10 Countries Poised to Limit Tourist Entry Soon

A growing number of countries are reconsidering tourism as environmental, cultural, and economic pressures rise. Here’s a look at 10 likely to impose limits.

Introduction: A Global Welcome Mat Under Review

Tourism, once a symbol of globalization’s promise, is now facing a reckoning. Across the globe, nations long reliant on visitors are reconsidering how much tourism they can sustain without compromising their natural environments, cultural identities, and infrastructure. As overtourism meets climate change and socio-political shifts, several countries may soon close their doors—or at least narrow them significantly.

Context: From Boom to Backlash

The tourism industry rebounded strongly after pandemic-induced shutdowns, with 2023 marking a return to pre-COVID travel numbers in many regions. But this rebound brought with it the resurfacing of long-standing problems: overcrowded heritage sites, strained local ecosystems, housing crises exacerbated by short-term rentals, and resentment among local populations.

Governments and communities in several countries are no longer seeing tourism as an unmitigated good. Instead, they’re beginning to weigh the costs—and in some cases, taking legislative steps to curb it.

10 Nations That Could Shut the Door on Tourists Soon

1.Japan

Japan’s charm has become its challenge. Kyoto and other heritage cities are struggling with tourist saturation. In April 2024, the city of Fujikawaguchiko blocked Mount Fuji views from a popular photo spot. Nationwide restrictions may follow, especially in ancient towns and temples swamped by selfie-stick-wielding travelers.

2.Italy

Italy’s treasures—Venice, Rome, Florence—are buckling under the weight of mass tourism. Venice has introduced a visitor tax and may cap daily arrivals. Recent floods and preservation concerns have fueled calls to temporarily limit access to UNESCO sites.

3.Iceland

Iceland’s delicate ecosystems are being eroded by foot traffic and overuse. Locals have voiced concerns over environmental degradation. In response, the government is considering seasonal closures of popular trails and limits on tourist permits in national parks.

4.Indonesia (Bali)

Bali’s image as a spiritual retreat has been marred by disrespectful tourist behavior and environmental damage. Authorities recently banned tourists from entering sacred temples and are weighing broader visa and entry restrictions targeting “digital nomads” and partygoers.

5.Netherlands

Amsterdam has declared war on “nuisance tourism.” A city once famous for its openness is now launching campaigns to deter party tourists and regulate Airbnb-style rentals. A broader national policy to redistribute tourism away from Amsterdam is underway.

6.Bhutan

Bhutan has always championed “high value, low volume” tourism. After COVID, it raised its Sustainable Development Fee to $200 per night. Further increases or stricter visitor caps are being debated in parliament to preserve its cultural fabric.

7.Thailand

Thailand’s Maya Bay, popularized by The Beach, reopened in 2022 after years of ecological recovery—but with strict limits. Now, Thai officials are considering a national eco-tourism strategy that could cap visitor numbers in popular islands and wildlife reserves.

8.Spain

Barcelona and Mallorca are poster children for the downside of mass tourism. Residents have protested, and local authorities have cracked down on short-term rentals. A tourist cap on cruise ships and day-trippers is already in place; more sweeping entry limits may follow.

9.New Zealand

New Zealand markets itself as a pristine natural haven—but with 3.8 million annual visitors (almost as many as its population), the pressure is mounting. The country may adopt quota-based tourist entry or raise its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.

10.Chile (Easter Island)

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, has already implemented visitor quotas. Rising concerns about environmental degradation and the impact on its indigenous Rapa Nui culture may lead to further tightening of entry permissions—possibly limiting the island to escorted tour groups only.

Expert Insight: Balancing Tourism and Sustainability

According to Dr. Megan Epler Wood, Director of the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program at Cornell University:

“Overtourism threatens the very assets that make destinations attractive. Limiting access isn’t anti-tourist; it’s pro-sustainability and pro-local.”

Local sentiment is also shifting. A 2023 survey in Venice found that over 65% of residents favored strict limits on tourist entries. In Barcelona, 70% support measures to restrict rentals and cap visitors during peak months.

Impacts and Implications: Who’s Affected?

Tourists may soon find it harder—or more expensive—to visit iconic sites. Expect more permit systems, daily caps, and seasonal closures. Travel agencies, especially those offering budget packages, may need to pivot toward less-frequented destinations.

Local economies reliant on tourism face trade-offs. While reduced foot traffic could impact revenue, many residents see long-term benefits: less pollution, lower rents, and restored community balance.

Airlines and travel platforms will need to update policies and recommendations in real time. Meanwhile, travel insurance companies may start accounting for canceled trips due to access denial or government limits.

Conclusion: Rethinking the Traveler’s Footprint

Tourism isn’t vanishing—it’s evolving. As more nations rethink the cost-benefit calculus of mass tourism, travelers, too, must adapt. The future belongs to responsible, mindful tourism that honors both people and planet.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Kyoto’s shrines or the beaches of Phuket, be prepared: the gates may not be as open as they once were.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information and projected policy discussions. Actual tourism restrictions may vary depending on evolving political, environmental, and public health circumstances.