Brazil joins Canada, Mexico, Spain, and Italy in sending more tourists to the U.S., with Florida, New York, and California emerging as the best places to visit. As autumn approaches, Brazilian travellers are expected to increase their numbers, following in the footsteps of other top source countries. Florida, New York, and California remain the most popular destinations for Brazilian tourists, attracting millions with their diverse offerings. Florida’s beaches, New York’s cultural landmarks, and California’s theme parks make these states a top choice. As we move into autumn, Brazilian tourists are likely to flock to these iconic places, contributing significantly to U.S. tourism. This surge in Brazilian travel highlights a growing trend of international visitors heading to these key U.S. locations. With travel volumes continuing to rise, the U.S. is set to see an influx of Brazilian visitors looking to explore the best spots this fall.
Brazilian tourism to the United States continues to thrive, with 2024 showing an upward trajectory in both visitor numbers and economic impact. In this article, we explore the key statistics, trends, and the broader economic implications of Brazilian tourism to the U.S. By breaking down travel volumes, visitor characteristics, leisure activities, and state-specific data, we gain insights into the preferences and habits of Brazilian travellers, as well as the financial benefits that their visits bring to the U.S.
In 2024, Brazilian visitors are expected to reach a significant milestone in U.S. tourism, with a sharp increase in the number of inbound travellers. The number of Brazilian visitors coming to the U.S. in 2024 is forecasted to rise by 17.6% compared to the previous year. This increase marks a steady recovery in tourism after the pandemic and suggests growing demand for U.S. travel experiences among Brazilian citizens.
While the number of Brazilian visitors to the U.S. has surged, there has been a slight decline in the number of U.S. tourists travelling to Brazil, with a 3.2% decrease in outbound travel. Despite this, the overall movement between the two countries continues to show strong recovery, bolstered by the rising interest in leisure and business travel.
Brazilian visitors to the U.S. in 2024 are coming for a variety of reasons. The primary purpose of the trip for 68% of Brazilian travellers is to enjoy a vacation or holiday. This statistic highlights the strong demand for leisure travel from Brazil, with tourists seeking to explore the U.S.’s diverse cultural, natural, and entertainment offerings.
In addition to vacations, 15.2% of visitors are coming to visit friends and relatives, while 6.7% are in the U.S. for business purposes. The data underscores the importance of family and personal connections in driving Brazilian travel to the U.S. Business tourism is also an important segment, contributing to the flow of professional exchange between the two countries.
Another interesting trend is that the majority of Brazilian visitors to the U.S. are not first-time travellers. A significant 82.8% of Brazilian visitors to the U.S. in 2024 have visited before, showing a high level of repeat tourism. This repeat visitation is a positive sign for the long-term health of U.S.-Brazil tourism relations, as it indicates that Brazilian travellers are returning to the U.S. due to positive experiences.
Brazil’s outbound tourism is experiencing a remarkable surge in 2024 and 2025, reflecting a significant shift in the country’s global mobility. With better economic conditions, increased disposable income, and the easing of travel restrictions, more Brazilians are now able to travel abroad than ever before. This article delves into the key trends shaping Brazil’s outbound tourism, exploring the economic impact, travel patterns, and destinations of choice for Brazilian travellers. It also examines the role of government initiatives and the growing number of Brazilian tourists visiting countries across Europe, North America, and other regions.
In recent years, Brazil has seen a sharp increase in outbound tourism. According to official data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the number of Brazilians travelling abroad has skyrocketed since 2023. In 2024, this trend is expected to continue with even higher numbers. The reasons for this growth are clear: economic recovery, more disposable income, and the easing of pandemic restrictions have all contributed to a rise in international travel.
The Continuous National Household Sample Survey (PNAD) by IBGE has been pivotal in tracking these shifts in travel behaviour. Data from this survey shows that Brazilian travellers are increasingly choosing to visit foreign destinations for leisure, business, and family reasons. A large number of these tourists are from middle-class families, who now have the financial freedom to explore new places.
Brazil’s growing outbound tourism sector has brought significant economic benefits to both the country and the destinations receiving Brazilian tourists. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the rise in international travel has resulted in increased foreign exchange earnings. These earnings come from various sectors, including aviation, retail, and hospitality. As more Brazilians travel abroad, they are spending more on services and goods, contributing to the global economy.
