MGTO outlines five-level congestion system behind visitor flow tool

The Macao Government Tourism Office’s (MGTO) visitor flow monitoring system classifies congestion into five levels using thresholds and coefficients based on the on-site experience of each scenic area, with parameters that are “dynamically adjusted according to past data.”

In its response to the Times, MGTO detailed the data-driven system behind the city’s visitor flow monitoring tool, saying it relies on telecommunications data and algorithmic modelling to estimate crowd levels across major attractions.

The visitor flow function, available on the MGTO’s website, provides visual indicators of crowd density across key points of interest, enabling tourists to plan itineraries and avoid peak congestion while supporting authorities in managing foot traffic.

According to MGTO, the platform forms part of a broader push towards “smart tourism,” aimed at improving the visitor experience while easing pressure on heavily trafficked sites.

“The data source used by the visitor flow application is based on mobile signal data provided by CTM, using big data technology and an algorithmic model to calculate current conditions,” the tourism office said.

The system is updated approximately every 15 minutes, providing near real-time insights into crowd conditions.

On methodology, the bureau said the system divides the city into grids measuring 200 by 200 meters, calculating visitor density within each unit across designated scenic areas. These figures are then translated into five congestion categories – ranging from “comfortable” to “severely congested” – based on thresholds tailored to each location.

“Using thresholds and coefficients defined according to the on-site experience of each scenic area, the congestion level is determined and divided into five categories,” MGTO said, adding that these parameters are “dynamically adjusted according to past data.”

However, MGTO did not disclose specific numerical thresholds for each category, indicating that these values may vary by location.

Results are presented through a color-coded interface on the visitor flow webpage, designed to offer intuitive guidance. For instance, “lightly congested” areas appear in shades of yellow, with tonal variation reflecting relative density, from yellow-green to orange.

Looking ahead, the office signaled plans to refine the system further.

“MGTO will continue to enhance the visitor flow application by refining its algorithmic models to achieve greater accuracy,” it said.

Authorities also plan to expand access to the underlying data. “Related data will be made publicly accessible through the government’s open data platform, enabling stakeholders and the general public to utilise the information in accordance with their respective needs,” MGTO added.

The Macau tourism promotion website currently publishes data covering 114 points of interest.