Brazil's 'Money Tree'

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Tourism Competitiveness Report, Brazil ranks third globally in terms of natural potential. The leading real estate collaboration platform MIPIM World Blog commented that the country has favorable conditions to become a sustainable tourism powerhouse.

Cristalino Ecological Reserve, Brazil. (Source: Planeta Exo)

Ecotourism paradise

Brazil is considered the world's top ecotourism destination, with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In 2023, Forbes ranked Brazil number one in its ecotourism index, scoring 94.9 out of 100. The ranking is based on criteria such as biodiversity, number of natural heritage sites, CO2 emissions, and air quality.

Of the 50 countries studied, Brazil has the richest ecosystem, with more than 43,000 species of plants and animals. In particular, the Amazon reserve - one of the country's eight natural world heritage sites - plays an important role in protecting endangered species such as the Amazon manatee and the American black crocodile.

Director of DMC Viare Travel Polyana de Oliveira said that Brazil is an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. In the Amazon, tourists cannot explore freely but need a tour guide who is knowledgeable about the terrain and ecosystem. “There are canyons and rivers that tourists only know about when we tell them about them. They are overwhelmed by the majestic landscape, as beautiful as natural graphics,” Ms. Oliveira shared.

Amazon rainforest tours led by local guides. (Photo: João Paulo Krajewski)

Billion Dollar Market

Ecotourism in Brazil is booming as travelers head to the Amazon, the Atlantic coast and other natural destinations for sustainable travel experiences. They are eager to explore the South American country’s pristine landscapes, diverse ecosystems and vibrant culture.

In addition, the trend of sustainable tourism is increasingly gaining attention, with many tourists prioritizing environmentally friendly accommodation and activities. This not only contributes to protecting nature but also brings significant revenue to the Brazilian tourism industry, especially ecotourism.

This type of tourism plays a major role in the Brazilian economy, accounting for 8% of the country’s GDP. In 2023, Brazil accounted for 4.3% of the global ecotourism market, with revenues reaching $10.1 billion. According to Grand View Research, the sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.6% from 2024 to 2030, reaching more than $29.5 billion by the end of the decade, making Brazil the market leader in South America.

Not only does it generate significant revenue, ecotourism also plays an important role in nature conservation. According to WWF, this model promotes sustainable economic development for local communities, while also reducing deforestation by providing an alternative source of income to resource exploitation activities.

Ecotourism activities in Bonito, Brazil. (Source: Greeninitiative)

The future is wide open

As awareness of the importance of the environment increases, many tourists' travel choices are also based on more sustainable and nature-friendly criteria.

In line with this trend, Brazil has been promoting sustainability initiatives, focusing on environmental protection and ending deforestation to reduce the impact of climate change, while building its image as a green tourism destination. Eco-friendly tourism activities, conservation efforts, and community-based tourism models have received positive feedback from visitors.

In addition, Brazil aims to attract tourists who are passionate about adventure travel and environmental protection, contributing to the increase in the total number of international visitors. The government also plans to expand the number of flights and cruises, creating favorable conditions for travel, promoting the development of the tourism industry more strongly.

Notably, Brazil's hosting of the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Summit (COP 30) and organizing nearly 200 events within the framework of its 2025 BRICS Presidency is expected to create a strong boost for the tourism industry, attract visitors and enhance the country's position in the international arena.

Turquoise waters, pristine forests, wildlife and stunning surroundings make for a magical and captivating experience in Bonito Brazil. (Source: Awesome places to visit)

Brazil's Tourism Minister Celso Sabino said the upcoming events will enhance Brazil's appeal as an ecotourism destination and attract more visitors to explore the Amazon rainforest and its world-class biomes.

The Brazilian government’s efforts to promote tourism have received support from the private sector. Marina Figueiredo, Executive President of Braztoa, the Brazilian Association of Tour Operators, stressed that Brazil has great potential for ecotourism with its unique ecosystem. As global travelers increasingly seek experiences close to nature and wildlife, this is an advantage that the South American country needs to exploit more strongly.

The surreal beauty of Gruta do Lago Azul in Bonito, a cave with stunning blue waters and impressive stalactites. (Source: Awesome places to visit)

Another advantage for Brazil’s ecotourism development is the unprecedented growth of the global ecotourism market. According to the world’s leading market research firm Business Research Company, the market reached US$246.99 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach US$279.41 billion in 2025 and increase to US$497.65 billion in 2029, with a compound annual growth rate of 15.5%.

Faced with such strong development potential, Brazil will not stay out of the "race". This country will focus its resources, trying to gain as much market share as possible.

In short, as awareness of climate change increases, ecotourism is no longer a niche market but an inevitable trend, shaping travel preferences, destination choices, and global tourism policies. Brazil’s push for sustainable tourism not only helps preserve the country’s biodiversity and ecosystems, but also contributes to preserving its natural “treasures” for future generations.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Brazil: Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserve; Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves; Central Amazonian Protected Complex; Cerrado Reserves: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks; Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserve; Iguaçu National Park; Lençóis Maranhenses National Park; Pantanal Reserve.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/cay-hut-tien-cua-brazil-309036.html