Canada UK Australia boycott of US national parks is gaining momentum as international travelers reject new entry fees and border restrictions. Statistics Canada reported that Canadian residents' return trips from the US were down 24.3% in January 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, costing the American economy $4.5 billion last year.

International Visitors Face New $100 Surcharge

The US Department of the Interior announced in November 2025 that international visitors must now pay a $100 surcharge to visit 11 of America's most popular national parks. The new fees became effective January 1, 2026, making a family vacation to Yellowstone or Grand Canyon significantly more expensive for foreign tourists.

According to travel industry reports, a family of five non-US residents now pays several hundred dollars for a single day at Yellowstone National Park, compared to the previous $35 private vehicle entry fee. Annual passes for international travelers increased from $80 to $250, making extended stays prohibitively expensive.

Travel Agencies Report Dramatic Booking Declines

Intrepid Travel, headquartered in Australia, reported that bookings for US national park tours are down 42% compared to 2025. Canadian bookings have plunged by 93%, while UK and Australian reservations show significant declines. Some luxury travel agencies, including Cazenove+Loyd, are canceling plans for tailor-made itineraries centered on US national parks entirely.

"It might not be quite the time to launch something that is dedicated to the States," Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell, co-owner of Cazenove+Loyd, told CTV News. The luxury travel agency has already canceled plans for tours in California, Montana, and Washington.

Border Security Measures Deter International Tourists

Beyond the financial burden, international visitors are avoiding the US due to increasingly strict border policies. US Customs and Border Protection now requires all non-US citizens to undergo biometric facial recognition when entering or exiting the country. The agency is also searching travelers' phones more frequently and proposing new measures requiring up to five years of social media history.

Environmental groups are urging the US government to halt the new fee system, claiming it is negatively affecting visitor numbers. Conservation organizations argue that reduced international tourism impacts funding for park maintenance and wildlife protection efforts.

Impact on 2026 FIFA World Cup Tourism

The timing of these changes coincides with major international events scheduled for 2026, including the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations. However, potential visitors face additional barriers including the new $250 "visa integrity fee" and extended wait times for visa appointments.

Immigration advocates have released travel warnings for international tourists regarding Florida, one of the World Cup host cities, citing concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities. According to the American Immigration Council, six people died in ICE custody in January 2026, raising concerns among locals and foreigners alike.

It remains unclear whether the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America 250 will attract enough tourists to offset the losses caused by the Canada UK Australia boycott of US national parks. Read more about national park visitor statistics.