Argentina's tourism sector sees weak hotel occupancy despite event-driven boosts

In Catamarca province, hotel occupancy fell to around 45% over the recent long weekend, with some locations such as El Bolsón recording only 10% fill rates. Industry officials said events like sports competitions helped the capital exceed 30% occupancy, noting that "events saved the capital".

Private sector representatives warned that reduced consumer purchasing power and cautious reservation levels ahead of the upcoming Fiesta Nacional e Internacional del Poncho keep the recovery uneven. They also highlighted concerns over informal lodging providers that compete without meeting regulatory standards.

Meanwhile, in Resistencia, Chaco, bar and restaurant owners launched special promotions and installed giant screens to attract patrons during Argentina's World Cup matches. The hospitality association cited the same low occupancy challenges and urged regulation of short‑term rentals, which they say undercut hotels that must bear higher taxes and operating costs.