Northeast Brazil sees tourism boom with increased air routes

Northeast Brazil is experiencing a significant boom in foreign tourism, driven by enhanced air connectivity and the region's rich cultural and natural attractions. The area, home to popular destinations like Salvador de Bahia, Fortaleza, and Recife, has set new records for international visitors, projecting Brazil onto the global tourism map.

Bruno Reis, president of the Brazilian Agency for International Tourism Promotion (Embratur), highlighted the region's consistent growth and increasing presence in the minds of foreign travelers. The northeast, comprising nine states, welcomed a record 490,778 international tourists last year, marking a remarkable 91.24% increase between 2023 and 2025. Argentina led the way as the primary source country, contributing 170,399 visitors.

South American countries collectively accounted for 216,333 foreign arrivals in 2025, making them the second-largest group of emitters. This segment saw a 71.25% rise compared to 2024, largely fueled by tourists from Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. The positive trend has continued into 2026, with the first quarter alone registering 219,063 foreign visitors, a substantial 66.27% increase over the same period last year and triple the national average.

Reis attributed this success to a strategic approach combining international promotion, expanded air connectivity, and the valorization of Brazil's diverse experiences. A critical factor has been the dramatic increase in international air routes, which grew from 18 in 2023 to 42 in 2026, facilitating easier access for tourists. This expansion has included new routes such as Panama-Salvador and Madrid-Fortaleza, alongside the resumption of flights from Cape Verde to Recife and planned new services to São Luís.

Marina Marinho, president of the National Forum of State Secretaries and Directors of Tourism (Fornatur), noted that these developments demonstrate the growing interest from airlines in serving the region. The northeast, considered the cradle of Brazil, offers visitors stunning landscapes, historical sites, vibrant religious traditions, unique gastronomy, and lively festivals like Carnival and São João, making it an increasingly attractive destination.