12 Countries That Are Limiting Tourism – And Why
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), global tourism reached 1.5 billion international arrivals in 2019. This unprecedented growth has highlighted both the benefits and challenges of mass tourism. While it fuels local economies, it contributes to environmental degradation, strains infrastructure, and endangers cultural heritage.
Many countries, aiming to balance economic gains and sustainability, have begun imposing limits on tourism. Here’s a closer look at 12 countries that have taken steps to manage visitor numbers and protect their unique resources.
Italy
Italy’s iconic cities, like Venice and Rome, are grappling with overcrowding, putting immense pressure on infrastructure and diminishing the local experience. To address this, Venice has introduced measures such as a small entry fee for day-trippers and prohibited large cruise ships from entering its lagoon to protect its fragile ecosystem.
According to Statista, total tourist arrivals in Venice peaked at roughly 5.7 million in 2023—vastly outnumbering its population of 250,290. These restrictions showcase Italy’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks and cultural heritage.
Bhutan
Bhutan stands out as a country deeply committed to environmental and cultural preservation. Under its “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy, visitors must pay a Sustainable Development Fee of up to $200 per day, which covers lodging and guided tours.
This approach ensures that tourism supports ecological balance, cultural integrity, and spiritual harmony. The Bhutanese report that Bhutan recorded a total of 145,065 tourist arrivals in 2024, intentionally limiting the number to maintain its pristine environment and rich traditions.
Iceland
Iceland’s stunning natural beauty has drawn a surge in tourism, but this growth has also raised concerns about environmental degradation. Between 2010 and 2018, international tourist arrivals increased by 400%, reaching over 2 million annually—an impressive figure compared to its small population of around 384,000.
Iceland has implemented higher taxes and restricted access to sensitive areas to protect its unique landscapes, safeguarding its glaciers, geysers, and volcanic wonders for future generations.
North Korea
Unlike other destinations, North Korea remains one of the least accessible countries due to its strict political controls and limited international relations. Tourism is heavily regulated, with only approved guided groups allowed entry, typically diplomats or pre-screened travelers.
An estimated 5,000 Western tourists visit each year, and their activities are closely monitored to prevent outside influences. The country’s restrictive policies focus on maintaining control over external interactions.
Australia
Australia’s tourism industry faces challenges from increasingly erratic climate patterns, including wildfires and floods. Environmental sustainability is a key priority, with measures in place to protect vulnerable ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef.
Some reef areas now prohibit extensive human interaction to prevent coral bleaching. With coral loss events increasing by 66% between 1985 and 2012, these efforts aim to mitigate environmental decline and preserve the nation’s natural wonders.
Spain
Spain’s tourism hotspots, such as Barcelona and Ibiza, frequently deal with overtourism issues like cruise ship congestion and housing shortages exacerbated by platforms like Airbnb. In 2019, the country welcomed 84 million tourists, second only to France in global arrivals.
To manage this influx, Spain has implemented visitation caps and increased levies for access to specific regions. These measures aim to ease pressure on housing and public services while protecting residents’ quality of life.
Greece
Greece’s popular islands, such as Santorini, struggle with the effects of highly seasonal and concentrated tourism. With approximately 2 million tourists visiting Santorini annually—a staggering number compared to its 15,000 residents—the strain on local resources is immense.
Authorities have responded by capping daily cruise ship visits and limiting new developments on the island. These measures ensure sustainable growth while preserving Greece’s iconic architecture and natural beauty.
Portugal
Portugal has adopted a sustainable approach to tourism, focusing on promoting lesser-known regions to reduce pressure on popular destinations. In cities like Lisbon, where Airbnb apartments increased by 56% between 2016 and 2019, regulations on short-term rentals have been introduced.
Tourist taxes now fund public improvements to offset the impact of visitor numbers. Portugal boosts its economy by encouraging more evenly distributed tourism while protecting local resources and underexplored destinations.
Croatia
Dubrovnik, famously featured in “A Game of Thrones,” gained worldwide recognition but faced overwhelming crowds, threatening its cultural heritage. To combat the impact of mass tourism, authorities introduced daily visitor limits for the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During peak seasons, up to 10,000 cruise ship passengers disembark daily, nearly tripling the city’s local population. Focused measures are now in place to reclaim Dubrovnik and protect it from being “loved to death.”
New Zealand
Known for its pristine landscapes, New Zealand prioritizes environmental conservation at the core of its tourism policies. Restricted access to ecologically sensitive areas and abundant eco-tourism activities aim to preserve the nation’s natural beauty.
The government is investing $30 million in the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to support over a dozen biodiversity projects. With these initiatives, New Zealand cements its reputation as a global leader in sustainable travel.
Thailand
Overtourism caused severe damage to Thailand’s iconic sites, such as Maya Bay, prompting government action to protect its fragile ecosystems. Measures include beach closures and rotational tourist schedules to allow recovery periods.
Between 2018 and 2021, Maya Bay’s coral reefs were restored by 40% during its closure. Thailand’s careful interventions ensure that its natural beauty endures for future generations.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica has positioned sustainability as the cornerstone of its tourism strategy, making it a global leader in eco-tourism. With 25% of its land designated as national parks, the country uses entrance fees to fund ongoing conservation.
Nearly 70% of its electricity comes from renewable energy, reflecting its commitment to ecological stewardship. Costa Rica’s efforts showcase how tourism can thrive while protecting environmental diversity.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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