How domestic tourism drives the economy in times of a high dollar

When the dollar soars, many Brazilians swap abroad for their own backyard. In this scenario, domestic tourism drives the economy It is not just an optimistic statement: it is a real reflection of national adaptation.

In this article, you will understand how this trend positively impacts the market, jobs, income and development in different regions of the country.

Summary:

• The immediate impact of the rise in the dollar on travel decisions
• How domestic tourism transforms small local economies
• Job creation and income circulation
• The new mentality of the Brazilian consumer
• Tourism as a strategic public policy
• Practical example: Bonito (MS) and the vibrant economy
• Culture, sustainability and development in focus
• Serra da Capivara (PI): tourism and history that drive the economy
• Frequently Asked Questions

The immediate impact of the rise in the dollar on travel decisions

With the dollar surpassing R$ 5.50 in 2025, international packages have become less affordable for most Brazilians.

This factor, combined with global inflation and economic uncertainty, has led many travelers to reconsider their choices.

It is no wonder that the domestic tourism drives the economy: it is strengthened when Brazilians decide to explore their own country instead of looking for expensive destinations abroad.

It's as if one door closed and another opened. International airports gave way to intercity buses, state highways and regional airports.

The logic changed, but the desire to travel remained.

How domestic tourism transforms small local economies

Cities such as Tiradentes (MG), Alter do Chão (PA) and Penedo (AL) began to experience a different reality: more visitors, more demand for services and more opportunities for growth.

The choice of nearby and authentic destinations caused a wave of economic impact. Small producers, family-run guesthouses and local guides were the first to feel the positive effects.

This type of tourism is centered on experiences: charming accommodation, typical cuisine, trails, waterfalls, regional festivals and direct contact with the local culture.

All of this moves resources that remain in the community.

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Job creation and income circulation

According to the National Confederation of Commerce (CNC), tourism generated more than 8.5 million direct and indirect jobs in Brazil by the end of 2024.

This number represents the importance of the sector in the post-pandemic restructuring. More than that, it shows how the domestic tourism drives the economy in a decentralized and inclusive manner.

In a single long weekend, a city of 30,000 inhabitants can receive three times its population in tourists.

The result? Restaurants operate three shifts, hotels increase their temporary staff and local businesses see an increase in sales.

The impact is direct: the barber cuts more hair, the street vendor doubles his revenue, the local musician has an audience.

It is the gears of the economy turning with national 100% fuel.

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The new mentality of the Brazilian consumer

The tourist of 2025 doesn't just want to take a vacation. He wants to reconnect, learn real stories, and appreciate what is done here.

This is why the search for destinations that offer more than leisure is growing: that offer belonging.

This turning point is at the heart of the claim that the domestic tourism drives the economy.

A recent survey by the Ministry of Tourism shows that 731% of Brazilians plan to travel around the country in the next 12 months.

And we’re not just talking about famous beaches: demand for historic, rural and nature destinations has increased by 28% in one year. Authenticity has become an economic asset.

Tourism as a strategic public policy

Travelers are not the only ones paying attention to this movement. State and municipal governments are investing in tourism infrastructure, training and promotional campaigns.

The Tourism Regionalization Program, from the Ministry of Tourism, already brings together more than 2,500 municipalities in integrated itineraries.

This strategy favors local development and reduces dependence on large urban centers.

With tax incentives and public-private partnerships, new themed itineraries, tourist cycle paths, cultural events and gastronomic festivals emerge.

The view that the domestic tourism drives the economy thus becomes a concrete growth policy. And best of all: sustainable, distributed and with identity.

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Practical example: Bonito (MS) and the vibrant economy

In 2023, Bonito (MS) received more than 270 thousand Brazilian tourists, according to official data from the Mato Grosso do Sul Tourism Foundation.

This city, renowned for its ecotourism, has managed to transform its natural vocation into a driving force for economic development.

Family businesses were modernized, young people started working as tourist guides, and the local economy saw its GDP grow above the state average.

This example clearly illustrates how the domestic tourism drives the economy when there is planning and integration.

Culture, sustainability and development in focus

Another important point is that domestic tourism has a cultural impact that goes beyond money.

It preserves stories, values local cuisine, and strengthens identities. All of this is part of an ecosystem that generates emotional and economic value.

By consuming at craft fairs, participating in popular festivals or visiting regional museums, tourists inject resources where there was previously a shortage.

A study by Sebrae revealed that 41% of small businesses operating in tourism recorded an increase in revenue in 2024.

This is the tourism that distributes. That decentralizes. That connects. And that, as a consequence, strengthens communities.

Serra da Capivara (PI): tourism and history that drive the economy

In Piauí, the Serra da Capivara National Park is an archaeological treasure. With more than 1,200 prehistoric sites, it attracts scholars and curious visitors from all over the world.

But the most surprising thing is how this historical wealth has translated into local development.

The creation of a network of inns, restaurants and cultural centers in the city of São Raimundo Nonato allowed the income generated by tourism to remain in the territory.

Today, young people from the community work as monitors, receptionists and even researchers.

This is another real example of how the domestic tourism drives the economy based on resources that do not need to be imported: our history, our nature, our people.

Imagine the Brazilian economy as a large fair. For years, we let part of our money go to other stalls, in other countries.

But when we choose to buy from the stall next door, we help support that neighbor who also buys from the baker, who pays the seamstress, who employs the nephew.

This is the virtuous cycle of local tourism.

Domestic tourism is that choice. It is a vote with your pocket for the neighborhood economy on a national scale.

Conclusion

Given the exchange rate volatility and global challenges, traveling around Brazil is no longer a second-best option.

It is a strategic, economic and social decision. When the domestic tourism drives the economy, it does so based on real links, cultural roots and opportunities for inclusive growth.

So, before booking your next trip, think about how many people you can impact with this choice.

Brazil is plural, surprising and ready to welcome you. And the local economy is grateful.

You can explore regional actions at Ministry of Tourism website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is domestic tourism cheaper than international tourism?
In most cases, yes. In addition to the savings on international flights and currency exchange, accommodation and food costs are more affordable in domestic destinations.

2. What are the main benefits of domestic tourism for the local economy?
Job creation, increase in municipal revenue, encouragement of artisanal production and development of urban and rural infrastructure.

3. Is domestic tourism sustainable?
It can be, as long as it is planned and respects the local culture and the environment. Many destinations have adopted conscious practices to welcome visitors without harming the community.

4. Is it safe to travel to Brazil?
Yes, as long as the traveler is aware of safety recommendations and chooses well-structured locations with good reviews from other tourists.

5. How do I know if my trip will actually help the local economy?
Give preference to family-run accommodations, local guides, regional restaurants and artisanal products. Avoid large chains that do not redistribute their income in the territory visited.

Now it's up to you: what will be your next destination in Brazil? Because when the domestic tourism drives the economy, we are all the ones who win.