“This is Brazil!” (As Dom said in Fast Five)
And what a brilliant country it is, which you’re about to learn all about! From how to navigate this magnificent country, to when you should partner up with a Brazil tour guide, it’s all here.
Let’s start with some facts about tourism in Brazil! Did you know that Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world by geographical area? That means there’s diversity, variety and a lot to see and do!
60% of the Amazon lies in Brazil, too, which is an incredible draw for travelers, but what are some other reasons why you should travel to Brazil?
Overview of Brazil's Tourism Industry
While Brazil might not see tourist numbers like some other countries, the economic impact of tourism in Brazil is still immense and important. In 2023, international tourism boosted the Brazilian economy by US$6.9 million!
All up, Brazil’s travel and tourism total GDP is US$104bn, with restaurants being the top tourism group by revenue (showing you just how scrumdiddlyumptious the food here is). As for what percentage of Brazil is tourism, in 2022, Brazil’s travel and tourism GDP was 7.6%.
But what is Brazil ranked in tourism? Going by number of tourists, for 2023, Brazil sits at 37th in the world.
So, how many tourists visit Brazil each year? Well, tourism in Brazil is a huge industry for the country and, like everywhere else, it was hit hard by the pandemic. Brazil saw a 62.7% increase in tourism arrivals compared to 2022!
Here are the previous years’ inbound tourism statistics:
Of these countries, who visits Brazil the most?
In 2023, Argentina led international tourists:
- Argentina: 1,900,000
- United States: 668,500
- Chile: 458,500
- Paraguay: 424,500
- Uruguay: 334,700
Okay, so where are all these travelers going, and what is the most visited city or region in Brazil?
Well, in 2023, São Paulo recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals:
- San Paulo: 2,107,179
- Rio de Janeiro: 1,192,814
- Rio Grande do Sul: 1,000,909
Fascinating, right? Let’s end these travel statistics with some data about Brazil!
At the time of writing, Brazil has a population of 217,750,077, about 2.69% of the world’s population, making it the 7th largest country by population. The population has a median age of 33.6 years, with 88.4% of the population living in urban areas. The largest city by population is São Paulo (12,400,232), followed by Rio de Janeiro (6,747,815) and Salvador (2,711,840).
Brazil Tourism Quick Facts
- 5.9 million - The number of inbound tourists to Brazil in 2023.
- USD104 billion - Brazil’s travel and tourism total GDP in 2021.
- #81 - Brazil’s global ranking when it comes to English proficiency.
- 7.6% - Brazil’s travel and tourism GDP percentage in 2022
Top Tourist Destinations in Brazil
So what brings tourists to Brazil?
Being a destination with rainforests, savannas, wetlands and vibrant modern cities, Brazil has attractions for everyone. As for why Brazil is so famous for tourism, well, this might be due to it being home to more than half of the Amazon!
Let’s go over some top places you should add to your itinerary when planning your trip to Brazil!
- Ouro Preto and Minas Gerais: Known for its 18th-century gold rush, it features churches adorned with gold filigree. Explore the Royal Road and visit Inhotim, the world’s largest open-air contemporary art museum.
- Paraty and Saco de Mamanguá: A preserved town with colonial architecture, surrounded by mountains and ocean. Enjoy festivals, explore 65 islands and kayak through the ‘tropical fjord’.
- Amazon Rainforest: Spanning 42% of Brazil, it's a vast, biodiverse region. Visit Manaus, canoe through flooded forests and spot river dolphins in reserves.
- Brasília: Brazil’s modernist capital, designed by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer. Explore architectural gems, best navigated by car.
- Pantanal: The world’s largest wetland, ideal for wildlife spotting. Best visited in the dry season (May-September) for diverse flora and fauna.
- Fernando de Noronha: An archipelago with pristine beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life. Activities include diving, snorkeling and dolphin watching.
- Rio de Janeiro: Famous for its beaches, mountains and vibrant culture. Enjoy outdoor activities, historical sites and lively nightlife.
- São Paulo: South America’s largest city, known for its dynamic culture, theaters, world-class chefs and art scene.
- Iguazu Falls: The world’s largest waterfall system, located at the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Features 275 waterfalls, with Devil’s Throat being the largest.
Further Reading: 4 Hidden Gems to Visit in Rio de Janeiro
The Role of Festivals and Events in Boosting Tourism
Festivals in Brazil play a vital role in the country's cultural identity and social life. They reflect the nation's rich history, diverse heritage and vibrant traditions, bringing communities together in celebration. From the world-famous Carnival to local folk festivals, these events showcase Brazil's love for music, dance, and communal festivities.
Here are a few you can’t miss:
- Carnival: One of the largest and oldest festivals, primarily celebrated in Rio de Janeiro, but also in Salvador and Recife. Dating back to 1830, Carnival features colorful street parades, samba dances and vibrant street parties called blocos.
