During the year 2,925,128 international arrivals to the country were reported, and over 70% came in by air, which represents the main means of entry. 2016 showed growth of 13.8%; in other words, almost 260 thousand more arrivals than in 2015.

For the second consecutive year, the United States -the main market- exceeded one million international arrivals. Similarly, Europe increased its dynamism in the country, accounting for 434,884 arrivals by all routes and 353,326 by air. 

One significant piece of data is that for the first time the UK has become the main source of tourists from Europe, with growth of 50.3% by all routes and 56.5% by air.


January-December 2016

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More American Tourists in Costa Rica

April 2018

In the first quarter of the year the number of tourists who flew the US grew 6% compared to the same period in 2017.

After a period of uncertainty, the flow of American tourists has once again registered an increase in the first three months of the year. Specifically, 21,337 more Americans came into the country than between January and March of 2017.

Guatemala: Growing Influx of Tourists

April 2018

The number of foreign visitors who arrived in the country during Easter Week increased by 33% compared to the same period in 2017, while domestic tourism grew by 21%.

Figures from the Guatemalan Tourism Institute detail that "... tourist activity from March 23 to 31 was intensified compared to the same period in 2017 and exceeded forecasts, with a total of 3,065,918 domestic and foreign tourists." 

Costa Rica: Arrival of European Tourists Up 6%

August 2017

Between January and June, 219 thousand tourists came into the country from Europe, 6% more than the figure recorded in the first half of last year.

From a statement issued by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute:

During the first half of 2017, Europe showed steady growth in international arrivals (8.4% by air and a 6% increase for all routes to the country), according to data provided by the Directorate General of Migration and Aliens and analyzed by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute.

Panama: Tourists Arrivals From Europe Up 20%

June 2014

In the first four months of the year there were 73,788 European visitors, with Spain leading the list with 19,561 tourists, followed by the French with 10,553 and the Germans with 8,221.

According to figures from the Tourism Authority of Panama, European tourists are spending more per day and on average their stays are for 9.3 days.