Panama recorded 3,004,266 international visitors in 2025. That total marks an 8.2 percent rise from the year before, according to figures released by the Panama Tourism Authority. Air arrivals at Tocumen International Airport led the gains, reaching 2,244,078 travelers for a 10 percent increase. Cruise ports handled 344,408 passengers, up 11.5 percent.
The Paso Canoas border crossing with Costa Rica saw 106,006 visitors, a 2.9 percent gain. Overnight stays climbed to 2,330,677, an 11 percent jump. Tourism revenue hit $6.583 billion, excluding international transport, for a 9.7 percent increase.
Panama Tourism Authority administrator Gloria De León stated the results show the country building strength as a regional destination through better promotion, air links, and varied offerings. Visitors stayed longer and spent more, she added.
Costa Rica’s air arrivals totaled 2,689,278 last year, up just 1 percent from 2,661,488 in 2024, per data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. The modest rise left the country trailing several neighbors. Colombia posted 4 percent growth, the Dominican Republic 5 percent, Mexico 6 percent, and Guatemala 10 percent. Global tourism expanded near 5 percent over the same period.
The National Chamber of Tourism pointed to a stronger colón that raised costs for visitors, along with infrastructure limits and safety questions, as factors in the slower pace. South American arrivals grew 14.5 percent and helped offset weaker numbers from Europe, which fell 2.1 percent. North America, the top source market, sent nearly two million visitors but grew only 0.5 percent from the United States.
The Paso Canoas numbers highlight ongoing land travel between the two countries. Travelers crossing from Costa Rica into Panama added to Panama’s total without a major shift in patterns.
In response, Costa Rica’s tourism chamber rolled out a national strategy aimed at 5.2 million annual visitors by 2035. The plan projects revenue above $11 billion and nearly 300,000 jobs. It calls for upgrades at national parks, a dedicated government tourism group, stronger focus on local food and drink, and expanded growth into rural, coastal, and border areas.
Panama’s gains add pressure on Costa Rica to sharpen its position in a crowded Central American market. Officials here now focus on price balance, product quality, and infrastructure to hold ground. Panama just passed 3 million international visitors in 2025 – an 8.2% increase – while Costa Rica managed only 1% growth. The numbers show rising competition next door. See the full breakdown and Costa Rica’s new strategy to stay competitive. Read more here.
