Costa Rica has seen a significant rise in tourism, marking a 14.5% increase in visitors in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This impressive statistic comes straight from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), which released a detailed semi-annual report this Friday.
Skyrocketing Numbers
From January to June this year, a whopping 1,532,443 tourists set foot in Costa Rica, primarily arriving by air. This influx represents a solid 14.5% bump from last year’s figures. According to the ICT, a stunning 92% of these visitors flew in, mainly hailing from the United States and Canada.
Tourism Minister William Rodríguez couldn’t hide his excitement when presenting the report. “The outstanding results of the first semester of 2024 show a dynamic, growing, and solid tourism sector,” he declared. This growth is a testament to Costa Rica’s resilience and its booming tourism industry.
A Full Recovery
The numbers reflect a complete recovery from the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the tourism sector in 2020 and 2021. Tourism is a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s economy, contributing 8.2% to the national GDP and serving as one of the largest sources of foreign exchange. The ICT is optimistic, forecasting a record 2.8 million tourists by the end of this year, up from 2.4 million in 2023.
Where Are They Coming From?
North America is the primary source of tourists for Costa Rica, with three out of four visitors coming from this region. The United States leads the pack, accounting for 61% of tourists, followed by Canada at 10% and Mexico at 2.8%. European tourists are also making their mark, with France contributing 2.8%, Germany 2.6%, and the United Kingdom 2.5%.
Growing Interest
Tourists from North America increased by an impressive 18% compared to the same period in 2023. European visitors also showed a notable rise, with French tourists up by 9.7%, Germans by 3.4%, and Brits by 5.5%.
What’s the Attraction?
Costa Rica’s natural beauty continues to be its biggest draw. The country’s national parks, diverse flora and fauna, and pristine beaches are top attractions. Visitors like Ilse Klaver, 51, from the Netherlands, are eager to experience activities like canoeing, diving, and zip-lining through the forests. “As I love nature, we decided to come and see it with our own eyes,” said Puerto Rican Sonia Martínez, a New York resident.
For 27-year-old Mexican María José Campos, the allure of Costa Rica lies in its “gastronomy and culture.” This blend of natural wonders and rich cultural experiences keeps tourists coming back.
Costa Rica is experiencing a tourism boom, with a significant increase in visitors this year. The country has bounced back from the pandemic’s impact and is on track to set new records in tourism. With its natural parks, vibrant flora and fauna, and stunning beaches, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is a top destination for travelers from around the world.
Costa Rica’s tourism sector is not just recovering; it’s thriving. The country’s dedication to improving infrastructure and maintaining its natural beauty is paying off, attracting more visitors than ever. As we move into the latter half of 2024, all eyes will be on Costa Rica to see if it can sustain this incredible growth and continue to enchant visitors from across the globe.
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