- Festival de Cachaça: Also known as Festival de Pinga, this festival in Paraty celebrates cachaça, Brazil's national liquor. It includes samba, forró and reggae performances, food trucks with local cuisine, and shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Semana Santa: Celebrated during the holy week of Easter, Semana Santa is significant in Brazil, especially in Ouro Preto. The streets are adorned with colorful carpets of flowers, sand and sawdust.
- Parintins Folklore Festival: Celebrated over three days in the Parintins region, this festival features the legendary story of the resurrected ox through folk music, dance and parades.
- Lollapalooza: Held at Autódromo de Interlagos in São Paulo, Lollapalooza is a vibrant music festival showcasing talents from around the world, including local artists.
Gastronomy Tourism: A Taste of Brazil
So, what food is Brazil famous for?
Brazil offers a rich culinary experience influenced by Portuguese colonization, African slaves, indigenous peoples and later European and Asian immigrants.
For example, did you know Brazil is home to the largest Japanese population outside of Japan, at 2.7 million?
Here's a quick guide to some must-try foods:
- Churrasco (BBQ): Southern Brazilians love BBQ, with popular cuts like picanha (rump cap) seasoned simply with coarse salt and grilled to perfection. Home barbecues include sausages, queijo coalho (cheese on a stick) and chicken hearts, while churrascarias serve a variety of meats sliced directly onto your plate.
- Moqueca: A flavorful fish stew from Bahia or Espírito Santo, cooked in a clay pot with tomatoes, onions, and coriander. The Bahia version includes palm oil and coconut milk, while the Espírito Santo version uses annatto seeds for color. Served with rice, farofa (toasted manioc flour) and pirão (a spicy fish porridge).
- Cachaça: Brazil's traditional spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice, key in the famous caipirinha cocktail. High-quality aged varieties are also available.
- Brigadeiros: Sweet chocolate truffles made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, rolled in chocolate sprinkles. A favorite at children's parties.
- Pão de Queijo: Cheesy bread rolls, crispy outside and chewy inside, made with tapioca flour and Minas cheese. Often served as snacks or with fillings.
- Quindim: A sweet treat from Bahia made with eggs, sugar, and coconut, baked to form a custard top and toasted coconut base.
- Açaí: A superfood from the Amazon, enjoyed as a frozen sorbet topped with granola and banana or in juices. Available in cafés and supermarkets.
- Fried Bar Snacks: Popular with beer, these include pastéis (crispy pastry parcels), manioc batons and bolinhos (salt cod balls). Coxinha (chicken and potato croquettes) is also a favorite.
- Empadão: A savory pie with a flaky crust, typically filled with chicken and vegetables or sometimes beef or shrimp, enjoyed during family gatherings and holidays.
Further Reading: Top 7 Most Popular Foods in Rio de Janeiro
Some things to note before you arrive:
In Brazil, food preferences vary by region: Southerners tend to enjoy churrascos (BBQs), while Northerners prefer seafood and spicy dishes. Buffets and pay-per-kilo (pay-by-the-pound) restaurants are popular nationwide, so it's wise to practice self-control. Keep in mind that lunch is the main meal of the day, typically consisting of rice, beans, french fries, a small salad, a piece of meat or fish and farofa.
Best Time to Visit Brazil: Seasonal Guide
Brazil's climate varies greatly across its vast territory, offering a range of experiences for travelers.
Here are some points to know before you go!
- Climatic Regions: Brazil features equatorial, tropical, semi-arid, highland tropical, temperate and subtropical climates.
- Temperature: The average temperature is around 25°C, with significant differences between day and night temperatures.
- Tropical Climate: 90% of Brazil lies within the tropics, resulting in hot, humid conditions with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Regions
Amazon (Northern Brazil):
- Climate: Equatorial, very humid and hot.
- Rainfall: Extremely high, especially from January to May.
- Belem: Wettest city in Brazil, with frequent torrential downpours.
Northeast Brazil:
- Climate: Semi-arid, contrasting sharply with the Amazon.
- Conditions: Scant rainfall, frequent droughts and high temperatures (up to 38°C).
Central Brazil:
- Climate: Tropical savanna, with a mix of dry/cold and humid/warm seasons.
- Brasília: The capital city has an average annual temperature is 21°C, with July being the coolest month (25°C) and September the warmest (28°C).
Southern Brazil:
- Climate: Temperate, cooler than the north, with frost and occasional snowfall at higher altitudes.
- Rio de Janeiro: Tropical, moderated by the Atlantic Ocean.
- Temperatures: Average minimum of 20°C, maximum of 26°C. Peaks above 30°C are common.
- Rainfall: Average annual precipitation of 1,086mm, with a wet season from November to April.
So, when is the best time to visit Brazil?
