In the first quarter of this year, 787 thousand tourists visited Panama, which exceeds 2022 and before Covid-19.
Ivan Eskildsen, the General Administrator of the Panama Tourism Authority, reported that from January to March, arrivals to Panama increased by 84% compared to 2022. Eskildsen attributes this growth to events and conventions, the fastest contributors to the tourism industry's recovery.
He stressed the success of the Amador Convention Center in the capital, which welcomed over 96,000 visitors in 2022. He mentioned that the center expects to host 136,000 visitors by the end of this year. This proves the growing popularity of conferences, meetings, and events in the area.
Panama's tourism generated $614 million in income in the first quarter of this year. This number is anticipated to increase to $1.8 billion by the end of the year. The most prominent source markets are Argentina, the United States, and Brazil. Additionally, it is worth noting that visitors from the United States, Germany, France, and Spain have prolonged their stays in the Canal Country.
Panama City and Taboga Island, Bocas del Toro, and Riviera Pacifica islands are among the most popular destinations for foreign tourists. Visitors also enjoy visiting Boquete and Tierras Altas in Chiriqui and Santa Isabel in the province of Colo.