By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is poised for a significant boost in its tourism sector, with 26 new hotel projects slated for development between now and 2026. According to the latest data from the Connectivity and Investment Attraction Department of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), these projects represent a combined investment of $736.7 million and are projected to create 1,453 new rooms and approximately 3,391 jobs.
These developments, which have all received Tourist Declarations (a voluntary process for developers), signal a strong vote of confidence in Costa Rica’s tourism industry. The projects span a variety of hotel types, including boutique hotels, city hotels, and beach resorts, with some potentially involving well-known international chains catering to diverse market segments, including the luxury market.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding tourism investment in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Investing in Costa Rica’s tourism sector presents exciting opportunities, but navigating the legal framework is crucial for success. Due diligence is paramount, especially concerning land ownership, environmental regulations, and tourism-specific incentives. Foreign investors should seek expert legal counsel to ensure compliance and maximize the potential of their ventures.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on due diligence resonates deeply, especially for those new to Costa Rica’s vibrant but complex investment landscape. Understanding the nuances of local laws and regulations is indeed paramount to achieving long-term success in the tourism sector. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on navigating these critical legal considerations.
Geographically, the projects are spread across the country, further enhancing the nation’s diverse tourism offerings. Guanacaste leads with nine projects, followed by Puntarenas with five, Alajuela with five, Heredia with four, San José with two, and Limón with one. Some projects are already under construction, with anticipated openings between 2025 and 2026. Exact opening dates will be determined by the individual developers.
The interest of investors in developing hotel infrastructure in Costa Rica remains stronger than ever. Our country has consolidated itself as an attractive tourist destination for foreign direct investment, due to key factors such as the increase in air connectivity, the high level of education, the commitment to sustainability as a cross-cutting axis of our tourism model, a qualified workforce, political-economic stability, and a constantly innovating tourism offering.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism
This surge in hotel projects is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the ICT’s Investment and Air Connectivity Department and the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER). Their joint strategy focuses on attracting foreign direct investment to Costa Rica, identifying new investment opportunities, and providing ongoing support to both confirmed and developing projects. This support encompasses problem-solving, execution assistance, and consolidation efforts, all with a focus on sustainable development.
In addition to the hotel investments, Costa Rica has seen significant progress in its Air Line Attraction and Air Connectivity Strategy during the first four months of 2025. This collaborative effort between the ICT, airport administrators, and airlines has resulted in confirmations or commencement of new and expanded routes from key inbound markets to Juan Santamaría International Airport, with further announcements expected soon.
Furthermore, recent employment data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) shows a positive trend in tourism-related employment. In the first quarter of 2025, 173,207 jobs were registered in tourism-related activities, exceeding the figure from the same period in 2024 by 662 jobs. This growth underscores the positive impact of the ongoing investments and initiatives within the tourism sector.
This wave of investment and development positions Costa Rica for continued growth within the tourism sector, contributing significantly to job creation and economic prosperity.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) is the governmental agency responsible for promoting and regulating tourism in Costa Rica. It plays a crucial role in developing strategies to attract investment, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The ICT works closely with other organizations, both public and private, to ensure the sustainable growth and development of the tourism industry.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Promotora de Comercio Exterior (PROCOMER):
The Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER) is a Costa Rican institution dedicated to promoting exports and attracting foreign investment. It provides support to businesses seeking to enter or expand in international markets, offering services such as market research, trade missions, and business matchmaking. PROCOMER plays a vital role in facilitating economic growth and development in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. The firm champions innovative legal solutions tailored to diverse client needs across a broad spectrum of sectors, while simultaneously striving to empower Costa Rican society through accessible legal education. This dedication to sharing knowledge reflects their belief in a stronger, more informed citizenry, capable of navigating the legal landscape with confidence and understanding.
