Brazils new Imperial Tourist Route, Caminho dos Prncipes, was established by Law 15.165/2025.It unites ten towns in northern Santa Catarina: Araquari, Balnerio Barra do Sul, Campo Alegre, Corup, Guaramirim, Jaragu do Sul, Joinville, Rio Negrinho, So Bento do Sul, and So Francisco do Sul.The aim is clear: more tourism money should stay in these communities, supporting local families, businesses, and traditions.
Joinville leads the route with more than 6,200 hotel beds, nearly 900 restaurants, unique cultural festivals, and architecture rooted in its German heritage.The city is also home to the only Bolshoi Ballet School branch outside Russia and serves as the regions main gateway for visitors.
Elsewhere along the route, smaller towns like Rio Negrinho, Campo Alegre, and So Bento do Sul highlight rural tourism.They offer farm stays, artisan food, and cultural events reflecting their German, Italian, Polish, and Ukrainian immigrant backgrounds.Experience Authentic Heritage: Exploring Santa Catarinas Most Diverse Tourist Route.
(Photo Internet reproduction)The Ministry of Tourisms support includes better infrastructure and focused marketing designed to guide visitor spending directly to small producers and local guesthouses.Tourism plays a growing role in Brazils economy.
By May 2025, the country welcomed 4.8 million international touristsa 50 percent jump from the previous year, official statistics confirm.National forecasts expect tourism to contribute US$167.6 billion to Brazils economy in 2025 and support over 8 million jobs.The Caminho dos Prncipes route uses its established highways and authentic heritage to offer experiences that travelers want, while delivering clear economic benefits for residents.The policy addresses a local need: keep profits at home, protect regional identity, and make sure growth supports families, not outside corporations.
The initiative stands as a tested model for balancing tradition, modern tourism, and fairer development.