Various organizations, such as the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), have highlighted the growth of tourism in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic years, recording an 80% growth internationally. This has allowed experts to declare that tourists are changing their habits and are increasingly focused on enjoying their trips, even if they are short and local.
Tourism in Latin America offers more opportunities to its visitors each year, thanks to the natural and cultural wealth that makes the region an ideal place to learn and enjoy. In 2023, one country led the statistics in the region, surpassing powers such as Colombia and Brazil: Mexico, which also reached sixth place worldwide.
In 2023 alone, it was visited by 42.2 million international tourists, which helped it become the second-strongest economy on the continent. Its paradisiacal beaches, pre-Columbian towns, festivals, and beautiful landscapes have earned it worldwide recognition, making it a highly desired destination for creating unforgettable memories.
The country’s ability to attract tourists is undeniable, with its delicious and colorful cuisine as one of its strongest assets. In addition, its rich culture and historical elements have helped Mexico stand out and be heard around the globe.
The UNWTO reported that Mexico experienced a 6.1% increase in the number of international tourists in September 2023 compared to the same month in 2022. This growth occurred despite the economic challenges facing the sector, which Mexico has skillfully managed and used to its advantage.
Mexico has taken steps to ensure the safety of its travelers, addressing the region’s high levels of crime and delinquency. Additionally, the country has worked to improve infrastructure and promote lesser-visited areas, boosting local commerce, which cannot be overlooked.
Reasons to Visit Mexico
Mexico’s renowned cuisine, historical past, cultural richness, exceptional climate, and geographic location make it one of the best Latin American countries for tourism. These features make it an attractive and special place to visit with friends or family.
The Latin American country ranks sixth worldwide in the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, in the categories of cultural heritage, natural heritage, and mixed heritage. This is further evidence of the wealth it offers not only to tourists but also to its inhabitants.
The center of the Mexican Republic is a cultural and architectural treasure, home to some of the country’s most charming colonial cities, such as Guanajuato, Morelia, Querétaro, Puebla, San Miguel Allende, and Taxco, offering rich and unforgettable experiences to those who visit them.
In each of these cities, visitors can feel the history and colonial legacy of Mexico. Moreover, they offer countless activities and cultural festivals, where the past and present are intertwined in a unique and special way.
The so-called «Pueblos Mágicos» (Magical Towns) cannot be overlooked. These are ancient towns where the residents have worked over the years to preserve and pass on their cultural heritage from generation to generation, keeping their traditions and customs alive.
The 9,000 kilometers of coastline also cannot be ignored. Mexico’s world-famous beaches of singular beauty captivate visitors, often making them want to extend their stay. Acapulco, Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta are some of the most visited.
Ranking of the Most Visited Countries in Latin America in 2023
The UNWTO has a ranking of the most visited countries in Latin America in 2023:
- Mexico: 38.33 million tourists.
- Dominican Republic: 7.16 million tourists.
- Colombia: 4.40 million tourists.
- Argentina: 3.89 million tourists.
- Brazil: 3.63 million tourists.
- Jamaica: 2.48 million tourists.
- Uruguay: 2.43 million tourists.
- Costa Rica: 2.35 million tourists.
- Chile: 2.03 million tourists.
- Peru: 2.01 million tourists.
This list not only takes into account the number of international travelers received that year but also reflects the diversity and cultural, natural, and gastronomic appeal of each Latin American country.
Two Latin American Countries Among the Best to Visit in 2024
Lonely Planet, one of the largest travel guide publishers, highlighted that two countries from the region are among the best to visit in 2024, placing them on a list alongside destinations from around the world. These countries are Chile and Mexico.
Chile takes the fourth position on the global list. Its shape and location make it a country with climatic and geographical contrasts that cater to all tastes. On one side are the Andes Mountains and cities along the Pacific Ocean, while on the other is the Atacama Desert, the driest and most barren place on Earth, considered one of the best sites for stargazing and astronomy due to its clear skies.
Meanwhile, Mexico, as mentioned earlier, offers a diverse experience, with the latest addition being the Maya Train. This train allows travelers to explore the ruins of Chichén Itzá and the reefs of Puerto Morelos, opening the door to learning more about the country’s history.
The complete Lonely Planet list is as follows:
- Mongolia
- India
- Morocco
- Chile
- Benin
- Mexico
- Uzbekistan
- Pakistan
- Croatia
- Saint Lucia
Each of these countries, regardless of location, has potential and resources to exploit in the tourism sector, which could generate highly significant and positive dividends for their economies.
How Has Tourism in Mexico Performed in 2024?
In 2024, Mexico saw an annual increase in the number of border tourists, which rose by 10.1%, reaching 1.33 million compared to 1.21 million in the same month in 2023. Meanwhile, those who traveled by air in May grew by 3.4% year-over-year, surpassing 1.78 million people.
In general, 3.41 million tourists entered Mexico in May, compared to 3.25 million in the same month the previous year, indicating that more and more travelers are interested in visiting the Aztec country.
Undoubtedly, the upward trend in the sector is not being held back by the challenges the country faces, such as political changes. The local population, which is part of this trend, will continue to reap the benefits of their participation as they elevate the country’s wealth.
