Accueil » First Decline in Tourist Visits to Costa Rica Since the Pandemic in September and October

First Decline in Tourist Visits to Costa Rica Since the Pandemic in September and October

Despite this temporary decline, projections for the high season beginning in November are positive

par Yves Pepito Malette
1,2K vues

From April 2021 until August 2024, Costa Rica experienced steady growth in international visitor numbers each month. However, for the first time since the pandemic, this positive trend reversed in September 2024, with a 5.9% drop compared to 2023. October shows a similar trajectory, according to preliminary data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).

Reasons Behind the Drop in Visitation

According to the National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur), the appreciation of the colón could be reducing the purchasing power of foreign tourists and influencing their perception of travel costs in Costa Rica. Currently, the dollar is valued at around 511 colones, with further declines expected by year-end, which may further impact tourist spending.

Carolina Trejos, ICT’s marketing director, explained that September and October traditionally represent the quietest months of the low season, which spans from April to November. Since post-pandemic recovery began, Costa Rica has consistently maintained growth, partly due to the “rebound effect” from reopened borders. However, typical seasonal patterns now seem to be reestablishing.

A Focus on San José and Liberia Airports

Costa Rica’s airports, particularly the San José and Liberia terminals, have seen a decrease in arrivals in September and October. According to airport administrators, this drop is partly due to reduced operations and flight frequency. Despite this seasonal dip, forecasts remain optimistic: at the Daniel Oduber Quirós Airport in Liberia, the 2024 visitor numbers are expected to reach 96% of the previous year’s totals, with promising prospects for the high season.

Optimistic Forecast for the High Season

Despite this temporary decline, projections for the high season beginning in November are positive. ICT anticipates an increase in visitor numbers, with estimates reaching around 2.8 million arrivals for 2024, nearly 400,000 more than in 2023.

In conclusion, while September and October marked a pause in tourism growth, Costa Rica is preparing for a promising high season, focusing on diversification and enhancing its global appeal.


Related Articles

Laisser un commentaire