Published on Thursday, May 22, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica’s hotel industry is set to expand significantly over the next months, with 26 new hotel projects expected to launch between 2025 and 2026, according to the latest figures from the Tourism Institute (ICT).

Developers are projected to invest more than $726 million into the sector, a move that the ICT estimates will generate approximately 3,400 new jobs.

All 26 hotel projects have secured a Tourism Declaration and are anticipated to contribute roughly 1,450 new rooms to the country’s hospitality capacity.

“Our country has positioned itself as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment thanks to key factors such as increased air connectivity, a high level of education, a strong commitment to sustainability as a central pillar of our tourism model, a skilled workforce, political and economic stability, and a tourism offering that is constantly innovating,” said William Rodríguez, president of the ICT.

The new developments will be distributed across various regions, enhancing the national tourism portfolio with a mix of boutique, city, and beachfront hotels. The expansion includes the potential entry of prominent international hotel chains catering to the luxury segment.

Among the brands set to establish or expand their presence in Costa Rica are Six Senses Resort, St. Regis Papagayo, Mountain Top Adventure, Residence Inn by Marriott, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Hyatt Place, and Holiday Inn.

Recently, the first Waldorf Astoria luxury hotel brand in the country was inaugurated on Penca Beach in Guanacaste.

Tourism remains one of Costa Rica’s most important economic sectors. In 2024, the country welcomed more than 2.6 million visitors by air, a 7% increase compared to the previous year.

Tourism also generated more than $5.4 billion in foreign exchange revenue in 2024, according to data from the Central Bank of Costa Rica.

ICT is the government agency responsible for promoting tourism and continues to support infrastructure improvements to accommodate growing international interest.

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