Brazil records a surge in foreign tourists in Q1 2025

Vibrant cities, natural landmarks, and a rich cultural heritage have driven unprecedented growth in Brazil's popularity among international tourists. According to fresh data from the Ministry of Tourism, the Embratur agency, and the Federal Police, the country welcomed 3.7 million visitors from January to March 2025, up 47.8% year-on-year. This is the highest figure ever recorded in quarterly statistics for foreign tourist arrivals to Brazil.

In March alone, the number of arriving foreign tourists reached 929,096, 25.5% higher than in March 2024. São Paulo led in welcoming international visitors, with 277,266 tourists, followed by Rio de Janeiro in second place with 241,812 visitors. In the south of the country, the state of Rio Grande do Sul welcomed 168,507 tourists, while the northeastern state of Bahia received 17,583.

Government officials attribute the positive trend to stronger international promotion of Brazil and the development of tourism infrastructure. Embratur president Marcelo Freixo noted that the record figures reflect the country's appeal as a culturally rich and sustainable tourist destination. "We are now witnessing a historic breakthrough in international tourism to Brazil. Record tourist flows directly drive economic growth, the development of the tourism market, job creation, and higher incomes for the population," Freixo stressed.

Tourism Minister Celso Sabino noted that this success is the result of effective cooperation between government bodies, businesses, and international partners. "We aim to maintain the current pace and cement Brazil's status as one of the world's leading tourist destinations," the minister said.

Argentina remains the main source of growth in tourist arrivals to Brazil. In March 2025 alone, the country welcomed 395,149 Argentine visitors, up 76.7% compared with March of the previous year. The number of tourists from Europe also rose significantly: travellers from France, Portugal, Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain drove an 88.3% increase in European tourism over the first quarter.

Brazil's visa policy provides an additional incentive for tourists. For example, citizens of the Russian Federation can stay in the country visa-free for up to 90 days, which simplifies travel and increases the destination's appeal.

Brazil's National Tourism Development Plan aims to reach 8.1 million foreign tourists annually by 2027, which would make the country the most visited destination in South America. The plan includes 20 sector programmes and initiatives, including a Tourism Climate Change Adaptation Plan aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals through 2030.

"We are successfully overcoming challenges and making Brazil increasingly attractive to discerning international tourists. Our task is to meet the targets set for 2027, attracting millions of tourists, creating jobs, and strengthening regional economies," Minister Sabino stressed.

Brazil's achievements in the first quarter of 2025 clearly demonstrate the dynamic development of the tourism sector, driven by sound strategic planning, international promotion, and growing demand for high-quality travel experiences. With such ambitious plans, Brazil is confidently becoming the leading tourism hub of South America, offering unique and sustainable experiences to visitors from around the world.