International visitors filled Costa Rica’s airports in early 2026, signaling a solid launch to the winter season. Both San Jose and Liberia Airports reported high traffic from North America and Europe. Tourism officials noted this uptick follows a year of modest growth, with arrivals up just 1% in 2025 compared to sharper increases in neighboring countries like Mexico and Guatemala.
Health authorities issued warnings about chikungunya outbreaks in Puntarenas province. The Ministry of Health confirmed two cases in Esparza by late January, prompting calls for mosquito repellent use and avoidance of high-risk areas. Officials stressed that most tourist zones remain unaffected, but travelers should check updates before heading to coastal spots.
The country gained needed attention from global media. The Osa Peninsula ranked high on 2026 travel lists from outlets like the New York Times, BBC, and Forbes. Writers waxed poetic about its dense rainforests, wildlife, and low crowds. Corcovado National Park and Isla del Caño drew mentions for hiking and snorkeling. Nosara stood out for surfing and natural settings. These nods build on Costa Rica’s role in adventure and wellness travel.
Voters elected Laura Fernández as president this past week. She won in the first round with a platform focused on crime reduction, inspired by El Salvador’s approach. Fernández plans to build secure prisons and boost police presence. This comes as security concerns rise, with the U.S. State Department advising increased caution due to robberies and assaults. Local business owners hope her policies stabilize areas key to tourism, like beaches and national parks.
Hotel chains expanded their footprint. Marriott and Hilton announced new properties set to open in 2026, adding rooms in Guanacaste and the Central Valley. These developments target business and leisure travelers, strengthening the sector’s capacity. Airlines added routes too. Spirit Airlines starts flights from Miami to Juan Santamaría in March, and WestJet connects Vancouver to Guanacaste. Such links aim to draw more Canadians and Americans, who make up the bulk of visitors.
Costa Rica leads efforts for the 2027 International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism. As chair, our country hosts planning sessions to promote biodiversity and community-based projects. Minister of Tourism William Rodríguez López highlighted the nation’s model, which protects over 25% of its land. Initiatives include English language programs for youth, opening doors to jobs in hospitality and tech.
Weather patterns shaped early February visits as well. Two cold fronts brought wind and rain to the Central Valley and Caribbean coast, with lower temperatures in highlands. Forecasters predict clearer skies by mid-month, ideal for outdoor activities. Tour operators adjusted itineraries, steering groups to drier Pacific regions.
Tourism still faces hurdles from a strong colón and higher costs, which slowed 2025 recovery. Competitors offered cheaper options, pulling budget travelers away. Yet officials project growth in 2026 through targeted marketing. Solo travelers and eco-enthusiasts find appeal in the country’s trails, hot springs, and reserves.
Business leaders call for infrastructure upgrades. Roads to remote sites need repairs, and airports seek expansions to handle crowds. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute lists certified guides to ensure safe experiences. Visitors can explore options on official sites for tailored trips.
Costa Rica’s draw lies in its mix of nature and culture. From Monteverde’s cloud forests to Limón’s Caribbean vibes, our country offers varied escapes. As the season progresses, interested parties watch how health measures and security steps play out. For now, the early surge provides a base for steady progress. (https://ticotimes.net/2026/02/04/tourism-in-costa-rica-starts-2026-strong-despite-health-and-security-challenges)
