Costa Rica continues to prove why it remains one of the most attractive destinations in Latin America for tourism, lifestyle relocation, and real estate investment.
During the first four months of 2026, Costa Rica registered 1,195,271 international arrivals by air, according to data from the Costa Rican Tourism Board. This represents a 10.5% increase compared to the same period in 2025, marking a historic result for the first four months of the year.
For the real estate market, this growth is more than a tourism statistic. It is a strong indicator of international demand, improved connectivity, and rising confidence in Costa Rica as a destination for travel, second homes, retirement, vacation rentals, and long-term investment.
A Historic Start for Costa Rica's Tourism Sector
The first four months of 2026 delivered double-digit growth in international air arrivals, confirming the country's continued momentum as a global travel destination.
According to the Costa Rican Tourism Board, the increase was driven by strong performance from key international markets, expanding air routes, and sustained interest from travelers looking for nature, wellness, beaches, adventure, and high-quality lifestyle experiences.
The ICT projects that Costa Rica could close 2026 with approximately 2.7 million tourists, based on the strong numbers recorded at the beginning of the year.
This positive outlook reinforces Costa Rica's position as one of the most resilient and desirable destinations in the region.
Guanacaste Airport Leads With Strong Growth
One of the most important highlights for investors is the performance of the Guanacaste International Airport, located in Liberia.
During the first four months of 2026, the airport reported a 14.9% increase in international arrivals, outperforming the national average. Meanwhile, Juan Santamaría International Airport also showed positive growth, with a 7.9% increase in tourist arrivals.
This is especially relevant for the real estate market because Guanacaste is one of Costa Rica's strongest regions for luxury homes, beach properties, vacation rentals, gated communities, development land, and lifestyle investment.
Improved air connectivity into Liberia makes it easier for international buyers to access key destinations such as:
- Tamarindo
- Playa Avellanas
- Hacienda Pinilla
- Playa Flamingo
- Potrero
- Las Catalinas
- Reserva Conchal
- Peninsula Papagayo
- Nosara
- Playa Grande
For buyers and investors, accessibility is one of the most important factors in real estate value. The easier it is to reach a destination, the stronger its long-term appeal becomes.
What This Means for Real Estate Investment in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's tourism growth sends a clear message to investors: demand for the country remains strong, and international interest continues to expand.
This is especially important in areas where tourism, lifestyle, and real estate naturally intersect. Guanacaste is one of the best examples.
The region offers a rare combination of international airport access, world-class beaches, luxury communities, surf towns, golf courses, wellness retreats, private schools, restaurants, and strong vacation rental potential.
For real estate investors, the growth in air arrivals may support several key opportunities:
1. Stronger Vacation Rental Demand
More visitors can increase demand for well-located rental properties, especially in beach towns and gated communities near high-demand tourist areas.
2. Increased Interest From International Buyers
Travel often comes before investment. Many buyers first discover Costa Rica as tourists before deciding to purchase a second home, retirement property, or income-generating asset.
3. Greater Value in Accessible Coastal Markets
Markets close to Guanacaste International Airport may become increasingly attractive as air connectivity improves.
4. More Opportunities for Developers
Tourism growth can create demand for boutique hotels, mixed-use projects, residential communities, and wellness-focused developments.
5. Long-Term Confidence in Costa Rica
Consistent tourism growth supports investor confidence and reinforces Costa Rica's image as a stable, desirable, and internationally recognized destination.
We believe that Costa Rica's tourism performance is one of the strongest indicators of the country's real estate potential.
When more international visitors arrive, more people experience the lifestyle that makes Costa Rica unique: natural beauty, safety, wellness, beaches, biodiversity, and the possibility of owning property in one of the most attractive destinations in the region.
The 10.5% growth in air tourism during the first four months of 2026 is not just a positive number. It reflects momentum, confidence, and opportunity.
For investors, this is the time to pay attention to well-positioned properties in high-growth areas, especially in Guanacaste, where airport access and luxury demand continue to strengthen the market.
With more than 1.1 million air arrivals in just four months, strong growth from North America, a major increase from Canada, and outstanding performance from Guanacaste Airport, the outlook for tourism and real estate investment remains highly positive.
As tourism continues to rise, properties in strategic coastal locations may become increasingly valuable, especially those connected to lifestyle, luxury, rental income, and long-term appreciation.
Explore real estate investment opportunities in Costa Rica with us and discover why Guanacaste continues to lead the way as one of the country's most desirable regions for luxury living and investment.
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