QCOSTARICA — Costa Rica experienced a significant increase in international tourist arrivals by air, with notable growth from North America and Europe.
In January the country received a total of 270,712 tourists by air.
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From the United States, the main market, a total of 149,770 tourists arrived, representing an increase of 17.6% compared to January 2023.
Likewise, Canada contributed 43,112 visitors, an increase of 9.9% compared to the same period of the previous year.
Mexico also played a key role, recording an increase of 22.1%, with 5,731 tourists arriving by air compared to January 2023.
Some specific countries stand out: a total of 9,909 tourists arrived from France, showing an increase of 12.8%, while the United Kingdom and Germany recorded increases of 6.7% and 9.5%, respectively.
Last month, Air France announced the expansion its operations to Costa Rica with the arrival of more flights until the end of March and between June and the beginning of September 2024, thus consolidating the country, as one of the preferred destinations for its clients.
“Costa Rica is one of the most desired destinations for French tourists,” said William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism.
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The Juan Santamaría International Airport (San Jose Airport – SJO) received 62% of total arrivals in January, with 168,839 tourists, representing a growth of 8.5% compared to the same month of the previous year. On the other hand, Daniel Oduber International Airport (Guanacaste Airport – LIR) received the remaining 38%, with 101,806 travelers, experiencing a staggering growth of 20.1%
These figures confirm an outstanding high tourist season, with increases in eight of the main markets, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, France and other European countries, highlighted the Minister of Tourism.
Continuing in its efforts of attracting new markets with high potential to promote the arrival of more tourists to the country, the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) – Costa Rica’s tourism board – participated, together with ten national tourism companies, in the 43rd edition of the Tourism Showcase of the Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (ANATO) that took place from February 28 to March 1.
“Colombia is one of the emerging markets in which the ICT will enter this year with the strategic vision of attracting tourists eager to live the Pura Vida experience, connect with nature, discover natural beauties, our culture, gastronomy and traditions; we will take advantage the proximity and air connectivity between both destinations, which make Costa Rica an attractive option for Colombians,” highlighted Minister Rodríguez.
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Colombia is the main source market for travelers to Costa Rica from South America. Last year, 28,463 Colombians visited us by air, followed by Argentina with 23,718, and Brazil with 19,788 tourists.
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