Ethnotourism is a form of tourism that promotes direct and respectful contact with traditional peoples, such as indigenous peoples, quilombolas, riverside dwellers and rural communities. More than just visiting a place, ethno-tourism offers an authentic cultural experience, where visitors can learn about ways of life, traditions, knowledge and stories that are part of Brazil’s cultural diversity.
This form of tourism values cultural preservation, respect for differences and environmental and social sustainability.

Ethnotourism circuits in Brazil
Brazil is a country of great ethnic and cultural diversity. Several destinations are already developing ethno-tourism experiences based on the appreciation and autonomy of communities. Here are some of the main circuits:
Amazon (AM and MT)
Indigenous peoples such as the Yanomami, Ticuna and Kayapó welcome visitors with activities such as craft workshops, body painting, traditional food and sacred rituals.
Chapada dos Veadeiros (GO)
The region is home to Kalunga quilombola communities, which offer ecological trails, conversation circles, music, dance and typical cuisine.
Vale do Ribeira (SP/PR)
Guarani and quilombola communities develop community-based tourism with a focus on environmental education and traditional knowledge.
Rota das Emoções (MA/PI/CE)
In addition to its natural beauty, the coast is home to the Tremembé indigenous people and fishing communities, who share their way of life and traditions.
Sertão de Pernambuco and Alagoas
Communities like Conceição das Crioulas offer cultural experiences linked to Afro-Brazilian religion, dance, family farming and historical resistance.
Cacoal (RO) – Paiter Suruí and Cinta Larga peoples
In the Cacoal region of Rondônia, the Paiter Suruí and Cinta Larga indigenous peoples are developing ethno-tourism initiatives focused on cultural appreciation, environmental preservation and sustainable income generation. Visitors can learn about traditional handicrafts, forest trails with indigenous guides, oral narratives, body painting, gastronomy and cultural presentations that express the ancestral wisdom of these peoples of the Western Amazon.

Among other destinations…

Impacts of Ethnotourism
Benefits
Strengthening communities’ cultural identity.
Generation of sustainable income and economic autonomy.
Exchange of knowledge and combating prejudice.
Encouragement of environmental preservation and responsible tourism.
Challenges and Cautions
Risk of folklorization and cultural de-characterization.
Invasion of sacred spaces and loss of privacy.
Exclusive economic dependence on tourism.
Environmental impacts in sensitive areas.
For this reason, ethno-tourism must always be conducted in an ethical, conscious and participatory manner, with the communities involved playing a leading role.

Why promote ethno-tourism?
Ethno-tourism offers a transformative experience for both the traveler and the recipient. It brings cultures together, combats stereotypes and helps to build a fairer, more diverse society that is connected to its roots. It’s a form of tourism that goes beyond leisure: it’s education, respect and appreciation of Brazil’s human and cultural wealth.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)