Quintana Roo, the Mexican state renowned for its stunning beach destinations like Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, shattered previous tourism records in 2023. The region experienced substantial growth in passenger traffic and visitor numbers, with Cancun International Airport managing a staggering 33.7 million passengers. The state, in turn, welcomed 21 million visitors, marking an 8% increment from the previous year.
Surge in Tourism Revenue and Hotel Occupancy
Tourism revenue in Quintana Roo rose by 12%, totaling US $21 billion, fueled by the significant increase in visitor numbers. Hotel occupancy rates in the region were notably high, with Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Isla Mujeres hitting 91.2%, 88.7%, and 91.1% respectively. With over 130,000 hotel rooms available, the state has emerged as a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists. The growth in vacation rentals is expected to further increase these numbers.
Boost in Cruise Tourism and Airport Activity
Quintana Roo also saw an influx of 6.1 million cruise passengers in 2023. Cancun airport, the primary international entry point for tourists visiting Mexico, was bustling with activity, averaging 540 to 600 daily flights in December, with a peak of 701 flights on December 30. The airport now offers direct flights to 114 cities globally, further bolstering the tourism industry and economy.
Infrastructure Investments and Future Growth
The local government, recognizing 2023 as a successful year for tourism, has planned substantial infrastructure investments. These include a US $1.4 billion update to the Cancun airport to be implemented over five years. Additionally, the recent opening of the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport in Tulum is aimed at alleviating congestion at Cancun airport. These initiatives are expected to further strengthen Quintana Roo’s position as a top-level tourism destination. (https://bnnbreaking.com/world/mexico/quintana-roo-shatters-tourism-records-in-2023/)
