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Nature tourism has taken center stage in Brazil’s travel economy. Data from Sebrae (Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service) and the Ministry of Tourism indicate that the segment now accounts for approximately 60% of the total revenue of the country’s travel industry.
This shift reflects a market reorganization, with over 65% of companies in the sector now offering experiences in natural environments. The demand for destinations featuring hiking trails, rivers, and immersion in preserved biomes has been on the rise among travelers.
Top Ecotourism Destinations in Brazil
The vast diversity of biomes in Brazil allows for a wide range of ecotourism itineraries. Some destinations stand out for their well-developed visitor infrastructure and significant environmental importance.
- Chapada dos Veadeiros (Goiás): Located in the Cerrado savanna, this region is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The National Park protects vital water springs and unique geological formations, with access to trails leading to landmarks like the Saltos do Rio Preto waterfalls.
- Lençóis Maranhenses (Maranhão): This National Park features a vast field of sand dunes that, after the rainy season, form crystal-clear freshwater lagoons. The most popular visiting season is between April and October when the lagoons are at their fullest.
- Pantanal (Mato Grosso/Mato Grosso do Sul): Considered the world’s largest tropical wetland, this region is a prime hub for wildlife watching. During the dry season, from July to October, the concentration of animals like jaguars and jabiru storks increases along the riverbanks.
- Alter do Chão (Pará): In western Pará, this district of Santarém is famous for its freshwater beaches that emerge from the Tapajós River. This phenomenon occurs during the “Amazonian summer,” the river’s low-water season, between August and December.
- Foz do Iguaçu (Paraná): The Iguaçu National Park is home to the famous Iguaçu Falls and one of the most significant remnants of the Atlantic Forest. The destination is a prime example of managing a large flow of visitors within a protected environmental area.
The management of these parks and the involvement of local communities are crucial factors for the long-term sustainability of these destinations. The sector’s growth is directly linked to the ability to balance tourism with the preservation of these delicate ecosystems.