This economic boost is also visible in Brazil itself. While tourists spend money in foreign markets, their ability to travel represents increased economic freedom within Brazil. The tourism industry in Brazil has benefitted from enhanced air connectivity, government policies that have improved travel infrastructure, and targeted campaigns to promote international travel.
Brazilian tourists have shown a strong preference for destinations in Europe, North America, and nearby Latin American countries. Countries such as the United States, Portugal, Spain, and Italy have been key destinations for Brazilian visitors in recent years. This is largely due to Brazil’s historical, cultural, and linguistic ties with these countries. For example, Portugal and Spain are particularly popular due to the shared language and similar cultural roots, making them easier destinations for Brazilians.
In North America, the U.S. remains the most popular destination for Brazilian travellers. The appeal of the U.S. lies in its diverse tourism offerings, from cultural landmarks in cities like New York to leisure destinations in Florida. With a significant number of Brazilians living in the U.S., family visits are also a common reason for travel.
While traditional destinations such as the U.S. and Portugal continue to attract large numbers of Brazilian tourists, there is a growing interest in emerging markets. Many Brazilians are now looking for unique travel experiences that go beyond the typical tourist hotspots. For instance, countries in Asia and Africa are becoming more popular, as Brazilian tourists seek new adventures.
Emerging destinations include places like Japan, South Korea, Morocco, and even India. These countries offer unique cultural experiences and are increasingly accessible due to improvements in air travel and tourism infrastructure. As more Brazilians travel to these off-the-beaten-path locations, the tourism industries in these countries are also experiencing growth.
Brazil’s government has played a crucial role in promoting outbound tourism. The Ministry of Tourism has worked to improve air connectivity and streamline visa processes, making it easier for Brazilians to travel abroad. These efforts have been particularly effective in encouraging travel to key international destinations.
In addition to this, the government has also launched promotional campaigns aimed at raising awareness of international travel opportunities. These campaigns have been successful in encouraging more middle-class families to explore foreign destinations. As a result, outbound tourism from Brazil has become an important sector in the country’s broader economic strategy.
One of the biggest drivers behind the surge in outbound tourism is the improved air connectivity between Brazil and international destinations. In recent years, Brazil has seen more direct flights to major cities around the world, making it easier and more affordable for Brazilians to travel abroad.
Brazil’s major airlines, such as Gol Linhas Aéreas and LATAM, have expanded their networks, offering more flights to European and North American destinations. Low-cost carriers have also made travel more affordable for Brazilians, enabling more people to travel without breaking the bank.
A significant portion of Brazilian tourists’ spending abroad is devoted to shopping, particularly luxury goods. According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, shopping is the top leisure activity for Brazilian tourists abroad. Many Brazilian travellers visit cities like New York, Paris, and Miami specifically to shop for designer clothing, electronics, and other luxury items.
The growing middle class in Brazil has fueled this demand for luxury goods. As more Brazilians travel, they are increasingly seeking high-end shopping experiences in world-renowned cities. This trend is contributing to the growth of retail sectors in international tourist destinations, which are benefiting from the influx of Brazilian shoppers.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global tourism, including outbound tourism from Brazil. However, as travel restrictions were lifted and vaccination rates increased, Brazilian tourists began to travel abroad once more. The gradual return of international travel has been met with enthusiasm, as Brazilians are eager to explore the world after being confined to their own country for so long.
The future of Brazil’s outbound tourism sector looks very promising. As the middle class continues to grow and more Brazilians have the financial means to travel, international tourism will likely keep rising. Government initiatives to streamline travel processes and promote global tourism will support this growth. Additionally, the continued expansion of air connectivity will make it easier for Brazilians to visit a wider variety of destinations.
In the coming years, outbound tourism from Brazil is expected to continue expanding, with an increasing number of travellers choosing destinations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. With the growing interest in cultural and adventure tourism, Brazil’s outbound tourism market will become more diverse and dynamic, offering opportunities for international destinations to cater to the evolving preferences of Brazilian travellers.
Brazilian tourists tend to stay in hotels and motels during their visits to the U.S. A large 77.4% of Brazilian visitors opt for hotel or motel accommodations, reflecting the desire for comfortable and well-located lodging options. This high percentage also suggests that Brazilian tourists prefer established, well-known hotel brands for their U.S. stays. Additionally, 33.5% choose to stay in private homes, which indicates a growing preference for more homely, personalised lodging options, particularly in locations that offer a unique experience.
