Tourism trends shift toward experiential travel in Latin America

Tourism trends in Latin America and the Caribbean are shifting toward experiential travel and enhanced air connectivity. According to the Mastercard Economics Institute, travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer a combination of culture, gastronomy, nature, and adventure within a single trip.

Panama has seen significant growth, receiving 1,755,998 international visitors in the first half of 2026, a 17.4% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Tourism revenue in 2025 reached US$ 6.583 billion. Panama City is currently leading the growth in air capacity for the northern hemisphere summer season among routes originating in Latin America.

Data from COCHA Travel Insights highlights a surge in bookings for destinations that offer unique personal narratives. Curacao reported a 204.5% increase in reservations between January and July 2026 compared to the previous year. Other notable increases in bookings were seen in Buenos Aires (34.6%), Rio de Janeiro (19.8%), Madrid (8.8%), and Rapa Nui (6.8%).