Rural tourism in Brazil: modern features and development factors

Rural tourism has a significant economic, social, and environmental impact, contributing to the sustainable development of rural areas through its multiplier effect. This study analyzes the development of rural tourism in Brazil. The key factors favoring rural tourism growth in the country include natural and climatic conditions, a rich ethnocultural heritage, and a diverse range of governmental support measures and tools. The benchmarking method was used to compare Brazil’s experience with similar practices in countries with comparable economic and natural conditions, such as Argentina, Mexico, and South Africa. This allowed for the identification of the potential, strengths, and weaknesses of rural tourism development in Brazil. The study also highlights key constraints: infrastructure limitations, economic and social barriers, environmental risks, and sustainability challenges. The authors propose solutions to the issues hindering rural tourism development in Brazil. Special attention is given to the adaptation of successful Brazilian practices (agritourism farms, ecological routes, and entrepreneurial support programs) for implementation in other countries to promote sustainable tourism development.