Growth in Costa Rica’s High Tourism Season

Costa Rica’s high tourism season, which began in late October and will continue through April, brings an influx of visitors eager to explore the country’s pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the renowned “pura vida” lifestyle. This peak period is essential for the tourism industry, contributing significantly to the local economy and showcasing Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly travel. As travelers increasingly seek unique, nature-centered experiences, Costa Rica’s appeal as an eco-tourism destination only continues to grow.

Expanded Access with New Air Routes

To accommodate the heightened demand, Costa Rica has launched seven new air routes for this high season, connecting the country to major cities in North and Latin America. Notably, Liberia Airport in Guanacaste now offers direct flights from U.S. cities like Philadelphia, Seattle, San Francisco, and Boston, operated by American, Alaska, and Delta Airlines. Meanwhile, Juan Santamaría International Airport has expanded its reach with new flights from São Paulo, Medellín, and Panama City, operated by Gol, Wingo, and Avianca, respectively. These additional routes make Costa Rica more accessible than ever, allowing nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers to experience the country’s natural wonders with ease.

Increased Passenger Capacity and Eco-Tourism Demand

With the introduction of new routes and the expected increase in visitor numbers, both Juan Santamaría and Liberia airports have projected significant growth for this high season. Juan Santamaría anticipates a 6.6% increase in passenger traffic compared to the previous year, translating to approximately 190,000 additional passengers. In Liberia, projections suggest that the airport will handle close to one million passengers in 2024, underscoring Guanacaste’s rising popularity as a hub for eco-tourism and adventure travel. This increased capacity aligns with Costa Rica’s commitment to responsible tourism and reflects the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences.

Commitment to a Seamless Visitor Experience

To ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for travelers, Costa Rican airport authorities have set ambitious goals to keep passenger processing times under one hour. This efficiency not only meets international standards but also enhances Costa Rica’s reputation as a traveler-friendly destination. Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of Aeris, highlights that these efforts reflect a coordinated approach between airport operators, government authorities, and airlines, aimed at providing visitors with a hassle-free entry into the country. Such measures are vital for delivering the high-quality, eco-friendly tourism experience that Costa Rica is known for, leaving a lasting positive impression on visitors.

Accessibility for All Travelers

Despite the significant improvements to infrastructure, recent challenges highlight the importance of inclusivity in Costa Rica’s tourism. A report from the Ombudsman’s Office revealed some accessibility shortcomings at Liberia Airport, particularly for travelers with disabilities. The incident, where a Canadian tourist in a wheelchair faced difficulties due to limited accessibility, underscored the need for adherence to accessibility standards outlined in Costa Rica’s Equal Opportunities Law (Law 7600) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

In response, César Jaramillo, General Manager of Guanacaste Airport, reiterated the airport’s commitment to providing accessible and comfortable services for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility. While some improvements have been made—such as accessible restrooms, ramps, and braille signage—Jaramillo acknowledged that ongoing efforts are required to ensure a fully inclusive experience for every traveler.

Elevating Costa Rica’s Tourism Impact

As Costa Rica welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists in the coming months, the country’s dedication to providing a high-quality, eco-friendly travel experience remains evident. With expanded air access, improved passenger handling times, and a focus on inclusivity, Costa Rica is well-positioned to continue its growth as a top eco-tourism destination. These efforts not only support the local economy but also strengthen Costa Rica’s reputation as a welcoming, sustainable destination for nature enthusiasts worldwide. Moving forward, Costa Rica’s tourism industry is set to play a vital role in promoting responsible travel that preserves the country’s natural beauty while creating meaningful connections with its visitors.

Empresa	Aeropuerto	Origen
American	Guanacaste	Filadelfia, EE.UU.
Alaska	Guanacaste	Seattle, EE.UU.
Alaska	Guanacaste	San Francisco, EE.UU.
Delta	Guanacaste	Boston, EE.UU.
Gol	Juan Santamaría	São Paulo, Brasil
Wingo	Juan Santamaría	Medellín, Colombia
Avianca	Juan Santamaría	Panamá, Panamá