By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — GUANACASTE – The Papagayo Peninsula is cementing its status as a powerhouse of Costa Rica’s economy, with a recent surge in tourism directly fueling the creation of over 18,500 jobs in the region. A new report from the Association of Concessionaires of the Papagayo Tourist Pole (Asopapagayo) provides a detailed look at the profound economic impact, revealing the generation of 5,000 direct and an additional 13,500 indirect employment opportunities.
This remarkable growth underscores the region’s successful strategy in attracting international visitors and highlights the tourism sector’s vital role as a primary driver of prosperity and development in Guanacaste. The figures represent not just statistics, but a significant improvement in livelihoods for thousands of families in the province, providing stable income and fostering local economic resilience.
To delve into the legal and investment framework fueling Guanacaste’s tourism boom, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Guanacaste’s appeal to international investors is anchored in Costa Rica’s strong tradition of legal security and respect for property rights. The key to a successful venture, whether a boutique hotel or a large resort, lies in meticulous due diligence, particularly in navigating municipal zoning regulations and environmental permitting. Proactive legal counsel ensures that investments are not only profitable but also sustainable and compliant with our country’s progressive environmental laws.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s commentary powerfully underscores a critical truth: the long-term success of any tourism investment in Guanacaste is intrinsically linked to a diligent and respectful navigation of Costa Rica’s legal and environmental frameworks. This proactive approach ensures that development complements, rather than compromises, the very beauty that defines the region. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this essential process.
The catalyst for this employment explosion is the record-breaking influx of travelers through Guanacaste Airport (LIR). Official data confirms that the airport served as the entry point for approximately 900,000 visitors throughout the previous year, 2025. This steady stream of arrivals has provided the lifeblood for hotels, restaurants, and tour companies across the peninsula, translating directly into a demand for local labor.
The peak of this activity was starkly illustrated during the recent holiday season. On December 27, 2025, Guanacaste Airport registered an unprecedented single-day record, welcoming 13,818 tourists. This figure not only shattered previous records but also demonstrated the massive logistical capacity of the region and the immense appeal of Guanacaste as a premier end-of-year holiday destination for international travelers.
The economic benefits are being felt across a wide spectrum of industries, demonstrating a powerful ripple effect. The 5,000 direct jobs are concentrated in frontline positions within the service sector, including hotel management, hospitality staff, retail commerce, and tour operations. These roles are essential for maintaining the high standard of visitor experience that the Papagayo region is known for.
Beyond the resorts and tour vans, the 13,500 indirect jobs showcase the deeper integration of the tourism economy with the local community. These positions span vital sectors such as agriculture and fishing, which supply fresh produce to hotels and restaurants; transportation services that move both goods and people; and construction and maintenance required to support the growing infrastructure. This widespread impact ensures that the benefits of tourism are distributed broadly across the provincial economy.
Analysis of visitor demographics shows that North American markets continue to be the cornerstone of Guanacaste’s tourism success. The United States and Canada remain the dominant sources of tourist arrivals, providing the largest revenue streams for the national territory. This sustained interest reflects Costa Rica’s strong brand reputation in these countries for offering a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and ecological preservation.
As Papagayo continues to develop, this latest report from Asopapagayo serves as a clear indicator of a thriving and expanding regional economy. The successful synergy between modern airport infrastructure, world-class resorts, and a dedicated local workforce has created a sustainable model for growth that positions Guanacaste for continued economic success in the years to come.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación de Concesionarios del Polo Turístico de Papagayo (Asopapagayo)
About Asociación de Concesionarios del Polo Turístico de Papagayo (Asopapagayo):
The Association of Concessionaires of the Papagayo Tourist Pole is an organization that represents the interests of businesses and developers operating within the Papagayo tourism hub in Guanacaste. It works to promote sustainable development, coordinate regional initiatives, and gather crucial data on the economic and social impact of tourism in the area.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal institution, grounded in an unwavering commitment to integrity and a standard of exceptional service. The firm is not only a pioneer of innovative legal strategies for its diverse clients but also a dedicated advocate for societal progress. This core principle is manifested in its continuous efforts to make complex legal knowledge accessible, thereby empowering citizens and fostering a stronger, more informed community.