Coastal areas enjoy warm weather year-round. Even in winter (June to September), temperatures stay above 25°C (77°F), making them great times to visit, however, there's a rainy season from October to January, starting earlier in Salvador and Recife.
The dry season in Manaus and the central Amazon runs from July to October, ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather at watering holes. This period is also best for visiting the Pantanal. For fewer crowds and lower prices, visit during the Brazilian winter (June to September). This is especially appealing if you're not looking to escape the North American winter.
Further Reading: How Many Days Do You Need to Fully Enjoy Your Trip to Rio de Janeiro?
Getting Around Brazil: Transportation Tips and Options
Exploring Brazil, a vast country with diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, is made accessible through a variety of transportation options. From efficient air travel connecting major hubs to extensive bus networks and convenient urban metro systems, tourists can navigate this dynamic country with ease.
Getting Around Brazil
By Air
Due to Brazil's size, air travel is the most effective way to get around. Main carriers include Azul, Gol, and LATAM, with hubs in São Paulo (GRU), Rio de Janeiro (GIG), Porto Alegre (POA), Curitiba (CWB), Brasília (BSB), Salvador (SSA), Recife (REC) and Fortaleza (FOR).
By Bus
Brazil has an extensive bus network linking all major cities, making it an inexpensive way to travel. Just keep in mind that distances can be vast, like the 1,700 miles from Fortaleza to Rio de Janeiro. Road distances from Rio to other cities include São Paulo (266 miles) and Brasília (711 miles).
By Car
Car rentals are available from companies like Avis and Hertz, but a valid British or European driving license is required. While the main highways are good, driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and potential safety concerns, such as from hijackers.
By Train
Brazil's passenger rail network is limited, with only 17,500 miles of track. Scenic routes, like those in the Pantanal, are available, but trains are generally not a viable option for long-distance travel.
By Ship
Cruising along the Brazilian coast is popular, with ports in Rio, Manaus, Belém, Fortaleza, Recife, Salvador and Vitória. Seasonal cruises to Uruguay, Argentina and Chile are also available.
Getting Around Cities
Car Rentals and Taxis
Renting a car is often unnecessary in cities, and taxis and Ubers are more convenient and safer. Taxis are affordable, starting at 6-8 BRL, with apps like 99 ensuring licensed rides.
City Buses
City buses are plentiful but can be confusing for tourists due to circular routes. Fares are low, but be cautious of pickpockets.
Metro
Cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have modern metro systems, with fares around 5 BRL per ticket. Multi-day metro cards are also available to help you save money. The metro is a reliable and efficient way to get around urban areas.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Brazil
Brazil is a top destination for travelers, but to make the most of your visit, it's important to understand some key dos and don'ts. These tips will help you navigate Brazilian customs, stay safe and fully enjoy your experience in this diverse and beautiful country.
Dos:
- Learn Some Portuguese: English is not widely spoken, and don’t confuse Portuguese with Spanish.
- Use Polite Refusal: Say ‘no’ at least three times to be understood.
- Be Warm and Friendly: Greet with a firm handshake, hug or kiss on the cheek. Oh, and maintain eye contact.
- Mind Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your things, especially on the beach or in restaurants. Keep passport copies and an extra card in your luggage.
Don'ts:
- Avoid Flashing Valuables: Keep money, cameras, and valuables hidden on buses to avoid theft.
- Avoid Using High-Denomination Bills: Use small bills, as many vendors may not have change for high-volume bills.
- Avoid Political Discussions: Talking about politics can lead to heated arguments.
- Don't Drink Tap Water: Stick to bottled water.
Travel Q&A: Are tourists targeted in Brazil?
Tourists in Brazil should try to avoid making themselves easy targets for pickpocketing. Avoid flashy items, protect your phone and camera, and blend in with local attire. While Brazil has a high rate of violent crime, tourists are rarely targeted. Stay vigilant, especially during big festivals like Carnival and in non-touristic areas.
The Future of Tourism in Brazil: Projections and Predictions
Sustainable Tourism Practices in Brazil
Brazil's Travel & Tourism industry is embracing sustainable practices, attracting visitors to its stunning natural landscapes like the Amazon rainforest and the Atlantic coast. This shift towards ecotourism is not only preserving the environment, but also improving the travel experience.
Market Growth
The Travel & Tourism market in Brazil is, excitingly, on a significant growth trajectory. By 2025, revenue is expected to reach an impressive US$17.72bn. Looking ahead, the market is projected to grow annually by 3.62%, reaching a market volume of US$20.43bn by 2029. This robust growth highlights the increasing appeal of Brazil as a top travel destination!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about Brazil tourism statistics and the tourism industry in Brazil.
If it’s got you excited about exploring everything the amazing country has to offer, why not check out how you can customize your trip with a private tour guide?
