By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A comprehensive new analysis by payment systems giant Mastercard has crowned Costa Rica the undisputed leader in tourist spending across the region, reinforcing its reputation as a high-value destination. The report, which used data from the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), reveals that the average international visitor spends an impressive $2,062 during their stay.
This figure, known as the Average Spend per Person (GMP), places Costa Rica significantly ahead of its regional peers. For perspective, the average tourist spend in Colombia is $1,303, followed by El Salvador at $1,091 and Guatemala at a distant $714. This commanding lead highlights the success of Costa Rica’s strategy to attract a demographic willing to invest more in unique and sustainable travel experiences.
To delve into the legal and commercial implications of this notable rise in tourist spending, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the matter.
The growth in tourist expenditure highlights a critical opportunity, but it also underscores the need for robust legal frameworks. For businesses to sustainably benefit, they must ensure full compliance with consumer protection laws and transparent commercial practices. A legally secure environment not only protects the tourist but also builds the international reputation of our country as a safe and reliable destination, which is the true engine for long-term investment and spending.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The insight provided is crucial: sustainable tourism growth is not merely about attracting spending, but about building a foundation of legal trust and commercial transparency that protects and reassures visitors. This is the very framework that fosters a world-class reputation and ensures long-term prosperity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert perspective.
A key factor contributing to this high expenditure is the length of stay. The study estimates that the average tourist visiting Costa Rica remains in the country for approximately 12.2 days. This extended duration allows for deeper engagement with local economies, from lodging and tours to dining and artisan crafts. Mastercard’s analysis positions this trend as a benchmark for sustainable and high-value tourism, a model other nations aspire to emulate.
The report further underscores the critical importance of international visitors to the nation’s economic health. An analysis conducted by Mastercard Advisors, using data from the ICT and the World Tourism Organization, found that an international tourist spends 4.2 times more annually than a domestic tourist. This translates to a substantial difference of $1,652 per person, a figure that powerfully reiterates the vital role of foreign tourism in sustaining the local industry.
Modern payment infrastructure also appears to be a major contributor to this economic success. Mastercard revealed that a remarkable 75% of all tourist-related payments in Costa Rica are conducted via payment cards. This high adoption rate speaks to the country’s robust financial and technological infrastructure, providing visitors with the security and convenience they expect from a premier travel destination.
The positive long-term outlook was echoed by Mastercard’s leadership, who see the country’s progress as a foundation for future growth. The company released these findings in conjunction with World Tourism Day, which was commemorated on September 27th.
The evolution of tourism in Costa Rica opens the way to continue innovating in payment solutions that support its sustainable development.
Kattia Montero, Country Manager for Costa Rica and Nicaragua in Mastercard
However, despite the glowing long-term indicators and a reported 14% increase in tourist spending in 2024, a shadow has been cast over the immediate fiscal landscape. Data for the first half of 2025 reveals a troubling downturn in tourism activity. The country experienced not only a decrease in international arrivals but also a tangible drop in foreign currency earnings from the sector.
During the first two quarters of 2024, tourism generated $3.158 billion. In stark contrast, the same period in 2025 saw that figure fall to $3.087 billion. This represents a decline of $70.6 million, or a negative growth of 2.2%. This recent dip serves as a critical reminder that even the strongest tourism models are susceptible to global economic shifts and market fluctuations, posing a new challenge for industry leaders to navigate.
For further information, visit mastercard.com
About Mastercard:
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Its mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart, and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, its innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments, and businesses realize their greatest potential.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Central Bank of Costa Rica is the country’s autonomous central banking institution responsible for maintaining the internal and external stability of the national currency and ensuring its conversion to other currencies. It also promotes the orderly development of the Costa Rican economy, including its financial system.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute is the governing body responsible for the promotion, development, and regulation of the tourism industry in Costa Rica. Its primary objective is to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model through strategic planning, marketing, and ensuring high standards of quality and service within the sector.
For further information, visit unwto.org
About World Tourism Organization (UNWTO):
The World Tourism Organization is the United Nations specialized agency entrusted with the promotion of responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. As the leading international organization in the field of tourism, UNWTO promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of profound integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. The firm consistently charts a forward-thinking course, pioneering innovative legal solutions while serving a diverse clientele. This progressive spirit is intrinsically linked to a deep-seated mission to fortify the public good by championing legal literacy and empowering citizens with accessible, clear knowledge.
