A stunning tropical country has been named by travel experts as the best place for tourists to visit in 2026. As popular areas in Spain and Portugal become less welcoming to tourists with more protests against overtourism carried out by local residents, many holidaymakers are considering alternative destinations for their 2026 getaways. Nowadays, long-haul travel has become more accessible, and countries like Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam attract a growing number of British tourists who seek sunshine, stunning beaches and top-quality hospitality.

As we approach 2026, travel experts have been busy analysing the best places to go in 2026, taking into consideration things like weather, cultural experiences and cost. Editors at travel publication Travel + Leisure have revealed their top picks for 2026 travel destinations, and one beautiful country outranks them all. These travel experts recently named Brazil as their Destination of the Year, shining a light on all of the reasons why tourists from around the world should consider visiting it in 2026.

Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world, and it has a plethora of destinations that are worthy of a visit. The South American country is known for its beaches, natural landscapes, nightlife and food.

A flight from the UK to one of the country’s most famous cities, Rio de Janeiro, takes around 12 hours, with British Airways offering direct flights to the vibrant city from London. While it’s much further away than go-to countries such as Spain, Portugal and Italy, its unique culture, like nowhere else in the world, would make the trip more than worth it, according to these experts.

Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford described Brazil as “a destination that embraces roar and spectacle”.

She wrote: “I’m eager for you to explore every corner and experience every texture, sight, smell, and vibe. The restaurant world is on fire, particularly in dynamic cities like São Paulo and in under-the-radar Belém, where Indigenous traditions are shaping the scene. The Amazon Basin is one of the earth’s most untamed and precious places.”

The most popular cities to visit in Brazil are Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, but there are also underrated gems spread across the country. Travel + Leisure recommends that people experience things like an Amazon River Cruise from Tabatinga to Manaus, the nightlife on Rio’s Morro do Pinto and the peaceful seaside vibe of Jericoacoara.

Social media users have also praised various destinations in Brazil. On Reddit, people have recommended destinations like Salvador, which someone described as a “blend of beaches and history”, and Florianópolis, which they say is “a little more on the expensive side” but totally worth it.

Brazil’s summer season is between December and March, so it makes for a great escape from the dull and gloomy winter months in the UK. As the country is so massive, the weather can vary greatly. The North-east coast of Brazil, which is where you find Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza and Natal, is considered the sunniest part of the country.

If you are excited by the idea of Brazil in 2026, the UK Foreign Office advises tourists to know a few things before going. The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to certain parts of Brazil, and warns that terrorist attacks and civil unrest can happen in certain regions of the country.

“You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities,” it warns, explaining that targets could be crowded places and large gatherings. 

It also warns against entering Favelas, which are densely populated ‘slums’ in many Brazilian cities where crime rates are high. “The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable and can be dangerous. Tourists have been shot after accidentally entering favelas.”

The Foreign Office’s complete advice for travelling to Brazil should be reviewed before going.