America the beautiful

Despite the recent US government regulation of access to eleven major National Parks with increasing fees for foreign tourists, international tourism doesn’t seem to be particularly affected by these restrictions, as visitors still show strong interest in eco-sustainability.

During this 2026, it is still too early to estimate definitive statistics and trends on international arrivals to the major US Parks. Some established travel agencies have reported a decline of 10%-40% in international visitors. This negative result has been influenced by the current critical global geopolitical situation as well.

It is necessary to reflect on the importance of environmental conservation in the United States. The rise of entrance fees represents an incentive to respect and support eco-sustainable tourism, protecting nature.

The money earned from ticket entrances will be used for environmental conservation and improvement of visitor services in the National Parks, including a wide range of recreational activities and accommodation options, such as campsites, lodging and eco-friendly hotels.

The ‘America the Beautiful’ pass is valid for one year and covers up to four visitors, discouraging mass-tourism, especially during peak season.

The tourism experience in National Parks is thus better served by regulating the number of visitors, avoiding further critical factors such as: crowding, uncontrolled access and environmental damage.

Besides, including: fast selfie tourism, egotourism and even dangerous situations caused by irresponsible and uncivilized visitors.

It is estimated that dozens of deaths occur every year in the US National Parks and Reserves due to: reckless behaviour, underestimation of weather conditions, disregard for one’s own well-being and health, overestimation of one’s physical condition and a poor sense of risk and danger.