Travelers around the world have named Costa Rica the number one country they hope to visit again, based on a new global study that highlights the nation’s draw for repeat trips. The ranking comes from SCS Chauffeurs, a company focused on luxury airport transfers, and appeared on the travel site Time Out. Researchers looked at over 8,000 online reviews and votes from people who rated places for experiences worth repeating.
Costa Rica earned 895 positive mentions, placing it ahead of strong competitors like Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom. The study points to the country’s mix of natural sites and welcoming atmosphere as key reasons for this loyalty. Time Out noted that Costa Rica appears on many 2026 travel lists. Popular paths include routes from San José through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tamarindo beaches, and Manuel Antonio National Park. These spots offer a range of activities that keep visitors coming back.
Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out, shared her recent trip to the southern area near San Vito. She called it a top spot for eco-adventures, far from busier northern routes. There, she found the true meaning of “pura vida,” the national phrase for a simple, pure way of life.
This ranking aligns with data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT). Records through 2025 show that about 30% of air arrivals have come to the country at least six times. That repeat rate stands out compared to other places worldwide. William RodrÃguez, the tourism minister, said the honor pushes the country to keep improving. He aims to update services and add fresh options so return visitors always find something new.
The full top 10 list includes:
- Costa Rica
- Italy
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- Portugal
- United Arab Emirates
- India
- New Zealand
- Ireland
- Iceland
Officials see this as a sign of Costa Rica’s strength in tourism, which supports jobs and local growth. With steady efforts to protect nature and build better facilities, the country plans to hold onto this spot.