When it comes to transportation, Brazilian visitors mostly rely on autos, private cars, or company transportation (43.6%). This high percentage points to a preference for private, independent travel, which offers more flexibility and convenience during their U.S. visit. Rental cars are another popular choice, with 33.5% of tourists opting for this mode of transport. The use of air travel between U.S. cities is also notable, with 32.8% of Brazilian visitors choosing to fly between cities.
Brazilian tourists in 2024 are most likely to visit Florida, which tops the list with 58.5% of Brazilian visitors choosing it as their destination. Florida’s appeal lies in its vast range of attractions, from sunny beaches to world-renowned theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Studios. Miami and Orlando are two of the most popular cities within the state for Brazilian travellers.
New York follows Florida, with 20.5% of Brazilian visitors heading to the Big Apple. The city’s cultural offerings, iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, and vibrant arts scene make it an irresistible destination for international visitors. California also makes the top three, with 9.7% of Brazilian tourists visiting the state. With attractions such as Hollywood, the Napa Valley, and the stunning coastline, it’s easy to see why California remains a top choice for Brazilian travellers.
Brazilian tourists also visit a range of U.S. metropolitan areas, with Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL, being the most visited metropolitan area (MSA). A total of 43.5% of Brazilian visitors head to this region, thanks to its combination of world-famous theme parks and diverse cultural activities. Miami also attracts a significant number of Brazilian tourists, with 26.7% of visitors making it their destination.
Brazilian tourists are not only increasing U.S. tourism numbers but also contributing significantly to the U.S. economy. In 2024, Brazilian tourism is expected to generate $9.847 million in travel exports, highlighting the financial importance of Brazilian visitors. This sum includes spending on accommodation, transportation, food, and other services during their stay in the U.S.
Brazilian visitors’ economic impact is reflected in the travel trade balance, which stands at $8.566 million in 2024. This positive balance indicates that the U.S. benefits more from Brazilian tourism than it spends on welcoming Brazilian visitors. The average travel export per arrival from Brazil is estimated at $5,155, showcasing the high spending power of Brazilian tourists during their U.S. trips.
In terms of employment, Brazilian tourism helps support 64,100 U.S. jobs, both directly and indirectly. For every seven visitors from Brazil, one U.S. job is supported, underscoring the crucial role of international tourism in sustaining the U.S. economy. This jobs-to-visitors ratio further highlights the value of Brazilian tourism as an economic driver.
Shopping is the number one leisure activity for Brazilian visitors to the U.S., with 85.3% of visitors engaging in this activity during their stay. This statistic indicates that Brazilian tourists have a strong desire to shop for both luxury and everyday items while in the U.S., making them an important demographic for retailers across the country.
Sightseeing also ranks highly, with 78.6% of Brazilian visitors exploring iconic U.S. landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, New York’s Central Park, and the beaches of California. This affinity for sightseeing underscores the desire of Brazilian tourists to experience the natural and cultural beauty of the U.S.
Amusement parks are another key attraction, with 47.9% of Brazilian tourists visiting theme parks such as Disneyland and Universal Studios. These attractions are particularly popular with families, reinforcing the family-oriented nature of Brazilian tourism to the U.S.
Looking ahead, the future of Brazilian tourism to the U.S. looks promising. With the projected increase in Brazilian visitors in 2024, and a steady preference for repeat visits, the U.S. will continue to benefit from the economic impact of Brazilian tourism. Moreover, as Brazil’s middle class expands and more Brazilians gain the means to travel, the volume of inbound tourists is likely to rise further.
As Brazil strengthens its relationship with the U.S. through tourism, both countries stand to benefit economically and culturally. The U.S. will continue to be a destination of choice for Brazilian travellers seeking leisure, business, and family connections, while Brazilian visitors will enjoy the wide array of experiences that the U.S. has to offer.
Brazilian tourism to the U.S. is on the rise, with 2024 seeing an increase in travel volume, visitor spending, and economic contributions. With Florida, New York, and California standing out as top destinations, and a strong demand for shopping, sightseeing, and amusement parks, Brazilian visitors continue to be a valuable asset to the U.S. tourism industry. As the number of Brazilian tourists grows, so too does the economic impact, supporting thousands of jobs and generating millions in travel exports. The outlook for Brazilian tourism remains positive, promising further growth and opportunities for both nations in the years to come.
