ECOTOURISM GAINS STRENGTH IN BRAZIL AND BOOSTS NATURAL DESTINATIONS
Brazilians' interest in traveling amidst nature continues to grow in 2026.
Destinations surrounded by preserved beaches, trails, waterfalls, national parks and natural landscapes appear among the most sought after of the year, reinforcing the strength of ecotourism in the country.
A survey based on traveler search trends identified the ecotourism destinations most sought after by Brazilians throughout this year. The ranking showed that places that are already traditional for national tourism continue to arouse strong interest among travelers, especially among those looking for outdoor experiences and greater contact with nature.
The highlights of the list include Foz do Iguaçu, Ubatuba and Lençóis Maranhenses, as well as other destinations known for their natural landscapes and sustainable tourism.
The study also points to an increasingly clear change in the behavior of tourists, who have started to prioritize trips linked to well-being, tranquility and more authentic environmental experiences.
Foz do Iguaçu leads interest among travelers At the top of the ranking is Foz do Iguaçu, in Paraná.
The city remains one of the best-known tourist destinations in Brazil thanks to the Iguaçu Falls, considered one of the greatest natural attractions on the planet.
In addition to the falls, the region also has environmental parks, trails, boat trips and activities linked to local biodiversity, attracting Brazilian and foreign tourists throughout the year.
The consolidated tourist structure and the strong connection with ecological tourism help keep Foz do Iguaçu among the most sought after destinations in the country.
Ubatuba reinforces the strength of the coast linked to nature In second place in the ranking appears Ubatuba, on the north coast of São Paulo.
Known for its beaches surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, the city has become a reference for tourists looking for contact with nature without giving up the urban structure and easy access.
The municipality has more than one hundred beaches, as well as waterfalls, ecological trails and preserved areas that attract visitors interested in diving, surfing, trekking and environmental tourism.
In recent years, Ubatuba has also expanded projects linked to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism, further strengthening its image as a destination focused on ecotourism.
Lençóis Maranhenses remain among the most desired places Another highlight of the survey was the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, in Maranhão.
The scenery formed by white sand dunes and natural lagoons continues to be one of the most sought after in Brazilian tourism.
The combination of unique landscapes and experiences linked to nature helps transform Lençóis Maranhenses into one of the most desired destinations for both Brazilians and foreign tourists.
In recent years, the region has also gained international prominence in travel and adventure tourism lists.
Lagoons and dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses continue to enchant tourists from all over the world (Image Credit: Shutterstock)
Bonito and Chapada dos Veadeiros also appear among the favorites In addition to the top three, the survey highlighted other Brazilian destinations closely associated with nature tourism.
Bonito, in Mato Grosso do Sul, continues to attract visitors interested in crystal clear waters, fluctuations in transparent rivers and environmental activities.
Chapada dos Veadeiros, in Goiás, remains a reference in ecological tourism thanks to the waterfalls, trails and landscapes of the Brazilian Cerrado.
The destinations reinforce Brazil's natural diversity and show how different regions of the country have been consolidating themselves within the ecotourism segment.
Tourists seek more natural and sustainable experiences Experts in the tourism sector point out that the growth in searches for ecological destinations accompanies changes in the profile of travelers.
More and more people are showing interest in trips aimed at rest, disconnection from urban routine and direct contact with natural environments.
In addition, the demand for more sustainable experiences is also growing, with an appreciation for environmental preservation and local communities.
Activities such as trails, animal observation, diving, outdoor sports and nature-integrated accommodation have gained even more space among Brazilians' favorite itineraries.
Ecotourism strengthens the economy and environmental preservation The advancement of ecotourism also boosts the economy of different Brazilian regions.
In addition to generating jobs and strengthening local commerce, sustainable tourism has been identified as an important tool for environmental preservation and enhancement of national biomes.
Trend should continue to grow in the coming years The sector's expectation is that tourism linked to nature will continue to expand in the coming years.
With natural landscapes spread across different regions of the country, Brazil increasingly appears as one of the most promising markets in the world for ecotourism.
The increase in searches for environmental destinations reinforces not only Brazil's tourism potential, but also the importance of preserving these natural settings for future generations.
Source: Antena 1