate.

What This Means for Travelers in 2025

For travelers planning their 2025 holidays, the global tourism industry is filled with exciting opportunities. Key destinations like Brazil, Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Japan offer rich cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes, all while showing significant growth in both visitor numbers and tourism revenue. Whether it’s a trip to North Africa to explore Egypt’s ancient history, or a visit to vibrant cities in Europe, the options for travelers are abundant. Those seeking value for money and exciting adventures might want to consider emerging markets in Africa and Latin America, which continue to rise in popularity.

Travel Tips for 2025

• Book early: Given the rise in tourism numbers, especially in Asia-Pacific and Europe, booking flights and accommodations early can help secure better deals.
• Consider new destinations: With Africa and South America booming, consider exploring emerging destinations for a more authentic and less crowded travel experience.
• Plan for the shoulder season: Traveling just before or after peak season can offer better prices and fewer crowds, especially in North Africa and Southern Europe.