Costa Rica is strengthening its position as one of Central America’s leading tourism destinations after welcoming 1.73 million international visitors during the first half of 2026. The latest figures released by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), based on migration records from the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME), show continued global demand for the country’s rainforests, beaches, biodiversity and adventure tourism. Air travel remained the primary gateway for visitors, while growing arrivals from France, Germany, Switzerland and Colombia helped diversify Costa Rica’s international tourism markets and reinforce its reputation as a global leader in sustainable travel.
International Arrivals Continue Building Tourism Momentum
Costa Rica’s tourism sector maintained strong momentum between January and June 2026.
The country welcomed approximately 1.73 million international visitors across air, land and maritime entry points, reflecting continued interest from travellers seeking nature, wildlife, wellness and outdoor adventures. The latest figures demonstrate the broad appeal of Costa Rica across multiple international markets while highlighting its resilience within the global tourism industry.
International arrivals continue supporting hotels, tour operators, transport providers and local tourism businesses across the country.
Air Travel Remains the Main Gateway
Air transport continued dominating international arrivals into Costa Rica.
Most overseas visitors entered the country through international airports, reflecting the importance of direct flight connectivity with North America, Europe and South America. Juan Santamaría International Airport near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia remained the principal gateways for leisure travellers exploring different regions of the country.
Strong aviation links continue making Costa Rica accessible for both long-haul and regional visitors.
European Markets Gain Greater Importance
Costa Rica continued attracting increasing numbers of visitors from Europe during the first half of 2026.
France, Germany and Switzerland strengthened their roles as important source markets, contributing to broader international visitor diversification. European travellers continue choosing Costa Rica for its protected national parks, biodiversity, eco-lodges, volcanoes and coastal destinations on both the Pacific and Caribbean shores.
Growing interest from Europe supports year-round tourism while expanding Costa Rica’s global visitor base.
Colombia Strengthens Regional Tourism
Regional travel also remained an important contributor to Costa Rica’s tourism performance.
Colombia continued generating steady visitor demand, supporting tourism growth from South America. Improved air connectivity and growing regional travel opportunities have encouraged more Colombian travellers to include Costa Rica in their holiday plans.
Regional markets complement long-haul tourism while helping maintain consistent visitor flows throughout the year.
Sustainable Tourism Continues Driving International Appeal
Costa Rica remains internationally recognised for its commitment to sustainable tourism.
Protected rainforests, wildlife conservation programmes, eco-tourism experiences and national parks continue attracting travellers looking for environmentally responsible holidays. Visitors can explore destinations including Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest while experiencing Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
The country’s focus on conservation continues distinguishing it within the international tourism market.
Adventure and Nature Experiences Attract Global Travellers
Costa Rica offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences for international visitors.
Activities including zip-lining, surfing, hiking, wildlife observation, rafting, diving and volcano excursions continue attracting travellers from around the world. Coastal resorts, rainforest lodges and wellness retreats further broaden the country’s tourism offerings.
The variety of experiences encourages visitors to extend their stays and explore multiple regions during a single trip.
Connectivity Supports Continued Tourism Growth
Costa Rica continues benefiting from expanding international air services.
Regular flights from North America, Europe and Latin America provide convenient access for international travellers, while domestic transport networks connect visitors to beaches, national parks and mountain destinations throughout the country.
Strong connectivity remains an important factor supporting Costa Rica’s continued tourism growth and destination accessibility.
Key Visitor Information
Location: Costa Rica, Central America.
Nearest International Airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).
Nearest Transport Links: Domestic airlines, intercity bus services, rental cars and regional highways connecting major tourism destinations.
Nearby Attractions: Arenal Volcano National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero National Park, Corcovado National Park, Tamarindo Beach, La Fortuna, Poás Volcano and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
Local Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC).
Conclusion
Costa Rica’s tourism sector continued expanding during the first half of 2026, welcoming 1.73 million international visitors as air travel remained the dominant mode of arrival and international demand strengthened across Europe and South America. Growing visitor numbers from France, Germany, Switzerland and Colombia highlight the country’s expanding global reach, while its internationally recognised commitment to sustainable tourism, biodiversity and adventure travel continues attracting travellers from around the world. Supported by strong air connectivity, diverse tourism experiences and protected natural landscapes, Costa Rica remains one of Central America’s most dynamic and resilient travel destinations.
