Brazil tourism boom draws luxury hotel investment as arrivals hit record

Brazil received a record 9.2 million foreign tourists in 2025, with 5.2 million in H1 2026, surpassing National Tourism Plan targets. Major international luxury hotel chains, including Sofitel in Ipanema, are expanding in response, betting on significant growth potential compared to mature markets like Portugal. The trend signals rising foreign investment in Brazil's hospitality sector, though absolute numbers remain modest.