Costa Rica is a premier eco-tourism destination. It ended 2025 with a slight 1% increase in tourist arrivals by air. This modest growth prevented a negative close to the year. But it showed a clear slowdown of Costa Rican tourism compared to global trends and neighboring countries.
The National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur) viewed the result as a positive sign. Figures had fallen below 2024 levels for several months. But the group stressed that this minimal growth is not enough. It does not fix the structural challenges facing the industry.
Global tourism showed stronger momentum in 2025. UN Tourism data shows international arrivals grew near 5% through September. Costa Rica performed much worse during the same period.
The gap is clear when comparing Costa Rica to competitors in the Americas:
- Colombia: +4%
- Dominican Republic: +5%
- Mexico: +6%
- Guatemala: +10%
These countries captured a larger share of post-pandemic travel demand.
Market Analysis: Shifts in Visitor Origins
North America remained the largest source market for Costa Rican tourism in 2025. It contributed nearly two million tourists. But arrivals from the United States grew by only 0.5%. This is the country's most important market. The low number signals stagnation among traditional visitors.
Europe performed worse. It recorded a cumulative -2.1% decline for the year.
A bright spot came from South America. This region posted impressive +14.5% growth. Strong performance from southern neighbors played a key role in the positive annual result. It helped offset weakness in established markets.
Internal Challenges Undermining Competitiveness
Canatur says the slowdown stems from internal factors. Several issues have hurt Costa Rica's competitive edge like the low exchange rate which makes the country less affordable for foreign visitors. The tourists have reduced spending capacity, the infrastructure deficiencies persist, the concerns about insecurity are rising, and the competition from the informal sector is increasing.
"This slight growth represents a respite for the sector, but we cannot be satisfied," said Shirley Calvo, Executive Director of Canatur.
A Call for Strategic Action
Canatur urges authorities to increase promotional efforts. They want to target high-growth markets. This applies to South America because it has shown strong momentum.
The Chamber repeated the country's long-term goal. They want to sustain annual growth of at least 5% in tourist arrivals. This target however remains distant based on the 2025 results.
The country's natural beauty and reputation for "Pura Vida" remain powerful draws. But the nation must fix internal competitiveness issues. This is the only way to regain momentum. It must keep pace with regional tourism changes in the coming years.
