Because the excessive season progresses, Costa Rica is going through a rising disaster: so is its nationwide foreign money – the colón rose towards the US greenback, making journey more and more costly for vacationers and placing stress on native inns and tour operators.
Greenback hits 20-year low – and that is unhealthy information for guests
On December 6, 2025, the Central Financial institution of Costa Rica reported that the greenback trade fee stood at ₡488–₡490 – the weakest stage since 2005. Over the previous three years, the colon has appreciated by virtually 27%, from ranges above ₡640 per greenback in mid-2022.
For vacationers from the US or Europe, this implies each greenback is purchased a lot much less colones – growing native foreign money prices for lodging, meals, excursions and transportation. A lodge keep or jungle tour booked in Colones can now really feel considerably costlier when transformed again into {dollars} or euros.
Native business expresses concern – and warns of penalties
The foreign money disaster doesn’t solely have an effect on vacationers. In accordance with the nation’s foremost tourism group, CANATUR, many tourism companies are micro, small or medium-sized enterprises and are feeling the stress. “This creates a monetary hole that threatens stability,” mentioned CANATUR’s Government Director Shirley Calvo.
As a result of working prices – worker wages, utilities, upkeep, provides – are paid in colones whereas revenues are available {dollars}, the margin squeeze is extreme. The consequence? Some operators are elevating costs, others will reduce their companies, and a few may even shut altogether if the scenario continues.
The lodge sector shares the issues. The Costa Rican Chamber of Motels says the collapse in charges is hitting margins at a essential time – simply when demand sometimes peaks for seashores, nationwide parks and leisure journey.
Costa Rica loses its worth benefit: vacationers look elsewhere
Journey business analysts warn that Costa Rica is shedding its aggressive benefit towards regional rivals corresponding to Mexico, Panama, Colombia or the Dominican Republic – the place trade fee situations stay extra favorable.
Some early indicators are already seen: the variety of air arrivals between January and August 2025 fell by 2.1% in comparison with 2024. For American vacationers – who make up a big share of holiday makers – hesitation and shrinking buying energy are cited as the primary causes.
What it means for the 2025-2026 journey season
As a result of the colón is more likely to stay robust until there are adjustments in financial coverage, vacationers all through Costa Rica can anticipate greater costs, even in comparison with earlier “costly” seasons. For those who’re a traveler: price range extra, e-book forward, take note of trade charges – or think about different locations in Central America or the Caribbean.
For tour operators and hoteliers, the message is pressing, with many calling on authorities to contemplate coverage measures to ease burdens and safeguard a sector that helps hundreds of jobs, from San José to coastal and rainforest areas