Paraguay, Brazil, and Chile Lead Global Tourism Recovery in Early 2025
According to the latest data released by UN Tourism, international travel is witnessing a robust resurgence in 2025, with several destinations across the Americas emerging as frontrunners. In the first quarter of 2025, Paraguay topped the global tourism growth chart with a remarkable 53% increase in international tourist arrivals compared to the same period in 2024.
Closely following Paraguay are Brazil and Chile, each registering a strong 48% growth. These figures reflect the growing appeal of South America’s diverse offerings—from Brazil’s cultural vibrancy and natural beauty to Chile’s stunning landscapes and sustainable tourism initiatives.
The Gambia, a standout from Africa, also recorded an impressive 46% rise, placing it fourth globally. Meanwhile, Israel and Vietnam secured the fifth and sixth spots with 31% and 30% growth respectively, signaling rising interest in Middle Eastern heritage and Southeast Asian experiences.
Other notable performers include Japan (23%), North Macedonia and Morocco (22% each), and Egypt (21%), all benefiting from enhanced connectivity and improved tourism infrastructure. Countries like Lithuania, Palau, and Mongolia also made the top 20, showing tourism’s expanding footprint beyond traditional hotspots.
The report also highlights strong performances by Malta, Ecuador, Curaçao, Latvia, Finland, Iran, and South Korea, all posting double-digit growth. Notably, the figures are based on destinations that provided data for January and February 2025, and some countries still remain below pre-pandemic levels.
UN Tourism’s findings underscore a global revival of travel and a shift in tourist preferences toward lesser-explored, culturally rich, and nature-based destinations. With strategic investments, regional cooperation, and a focus on sustainability, these emerging destinations are poised to shape the next era of global tourism.
