Record Growth in International Arrivals
Costa Rica closed the first quarter of 2026 with historic figures in the arrival of foreign tourists, according to data published by the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT). Between January and March 2026, 959,738 tourists entered the country by air, representing an increase of 12.9% compared to the same period in 2025 and constituting the highest volume ever recorded for a first quarter in the history of national tourism. This trend reflects six consecutive months of growth in international arrivals, driven by positive dynamics from key markets such as the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Increase in Visitors and Source Markets
Of the total number of tourists who arrived in the country during these three months, a significant portion came from North America, with particularly strong momentum from the United States, which remains the main source market. European markets, including Spain, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, also recorded increases in traveler arrivals, consolidating the country’s position as an attractive global tourism destination.
Importance of Tourism for the Economy
The sustained growth in the number of international visitors has significant economic implications for Costa Rica. The tourism sector is one of the country’s economic pillars, generating substantial foreign exchange revenue, employment, and local economic activity. Although recent years experienced periods of volatility and challenges, the 2026 figures confirm a strong rebound in air visitation and the recovery of tourism activity after the challenges of 2025.
Consolidation of Routes and International Promotion
The growth in visitor arrivals has been supported by promotion strategies and the expansion of air routes, as well as the recovery of traditional markets and connectivity with new destinations. The ICT, together with private sector stakeholders, has emphasized the importance of maintaining active promotion in the main source markets to sustain visitor growth throughout the year.
Official and Reference Sources
• Instituto Costarricense de Turismo — official data on tourist arrival figures for the first quarter of 2026.
• El Financiero — coverage of the first quarter with historic tourism figures and official statements.
• Infobae — international summary of tourism records and growth by markets.
• Official statistics published on the ICT tourism data portal.
