The number of international arrivals in Costa Rica increased by 4.4 percent during the first half of 2015. According to data released by the Immigration Administration, 41,698 more international travelers to Costa Rica arrived by air this year, culminating in a total of 987,801 arrivals during the six-month period. The increase in arrivals resulted in $1.6 billion in tourism revenue, approximately $161 million more than the first half of the previous year.
The country’s primary air terminal is Juan Santamaría International Airport, located just outside San Jose. Surprisingly, that airport was not the source of the largest number of arrivals. Taking that honor was Daniel Oduber International Airport, located in Liberia, Guanacaste, representing a 3.2 percent increase.
According to Mauricio Ventura, Costa Rica’s tourism minister, the increase in arrivals reflects a positive outcome by airlines as well as new routes. Promotional strategies abroad have also resulted in an increase in the number of air travelers.
Recent reports indicate that the United States remains the single largest source of visitors to Costa Rica. Even so, Mexico recorded the highest percentage of growth during the last six months. Overall, the number of travelers from Mexico entering Costa Rica on a tourist visa increased by a total of 9 percent. The number of travelers on a tourist visa from the United States increased by about 4 percent. Canada ranked third with a growth rate of 1.7 percent.
European markets also displayed strong increases with a growth rate of 15.5 percent for the UK, 8.9 percent for Germany, and 8.3 percent for France. Tourism officials expect numbers from the UK to show increases following an announcement of the availability of direct flights from London to San Jose.
In addition to more travelers, reports show that travelers are also spending more money. On average, travelers entering Costa Rica via SJO spend $1,635 while in Costa Rica. Those travelers entering Guanacaste spend about $800 while in the country. Travelers spend an average of about 12 nights during their visits to Costa Rica, reflecting one of the highest figures in global travel.
