Tourism in Costa Rica persists in its decline, as the nation reports a diminished influx of visitors for the sixth straight month, according to recent data from the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT). In February 2025, 270,810 tourists arrived in the country, reflecting a 7% decline compared to the same month in 2024, as reported by the ICT. This amount does not reach the two historical peaks for February—2020, immediately prior to pandemic-induced border closures, and 2024. The ICT monitors tourism activities exclusively by flight arrivals.
In February 2025, North America and Europe, the two principal sources of tourism to Costa Rica, saw substantial reductions. The United States recorded 150,320 arrivals, a decrease of 7.3% from February 2024. Canada recorded 37,975 visitors, reflecting a 5.8% decline, and Mexico noted 6,351 tourists, indicating a 12.4% reduction. These countries collectively had a year-over-year decrease of 7.2%.
Europe experienced a significant decline, with a total reduction of 11.4% in arrivals. Major European markets had double-digit reductions, although exact data were not included in the ICT report. South America was the sole region to exhibit growth in visitor numbers, however specific data was not disclosed.
Tourism Minister William Rodríguez minimized the decline as a source of concern but recognized that it necessitates intervention. “Concerns are warranted, and we are taking action,” he stated. “We are executing a series of initiatives that we believe will facilitate our recovery.”
Congressman Eli Feinzaig of the Progressive Liberal Party blasted Rodríguez for what he saw a tardy response. “The minister has ultimately acknowledged the issue of declining tourist arrivals in Costa Rica; however, unable to attribute the cause to the Legislative Assembly, he redirects responsibility towards the airlines,” stated Feinzaig.
Feinzaig ascribed the decline to two primary factors: the colón’s appreciation against the dollar, rendering Costa Rica more costly for international tourists, and a persistent security situation that has diminished the nation’s attractiveness as a holiday locale.
