# Tourism trends in the Americas

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tourism-trends-in-the-americas
> Updated: 2026-10-16T17:02:33.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 3.

Tourism trends in the Americas have shown divergent patterns. While the Dominican Republic reported record growth, reaching 8.55 million visitors in the first eight months of the year—a 6.9% increase over 2025—other regions faced fluctuations.

In the United States, international tourism saw a notable decline, with August arrivals falling 11.8% compared to the previous year. This followed a 7% drop in July, signaling a worsening trend for the U.S. travel sector. Significant decreases were observed in arrivals from Africa (25.5%), Central America (20.6%), and Western Europe (14.8%). Experts have attributed these declines to rising airfares, inflation, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, currency appreciation, and local security concerns.

Costa Rica’s tourism sector has experienced shifting momentum. Following a period of decline, including a 13.7% drop in visitors from the United States in August, the country reported a 4.8% increase in international arrivals during the first nine months of 2026, totaling 2,310,320 visitors. North American markets remain the primary drivers, accounting for approximately 66% of all arrivals. The United States remains the largest source market, contributing 1,288,001 tourists, while Canada saw a significant 24.6% increase compared to the previous year.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-16: Costa Rica tourism rises as US and Canada lead arrivals

Costa Rica saw a 4.8% rise in tourism during the first nine months of 2026, with the US and Canada accounting for 66% of all arrivals.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/costa-rica-tourism-rises-as-us-and-canada-lead-arrivals

### 2026-09-19: International tourism arrivals decline in the U.S. and Costa Rica

International tourism is facing a downturn, with U.S. arrivals dropping 11.8% in August and Costa Rican visitor numbers from the U.S. falling 13.7% due to inflation and rising travel costs.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-tourism-arrivals-decline-in-the-us-and-costa-rica

### 2026-09-16: Tourism trends show growth in Dominican Republic and seasonal decline in Costa Rica

The Dominican Republic recorded a record 8.55 million visitors through August, while Costa Rica saw a 5% seasonal dip in August despite overall yearly growth.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tourism-trends-show-growth-in-dominican-republic-and-seasonal-decline-in-costa-rica

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Cite as: Tourism trends in the Americas. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tourism-trends-in-the-americas