Rio de Janeiro Starts 2026 with 17% Growth in International Tourism
Rio de Janeiro begins 2026 with strong momentum. According to official data from Embratur, Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism and the Federal Police, the city welcomed 289,255 international tourists in January 2026, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
This performance makes January 2026 the best January on record for international tourism in Rio de Janeiro — reinforcing the city’s position as one of Brazil’s primary gateways for foreign visitors.
A Record-Breaking January for International Arrivals
In January 2025, Rio registered 240,151 foreign visitors. One year later, that number rose to 289,255, confirming a sustained upward trajectory at the very start of the year.
Nationally, Brazil received 1,401,476 international tourists in January 2026, demonstrating that Rio’s growth aligns with a broader expansion of inbound travel. However, Rio remains one of the country’s flagship destinations, consistently attracting a significant share of total arrivals.
According to Embratur’s president, Marcelo Freixo, this growth reflects strengthened international promotion strategies and the expansion of international air connectivity. Increased flight routes and frequency have improved accessibility from key global markets, directly supporting visitor growth.
Argentina Leads, But Diversification Is Expanding
Argentina continues to dominate as the primary source market for Rio de Janeiro. The number of Argentine visitors rose from 100,050 in January 2025 to 138,951 in January 2026 — an increase of 38.8%.
Other South American countries maintained strong representation. Chile sent 50,718 visitors (+3.69%), while Uruguay accounted for 10,461 arrivals (+1.06%).
Beyond the region, growth also came from long-haul markets. The United States recorded a 24.5% increase, rising from 17,875 visitors in January 2025 to 23,703 in January 2026. In Europe, France stood out with 6,571 visitors, reflecting a 19.1% increase year-over-year.
This diversification of origin markets is strategically important. A broader international base reduces dependency on a single economy and strengthens tourism resilience.
Strong Tourism Momentum Extends Beyond January
The positive start to the year coincides with projections for a highly dynamic Carnival season. According to the “Carnaval de Dados 2026” study prepared by Riotur and municipal authorities, Carnival is expected to generate approximately R$ 5.9 billion for Rio’s economy.
An estimated 8 million participants are projected to take part in parades at the Sambadrome, street blocos and popular events across the city. Municipal service tax (ISS) revenues linked directly or indirectly to Carnival-related activities are expected to reach around R$ 240 million, with tourism and events accounting for more than R$ 47 million of that total.
Together, these figures illustrate how Rio’s global events calendar and tourism performance reinforce each other, creating compounding economic impact.
What This Means for Rio’s Investment Landscape
Sustained growth in international tourism has structural implications. Rising visitor numbers support hotel occupancy, short-term rental demand, restaurant and retail activity, and service-sector employment.
For real estate investors, particularly in prime coastal neighborhoods and central hospitality zones, consistent inbound travel strengthens long-term fundamentals. A diversified mix of South American, North American and European visitors contributes to more stable year-round demand patterns.
The 17% increase in international arrivals at the start of 2026 is not an isolated spike. It reflects coordinated promotion efforts, expanded connectivity and Rio’s enduring global appeal as a cultural, leisure and event-driven destination.
A City Reinforcing Its Global Position
Rio de Janeiro’s performance in January 2026 confirms a broader narrative: the city remains firmly positioned on the international stage. Strong visitor growth, expanding air routes and a packed global events calendar create a virtuous cycle of visibility and economic activity.
As 2026 unfolds, the combination of record tourism numbers and high-impact events suggests that Rio continues to strengthen its profile as one of Latin America’s most dynamic urban markets.
