South America tourism sector supports 18.5 million jobs in 2026
South America's travel and tourism sector now supports 18.5 million jobs in 2026, accounting for 8.3 % of regional employment. The surge reflects strong domestic demand, infrastructure investment and rising international arrivals, and it is already reshaping labour markets across the continent.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Tourism sector now supports 18.5 million jobs across Central and South America
- Timing
- Data reflects the situation in late 2026
- Who is affected
- Employers, workers and travellers in the South American tourism industry
The details
- Announced by
- World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
Employment Scale and Share
Research from the WTTC shows that the travel and tourism sector will support 18.5 million jobs in 2026, representing 8.3 % of all jobs in Central and South America. This makes tourism the largest single employer in the region and a key pillar of the labour market.
Economic Drivers
The surge is driven by a mix of rising domestic travel, large‑scale infrastructure projects and a rebound in international arrivals. Domestic travellers accounted for 59.70 % of market share in 2025, providing a stable base that cushions the sector from seasonal swings.
- Domestic demand ensures year‑round hotel occupancy and airline load factors
- New long‑haul routes and modernised transit experiences boost inbound tourism
City‑Level Growth
Major urban hubs are leading the job creation. São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil together hold 23.20 % of the regional market share, with corporate events and cultural festivals driving hospitality hiring. Lima, Peru, benefits from e‑gate technology that shifts border‑processing jobs to tech‑focused roles. Buenos Aires and Santiago rank first and second on the 2026 Global Cities Index, while Ecuador and Colombia show the fastest employment growth rates.
- São Paulo’s Design Week lifted hotel occupancy by 13 % YoY
- Rio’s 2026 Carnival raised RevPAR by 48 % YoY
- Lima’s ABC eGates created new airport tech and hospitality positions
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers will find more hotel rooms and flight seats available due to expanded capacity
- Increased employment may improve service quality at airports and hotels
- Higher domestic travel activity could lead to more frequent regional flight schedules
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements are introduced for travellers
- Airline and hotel pricing may rise as demand and RevPAR increase
What you need to do
- Monitor airline and accommodation platforms for expanded booking windows
- Consider travel insurance that covers potential price fluctuations
- Stay informed about new routes and airport services that may affect itineraries
Who this affects
-
International leisure travellers to South America
Rising inbound arrivals are a core factor in the employment surge
-
Business travellers attending events in São Paulo
Corporate events are driving hospitality hiring in the city
-
Domestic travellers within Brazil
Domestic demand accounts for the majority of market share and stabilises employment
Frequently asked questions
How many jobs does tourism support in South America in 2026?
Tourism supports 18.5 million jobs in 2026, which is 8.3 % of all jobs across Central and South America, according to the WTTC.
Which cities are leading job growth in South American tourism?
São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Buenos Aires and Santiago are the top urban hubs, each contributing significantly to regional employment gains.
What is the share of domestic travellers in the South American tourism market?
Domestic travellers accounted for 59.70 % of the market share in 2025, providing a stable base for year‑round employment.
Is there any new documentation required for tourists visiting South America?
No new documentation or fee requirements have been announced for tourists; existing entry rules remain unchanged.
Will airline capacity increase in South America in 2026?
Yes, carriers are adding routes and new aircraft such as LATAM’s Embraer E195‑E2 jets, which will expand connectivity and create aviation jobs.
