Costa Rica continues to shine on the international tourist map, and Manuel Antonio and Quepos remain two of its most emblematic destinations.
However, the sector faces significant challenges and profound changes, as the Tico Times has recently documented in several of its articles, which address the country’s natural wonders as well as economic challenges and new opportunities for air connectivity.
Costa Rica’s beauty captured on video: inspiration for travelers
One of the most inspiring resources for those dreaming of visiting Costa Rica is the new 4K video highlighted by the Tico Times in “Costa Rica Shines Once Again in This High-Quality Travel Video“. This footage shows the essence of the country, from the coasts and rivers to the dense forests and secluded beaches. Slow aerial shots over the green canopy, animals in their natural environment and tranquil landscapes invite the viewer to contemplate Costa Rica’s natural richness.
What is special about this video is its slow pace and the absence of narration: it allows the environment to express itself, showing both popular and lesser-known corners of the country. For residents and tourists, it is a reminder that Costa Rica, and especially regions like Manuel Antonio and Quepos, still hold many secrets to be discovered. Images of monkeys in the treetops, waves crashing on the shore and the morning light over Costa Rican landscapes convey the tranquility and authenticity that modern travelers seek.
Economic challenges and the future of tourism in Costa Rica
But not everything is calm and beautiful; Costa Rican tourism is facing a complicated situation. The Tico Times, in its article “U.S. Tariffs Threaten to Deepen Costa Rica’s Tourism Slump”, analyzes how the imposition of tariffs by the United States could aggravate the already complicated situation of the sector. The new taxes make Costa Rican products more expensive and, according to experts such as Gerardo Corrales and Roxana Morales, this could lead U.S. tourists to postpone trips, look for cheaper destinations or reduce the length of their stays.
This concern is especially relevant for Manuel Antonio and Quepos, where 72.8% of international visitors come from North America, according to ICT data. Dependence on the U.S. market is high, and the combination of high local prices, an unfavorable exchange rate and economic uncertainty in the U.S. threatens to further reduce tourist inflows.
Canatur director, Shirley Calvo, warns that these measures affect the purchasing power of U.S. families, which could translate into fewer vacations and more conservative travel decisions. The Costa Rican tourism sector, which contributes up to 8% of the national GDP and is vital for rural employment, faces a high season full of uncertainty.
New air routes and connectivity: a glimmer of hope
Amid these challenges, there are positive signs. The Tico Times highlights in “Flying Around Costa Rica is Easier Than Ever Thanks to Sansa Airlines” how SANSA Airlines has expanded its fleet and routes, facilitating access to key destinations such as Quepos, Golfito, Tamarindo and La Fortuna. Travelers can now fly directly from San José to Quepos, saving time and avoiding long road trips. SANSA has also increased its flight frequency to international destinations such as Managua and Bocas del Toro, Panama, expanding options for those wishing to explore beyond Costa Rica’s borders.
On the other hand, in “Costa Rica Seeks New Air Routes Amid Decline in European Tourism”, the Tico Times reports on the ICT’s efforts to negotiate new routes with European cities such as Rome, Lisbon and Copenhagen, and the recent incorporation of direct flights from Canada with Porter Airlines. These initiatives seek to diversify the market and counteract the decline in European visitors, which has especially impacted tourist destinations such as Manuel Antonio and Quepos.
Although the ICT projects a slight recovery in the second half of 2025, the sector remains cautious, aware that global competition and economic factors will continue to influence the flow of tourists.
Manuel Antonio and Quepos: Nature, Culture and Adventure
Despite the challenges, Manuel Antonio and Quepos remain the heart of adventure in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio National Park, with its jungle trails, white sand beaches and abundant wildlife, is a magnet for travelers seeking authenticity and contact with nature. Quepos, meanwhile, offers vibrant local life, Costa Rican cuisine and access to activities such as mangroves, rafting and horseback riding.
At Epic Adventures Costa Rica, a local and family owned operator, we invite visitors to discover Manuel Antonio and Quepos through unique and personalized experiences. Our tours include guided tours of the national park, mangrove explorations, sea kayaking with snorkeling, tours to Corcovado, or Nauyaca Waterfalls, and several diverse ways for all tastes in the mangroves of Damas. Plus, of course, hiking tours like the Rainmaker. Each experience is designed to connect the traveler with the essence of the region, promoting sustainable tourism and community development.
Welcome to Manuel Antonio and Quepos: Your next great adventure in Costa Rica.
Amidst the natural beauty, the dynamism of local life and global challenges, Manuel Antonio and Quepos remain a favorite destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation and culture in Costa Rica. Epic Adventures Costa Rica welcomes you to experience the best of the region, with personalized attention and authentic tours that will allow you to discover every corner of this paradise.
Ready for your next adventure? Book your tour at epicadventurescr.com and come and discover why Manuel Antonio and Quepos are the vibrant heart of tourism in Costa Rica, recommended by travelers and various media.
References:
Times, T. (2025). U.S. Tariffs Threaten to Deepen Costa Rica’s Tourism Slump. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/08/10/u-s-tariffs-threaten-to-deepen-costa-ricas-tourism-slump [Accessed 11 Aug. 2025].
Times, T. (2025). Costa Rica Seeks New Air Routes Amid Decline in European Tourism. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/07/27/costa-rica-seeks-new-air-routes-amid-decline-in-european-tourism [Accessed 11 Aug. 2025].
Times, T. (2025). Costa Rica Shines Once Again in This High-Quality Travel Video. [online] The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate. Available at: https://ticotimes.net/2025/07/17/costa-rica-shines-once-again-in-this-high-quality-travel-video [Accessed 11 Aug. 2025].
