From the vibrant depths of the jungle to the sun-soaked Pacific and Caribbean beaches, Costa Rica continues to capture global hearts. Most recently, the country has been heavily lauded by four of Spain’s most influential media outlets: the prestigious national newspaper El País, luxury lifestyle mainstays Elle and Travel & Leisure, and the widely read daily La Razón.

The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) recently highlighted these major editorial features, emphasizing their powerful impact and immense influence on high-value European travelers.

“These features allow us to reach ideal prospects looking for unique, transformative experiences,” noted an ICT representative. “These are nature-loving travelers who deeply value sustainable destinations, stay longer during their visits, and generate a greater economic impact directly within the local communities they explore.”

A Rising Wave of European Travelers

The numbers firmly support this media momentum. According to official ICT data gathered during the first five months of 2026, 20,178 Spanish tourists arrived in Costa Rica by air. This marks a substantial 15.3% increase compared to the exact same period in 2025.

Currently, Spain stands strong as the fourth-largest source market for European travelers heading to Costa Rica, outpaced only by Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.

“These strategic editorial spaces allow us to consistently project Costa Rica as an authentic, sustainable, and transformative haven to the Spanish market,” explained Angélica Herra, the ICT’s European Market Coordinator.

Unlocking the “Secret South”

Among the spotlighted publications, a standout piece appeared in the famous El Viajero (The Traveler) travel section of El País. Titled “Rumbo al sur secreto de Costa Rica” (Heading to the Secret South of Costa Rica), the feature explicitly guides travelers away from traditional routes and down toward the pristine southern zone.

The piece encourages a deep exploration of the cantons of Golfito and Coto Brus, highlighting the untouched biodiversity of Piedras Blancas National Park and the legendary surf breaks and laid-back magic of Pavones beach.

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