British tourists to Brazil rise 20% to top 100,000 in first half of year

British tourists to Brazil topped the 100,000 mark in the first half of the year, according to latest official figures.

 

The increase in the first seven months of the year was up more than 20% to 109,299 against 90,976 from the UK for the same period in 2024, international tourism statistics show.

 

The country’s Embratur tourist office reported a 47.5% year-on-year surge in total inbound travel to almost six million foreign travellers.

 

Numbers in July alone were up by almost 42% to 620,143, reflecting the country’s international promotional efforts.

 

Embratur president Marcelo Freixo said: "Brazil today enchants the world, and this is not only good news for tourism; it is a victory for our people. 

 

“Reaching nearly six million international tourists in just seven months is a direct result of the work we have done at Embratur to promote our destinations with strategy, integrity, and passion. 

 

“Every tourist who chooses Brazil boosts the economy, generates jobs, stimulates local commerce, strengthens culture, and creates new business opportunities across the country. 

 

"This growth is not by chance: it is the result of a public policy that understands tourism as a driver of development, inclusion and appreciation of our diversity.”

 

Tourism minister Celso Sabino hailed the “historic achievement that shows that Brazil has returned to prominence on the international stage”. 

 

He added: “This means more jobs, more income, and more opportunities for our people. The world is rediscovering Brazil, and we are prepared to welcome even more visitors.” 

 

Europe contributed 532,242 tourists to Brazil and the US 465,192.

 

The majority - 3.7 million - came from other South American countries,  notably Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay. 

 

Sao Paulo was the main gateway for international tourism to Brazil followed by Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul.