Brazil is experiencing a record-breaking year for international tourism, with foreign visitors injecting US$4.9 billion into the economy between January and July 2025, according to the Central Bank. The figure marks a 13% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when revenues reached US$4.32 billion.
In July 2025 alone, international visitors brought in US$696.4 million, up 13.3% year-on-year compared to the US$614.7 million recorded in July 2024.
Embratur Celebrates Historic Momentum
According to Marcelo Freixo, President of Embratur, the consistent rise in tourism revenue highlights the sector’s growing contribution to Brazil’s economy:
“Month after month, we are setting records, solidifying this already historic moment for international tourism in Brazil. But it’s not just about numbers. We are witnessing the consolidation of a driving force in the Brazilian economy. This volume of revenue generated by tourism means more jobs, more income, and development for small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in this sector spread across all regions. We are reaping the rewards of Embratur’s ongoing work to reposition our country, which is being achieved through tourism that is beneficial not only for those who come to visit us, but also for those who live here,” Freixo said.
Government Confident in Hitting 10 Million Tourists
Celso Sabino, Brazil’s Minister of Tourism and President of the UN Tourism Executive Board, credited the country’s success to increased global travel, expanded air connectivity, and stronger international promotion campaigns:
“Every dollar spent by a foreign visitor translates into jobs, income, and development for different regions of the country,” Sabino stated. “We are confident that we will continue to meet all our targets, just as we did in 2024. This year, tourism continues to grow, and we are optimistic about reaching the 10 million mark of foreign tourists in the country,” he emphasised.
International Arrivals Surge Nearly 48%
From January to July 2025, Brazil welcomed almost 6 million foreign tourists, marking a 47.5% jump compared to the 4 million arrivals in the same period last year. This number represents 86% of the annual target set under the 2024-2027 National Tourism Plan, which forecasts 6.9 million international visitors in 2025.
Top Tourist Markets
- South America remains Brazil’s largest source of tourists, contributing 3.7 million visitors — mainly from Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
- The United States follows, with 465,192 American tourists arriving by July.
- Europe sent 532,242 travellers, led by France, Portugal, Germany, and the UK.
- The UK recorded 109,299 arrivals in 2025 so far — a 20.13% increase from 90,976 visitors in 2024.
São Paulo Leads, Followed by Rio and Rio Grande do Sul
Among Brazil’s gateways for international travel, São Paulo dominates, welcoming 1,582,286 foreign visitors in the first seven months of 2025. Rio de Janeiro follows closely with 1,324,515 arrivals, while Rio Grande do Sul secured third place with 1,256,132 international tourists.
