Costa Rica Tourism Surges: Record-Breaking Start to 2026

Costa Rica tourism hits a new high in 2026 with a 10.4% rise in visitors. Discover stats on arrivals from the US, Canada, and Europe in this travel report.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 5:48 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

By the Numbers: A Strong Start to the Year

Official data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) reveals a significant upward trend for the beginning of 2026.

Total International Arrivals: 653,959 visitors entered in January and February combined (+10.4% vs. 2025).

February Growth: 331,967 arrivals were recorded in February alone.

Air Travel Dominance: 602,960 visitors arrived by air, representing a 12.2% increase year-over-year.

Primary Source Markets