Brazil Advances Tourism Strategy with New Air Links, Market Expansion and Sustainable Travel Policies

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Entering the year 2026, Brazil boasts confidence following one of the best periods of tourism in its history. The record-breaking number of international travellers, an increase in air connectivity, and a shift towards sustainable tourism have helped Brazil to regain some momentum in its efforts to grab a greater slice of the global tourism market. Rather than depending on the popular destinations of beaches and carnival, Brazil is trying to diversify its tourism approach and offer attractions like nature, culture, gastronomy, indigenous tourism, and year-round destinations. The heart of this transformation has been a set of policies initiated by the government of Brazil.

Tourism Strategy Shifts Towards Long-Term Growth

Brazil’s tourism policy is increasingly focused on sustainable expansion rather than short-term visitor numbers.

Under the national tourism strategy, the country aims to welcome 8.1 million international visitors and 150 million domestic travellers annually by 2027, supported by stronger infrastructure, environmental sustainability and improved visitor experiences. The strategy also places greater emphasis on regional development so that tourism benefits extend beyond the country’s best-known destinations.

Officials are promoting tourism as an economic driver capable of generating employment, attracting investment and supporting local communities across Brazil’s diverse regions.

International Air Connectivity Continues to Expand

One of the biggest developments for travellers is Brazil’s growing international flight network.

According to tourism authorities, international air connectivity has increased significantly in recent years, with additional routes continuing to launch throughout 2026. Expanded services from Europe and the Americas are improving access to destinations including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Fortaleza, Recife and Salvador, making Brazil more accessible for both leisure and business travellers.

Improved connectivity is expected to support continued growth in international arrivals while strengthening regional airports.

Embratur Expands Global Tourism Promotion

The Brazilian Tourist Board (Embratur) has intensified international marketing campaigns throughout 2026.

Participation in major global travel exhibitions, including FITUR, reflects a strategy built around three themes: innovation, diversity and sustainability. Rather than promoting only iconic attractions, Brazil is showcasing experiences across the Amazon, Pantanal wetlands, the northeast coastline, gastronomy, cultural heritage and community tourism.

The campaign also highlights Brazil as a year-round destination rather than one centred solely on seasonal events.

Record Visitor Numbers Build Momentum

Brazil entered 2026 after achieving record international tourism performance in 2025.

Tourism officials reported more than 9.2 million international arrivals during 2025, while early 2026 figures continued showing strong growth supported by improved air services and broader international promotion.

The country’s strongest source markets continue to include neighbouring South American countries alongside growing demand from Europe and North America.

Visa Policies Continue to Evolve

Brazil continues refining its visa framework as part of its broader tourism strategy.

The country maintains visa-free access for many nationalities while electronic visa systems are available or expanding for selected markets under updated reciprocal agreements. Tourism authorities continue balancing easier visitor access with Brazil’s long-standing principle of reciprocal visa arrangements.

Travellers are encouraged to confirm the latest visa requirements before departure, as eligibility varies according to nationality.

Sustainable Tourism Gains Greater Importance

Environmental sustainability remains central to Brazil’s tourism policy.

Authorities are promoting lower-impact tourism across destinations such as the Amazon Rainforest, the Pantanal, Lençóis Maranhenses and protected Atlantic Forest regions.

Community-based tourism, conservation projects and responsible wildlife experiences are increasingly featured within Brazil’s international tourism campaigns, supporting local economies while encouraging environmental protection.

Beyond Rio: Diversifying Brazil’s Tourism Map

While Rio de Janeiro remains one of the country’s biggest international attractions, tourism promotion increasingly includes destinations beyond the traditional circuit.

Visitors are being encouraged to discover:

• São Paulo for gastronomy, culture and business tourism.
• Foz do Iguaçu for the Iguazu Falls.
• Salvador for Afro-Brazilian heritage.
• Fortaleza and Recife for beaches and coastal tourism.
• Manaus as the gateway to the Amazon.
• Bonito for eco-tourism and freshwater diving.
• Pantanal for wildlife tourism.

This diversified approach spreads tourism benefits across more regions while encouraging longer visitor stays.

Nearby Attractions to Visit

Rio de Janeiro

• Christ the Redeemer
• Sugarloaf Mountain
• Copacabana Beach
• Ipanema Beach

São Paulo

• Ibirapuera Park
• São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
• Municipal Market

Foz do Iguaçu

• Iguazu Falls
• Itaipu Dam
• Bird Park

Salvador

• Pelourinho Historic Centre
• Elevador Lacerda
• Farol da Barra

Manaus

• Amazon Theatre
• Meeting of the Waters
• Amazon Rainforest excursions

Nearest Airports and Travel Distances

• Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG): Approximately 20 km from Copacabana.
• São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU): Approximately 25 km from central São Paulo.
• Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU): Approximately 14 km from Iguazu Falls National Park.
• Salvador International Airport (SSA): Approximately 28 km from Pelourinho.
• Manaus International Airport (MAO): Approximately 14 km from central Manaus.

Local Currency

The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

Key Stats

• International visitor target by 2027: 8.1 million
• Domestic tourism target by 2027: 150 million trips
• Record international arrivals in 2025: More than 9.2 million
• Tourism priorities:
  • Sustainable tourism
  • Air connectivity
  • International marketing
  • Regional tourism development
  • Community-based tourism

Timeline and Events

• 2025: Brazil records its highest-ever international visitor numbers.
• 2026: International flight network continues expanding.
• 2026: Embratur increases promotion across global tourism exhibitions.
• 2027: National tourism strategy targets 8.1 million international visitors and 150 million domestic trips.

FAQ

1. What are Brazil’s main tourism priorities in 2026?
Brazil is focusing on expanding international air connectivity, sustainable tourism, regional development and stronger global destination marketing.

2. Is Brazil improving international access?
Yes. Additional international air routes and expanded airline networks are improving connectivity from Europe and the Americas.

3. Which destinations are being promoted beyond Rio de Janeiro?
Authorities are highlighting São Paulo, Foz do Iguaçu, Salvador, the Amazon, Pantanal, Bonito, Fortaleza and Recife as part of a broader tourism strategy.

Dates

• 2025
• 2026
• 2027

Conclusion

The Brazilian tourism policy for 2026 shows an approach that looks past Brazil’s traditional advantages. Although Rio de Janeiro, Carnaval, and Brazil’s renowned beaches are still major tourist draws, the new policy will seek to promote better connectivity, sustainable tourism, diversification, and investment. Through increased international marketing, greater access to destinations from the Amazon to the Pantanal and northeastern coastline of Brazil, Brazil is working towards a more diverse approach to its tourism industry that will ensure future growth.