Nicaragua records 2.1% growth in tourist arrivals and aims to surpass one million in 2026

Nicaragua has recorded a 2.1% increase in tourist arrivals during the first eight months of 2026 compared to the same period the previous year, as the tourism sector prepares for the year-end peak season, reported Anasha Campbell, Co-director of the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism (INTUR), on the program Estudio TN8.

According to data shared by Campbell, more than 621,000 tourists entered the country between January and August, reflecting the increase recorded relative to 2025.

"So far in 2026—from January to August—the figures reflect a 2.1% increase compared to the same period in 2025. That is to say, more than 621,000 tourists have already entered the country" she explained.

This trend is also reflected in foreign currency earnings. During the first quarter of 2026, tourism contributed $159 million to the national economy, a figure representing a 40% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

Positive outlook for the end of the year

Regarding average daily spending, Campbell noted a slight increase, placing the figure at $47, while the average length of stay was 8.9 days.

The official indicated that the tourism industry's main season is still to come; therefore, expectations for the end of the year remain tied to the trends observed in recent months.

"We obviously expect to surpass last year's figures. I believe we would expect an increase of—well, really between 2% and 5%—because the main part is still to come: the end-of-year season" Campbell noted.


The expectation is that Nicaragua will surpass the one-million-tourist mark in 2026.

High season and international promotion

According to Campbell, the sector's high season begins around November 15 and extends beyond New Year's—a period featuring a significant number of activities that can boost tourism.

Among these, she cited the Marian celebrations, La Gritería, Christmas festivities, and various recreational, sporting, and culinary events, as well as festivals scheduled for the final months of the year.

In addition, Nicaragua will participate in more than eight international trade fairs during the remainder of 2026 and will showcase the destination in various Central American countries.

"We will also be in Panama and Costa Rica to present Nicaragua as a destination and highlight the offers our country has for the end of the year, with the aim of attracting more tourists" she explained.

Campbell added that digital campaigns targeting North America, Latin America, and Central America are also being rolled out as part of the country's international promotion strategy.

International Markets and New Opportunities for Nicaragua

The United States remains one of the primary source markets for tourists visiting Nicaragua, followed by countries in the Central American region, while Europe accounts for approximately 8% to 10% of visitors, according to data shared during the interview.

Campbell also highlighted the interest in boosting tourist arrivals from Canada—a market where Nicaragua has participated in trade fairs held in Montreal, Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary.

“I believe Canada is a very interesting market” stated the INTUR co-director, who also mentioned the expectation that charter flights from the previous season would return.

Promotional efforts are also being carried out regionally through a strategy positioning Central America as a multi-destination region, particularly to attract visitors from long-haul markets.

In this regard, Campbell explained that long-haul travelers often seek to visit multiple countries during a single trip; therefore, Central America’s joint offering allows for the creation of packages that include two or three destinations.

Accolades Boosting Nicaragua’s Profile

The growth in visitor numbers complements various international accolades that have recently showcased Nicaraguan destinations and tourism businesses on specialized platforms.

Among these, Campbell highlighted the inclusion of Granada in Lonely Planet’s list of 50 destinations recommended for a visit in 2027.

She also mentioned the recognition awarded to Morgan’s Rock in San Juan del Sur, which received a Michelin Key—becoming, as noted during the interview, the first hotel in Nicaragua to earn this distinction.

For Campbell, these accolades are part of a joint effort between the public sector and tourism entrepreneurs to strengthen Nicaragua’s presence in the international market.

“Standing out in these various events, activities, and awards obviously positions Nicaragua as a destination on the international stage” she stated.

Source: TN8