Domestic Tourism Thrives During Holy Week in Latin America
This year’s Holy Week has seen a surge in domestic tourism across Latin America, with millions of trips taken, high hotel occupancy rates, and significant increases in tourist spending. Emerging destinations focused on nature and wellness have become particularly popular, indicating a shifting trend in travel preferences.
Record-Breaking Hotel Occupancy and Tourist Spending
Preliminary statistics highlight the robust performance of tourism during this period. In Brazil, hotel occupancy is projected to reach 78%, thanks in part to popular destinations like the northern beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the breathtaking Iguazu Falls. The state of São Paulo anticipates revenues of around 505 million dollars, indicating strong economic contributions from tourists.
Mexico is also experiencing a boost in tourism, with expectations of 4.03 million visitors—2.6% more than in 2025. Hotel occupancy is forecasted at 63.85%, generating approximately 3.1 billion dollars in tourist expenditure. Notably, Mérida has emerged as a standout destination, marking an impressive 18.5% increase year-on-year.
The Rise of Domestic Travel
In Colombia, authorities predict the movement of over 12 million travelers, with an impressive growth of 7% in land transportation and 4% in air travel, underscoring domestic tourism as a significant growth driver. Meanwhile, Peru anticipates an economic impact ranging from 220 to 261 million dollars, with 1.9 million travelers reporting an average expenditure of 130 dollars—up 7.14% from the previous year.
Ecuador forecasts around 800,000 trips, corresponding to a 45% hotel occupancy rate, translating into an economic impact of 70 million dollars, compared to 54 million in 2025. Argentina’s tourism sector is similarly optimistic, particularly in Patagonia, where some destinations report occupancy levels approaching 87%.
Emerging Destinations and A Unique Experience
Beyond traditional hotspots, a notable trend is the emergence of new destinations and specialized tourism experiences. Wellness tourism in Mexico is projected to grow by 17% annually through 2028, while Ecuador and Costa Rica are seeing increased interest in nature-oriented tourism, such as Amazon and mountain excursions. In Brazil, established cultural and religious events, like the Passion of Christ in Nova Jerusalém, continue to attract large crowds, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in tourism.
Challenges Ahead for the Tourism Sector
Despite the promising statistics, challenges remain for the tourism sector. In Chile, rising fuel prices could lead to a potential 25% drop in hotel bookings, with projected occupancy rates at 56% in Valparaíso. Additionally, studies show that many travelers plan to reduce their spending, indicating a shift towards more austere and selective tourism.
In Bolivia, efforts are underway to enhance tourist inflows through structural reforms such as visa flexibility and international promotions.
Conclusion
This Holy Week has demonstrated a clear shift toward domestic tourism within Latin America, fueled by economic factors and emerging destinations. As countries navigate the complexities of travel behavior and industry challenges, the focus on nature, wellness, and unique cultural experiences is expected to continue shaping the region’s tourism landscape.