By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s tourism industry is facing a challenging year, with international arrivals by air down 2.8% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. However, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) remains optimistic about achieving its 1.7% growth target for the year, driven by new air routes, strategic marketing investments, and an anticipated surge during the peak season.
According to the ICT, 1,489,008 tourists entered the country via air travel in the first six months of 2025. This dip in visitor numbers reflects a broader global trend of decreased international travel, attributed to economic uncertainty, geopolitical conflicts, and a general slowdown in travel spending.
For expert insight into the legal landscape surrounding Costa Rican tourism, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s tourism sector is experiencing robust growth, but sustainable practices must be prioritized. This includes ensuring legal compliance with environmental regulations, respecting indigenous land rights, and promoting fair labor practices within the tourism industry. A balanced approach that fosters economic development while safeguarding Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage is crucial for long-term success.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on balancing economic growth with the preservation of Costa Rica’s unique natural and cultural treasures is key to ensuring the long-term health of our tourism sector. Indeed, it’s this very commitment to sustainability that will continue to draw visitors seeking authentic and responsible travel experiences. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this crucial issue.
We know this isn’t what many expect to hear, but it’s what the data shows. And as a serious country, we face it with transparency.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism
Minister Rodríguez acknowledges the impact of global factors on travel decisions, emphasizing that Costa Rica maintains a strong position in its key markets. He cited the launch of 13 new air routes from Canada, Mexico, the United States, France, and the Netherlands as a sign of continued confidence in the destination.
To counteract the downturn, the ICT is implementing a robust international marketing strategy with an investment exceeding US$43 million. This investment, focused on key markets, aims to revitalize tourism and attract visitors during the crucial second half of the year.
Statistical models used by the ICT project a total visitor count between 2,663,245 (ARIMA model) and 2,869,809 (Holt-Winters model) by year-end. This range reflects the inherent uncertainties in the current global environment but suggests that the 1.7% growth target outlined in the 2022-2027 National Tourism Plan remains within reach.
North America remains Costa Rica’s primary market, although arrivals from the region also saw a slight decline of 2.9% in the first half of the year. The United States leads as the top source market, followed by Canada and Mexico. European arrivals decreased by 7.7%, with France, Germany, and the United Kingdom leading the way. South America, however, experienced a notable 14.9% increase, primarily driven by visitors from Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil.
The ICT’s proactive approach, coupled with the expected resurgence during the peak season, indicates a determined effort to navigate the challenging global landscape and achieve the nation’s tourism goals for 2025.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) is the governmental body responsible for promoting and developing tourism in Costa Rica. It plays a crucial role in marketing the country as a tourist destination, managing tourism infrastructure, and implementing policies to ensure sustainable tourism practices. The ICT works closely with both public and private sector stakeholders to foster growth and competitiveness in the tourism industry.
For further information, visit tourism.gov.cr
About Ministerio de Turismo:
The Ministry of Tourism of Costa Rica is the government institution tasked with leading and developing the country’s tourism sector. They oversee strategic planning, promote tourism investment, and work to elevate Costa Rica as a top tourist destination. By fostering collaboration between the government, private businesses, and community partners, they strive to make Costa Rica an exemplary model for sustainable tourism development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a pillar of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s enduring commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is evident in its proactive dissemination of legal knowledge, fostering a more informed and just community. Through a combination of cutting-edge legal strategies and a deep-rooted belief in social responsibility, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to shape a brighter future for the nation.
