In 2024, the number of international tourist arrivals in Ecuador declined from over *** million recorded in the previous year. Right before the COVID-19 pandemic, international tourism in the South American country had peaked at more than *** million arrivals.

Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Number of Arrivals data was reported at 1,418,000.000 Person in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,544,000.000 Person for 2015. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Number of Arrivals data is updated yearly, averaging 850,500.000 Person from Dec 1995 (Median) to 2016, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,557,000.000 Person in 2014 and a record low of 440,000.000 Person in 1995. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Number of Arrivals data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Ecuador – Table EC.World Bank.WDI: Tourism Statistics. International inbound tourists (overnight visitors) are the number of tourists who travel to a country other than that in which they have their usual residence, but outside their usual environment, for a period not exceeding 12 months and whose main purpose in visiting is other than an activity remunerated from within the country visited. When data on number of tourists are not available, the number of visitors, which includes tourists, same-day visitors, cruise passengers, and crew members, is shown instead. Sources and collection methods for arrivals differ across countries. In some cases data are from border statistics (police, immigration, and the like) and supplemented by border surveys. In other cases data are from tourism accommodation establishments. For some countries number of arrivals is limited to arrivals by air and for others to arrivals staying in hotels. Some countries include arrivals of nationals residing abroad while others do not. Caution should thus be used in comparing arrivals across countries. The data on inbound tourists refer to the number of arrivals, not to the number of people traveling. Thus a person who makes several trips to a country during a given period is counted each time as a new arrival.; ; World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.; Gap-filled total;

The United States accounted for over ** percent of the international tourism volume in Ecuador in 2024. Meanwhile, Colombia was the second most popular nationality among foreign visitors in the Latin American country that year.

Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Receipts: for Travel Items data was reported at 1.443 USD bn in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.551 USD bn for 2015. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Receipts: for Travel Items data is updated yearly, averaging 488.000 USD mn from Dec 1995 (Median) to 2016, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.551 USD bn in 2015 and a record low of 255.000 USD mn in 1995. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Receipts: for Travel Items data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Ecuador – Table EC.World Bank.WDI: Tourism Statistics. International tourism receipts for travel items are expenditures by international inbound visitors in the reporting economy. The goods and services are purchased by, or on behalf of, the traveler or provided, without a quid pro quo, for the traveler to use or give away. These receipts should include any other prepayment made for goods or services received in the destination country. They also may include receipts from same-day visitors, except in cases where these are so important as to justify a separate classification. Excluded is the international carriage of travelers, which is covered in passenger travel items. Data are in current U.S. dollars.; ; World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.; Gap-filled total;

In 2023, the United States was the top international destination for Ecuadorians, representing nearly ** percent of all outbound tourism. Colombia ranked second as the most popular destination for Ecuadorian travelers.

Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data was reported at 661.000 USD mn in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 639.000 USD mn for 2015. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data is updated yearly, averaging 447.500 USD mn from Dec 1995 (Median) to 2016, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 661.000 USD mn in 2016 and a record low of 219.000 USD mn in 1996. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Ecuador – Table EC.World Bank.WDI: Tourism Statistics. International tourism expenditures are expenditures of international outbound visitors in other countries. The goods and services are purchased by, or on behalf of, the traveler or provided, without a quid pro quo, for the traveler to use or give away. These may include expenditures by residents traveling abroad as same-day visitors, except in cases where these are so important as to justify a separate classification. Excluded is the international carriage of travelers, which is covered in passenger travel items. Data are in current U.S. dollars.; ; World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.; Gap-filled total;

The revenue in the travel & tourism market in Ecuador was modeled to stand at ************** U.S. dollars in 2024. Between 2017 and 2024, the revenue rose by ************* U.S. dollars, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend. The revenue will steadily rise by ************** U.S. dollars over the period from 2024 to 2030, reflecting a clear upward trend.Further information about the methodology, more market segments, and metrics can be found on the dedicated Market Insights page on Travel & Tourism.

Ecuador Tourist Arrival: Foreigner: by Purpose of Travel: Tourism data was reported at 863,161.000 Person in 2023. This records an increase from the previous number of 724,881.000 Person for 2022. Ecuador Tourist Arrival: Foreigner: by Purpose of Travel: Tourism data is updated yearly, averaging 823,639.000 Person from Dec 2000 (Median) to 2023, with 24 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,928,612.000 Person in 2018 and a record low of 256,514.000 Person in 2020. Ecuador Tourist Arrival: Foreigner: by Purpose of Travel: Tourism data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by National Institute of Statistics and Census. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Ecuador – Table EC.Q005: Tourist Arrival: National Institute of Statistics and Census: by Purpose of Travel.

Ecuador is a country with a vast natural and cultural wealth, its diversity encompasses hundreds of thousands of species of flora and fauna. The Ecuadorian internal consumption of travel and tourism in 2019, which encompasses sector's revenues and government spending, increased during the past decade from 2.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2010 to nearly four billion dollars in 2019.

Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Passenger Transport Items data was reported at 373.000 USD mn in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 355.000 USD mn for 2015. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Passenger Transport Items data is updated yearly, averaging 222.000 USD mn from Dec 1995 (Median) to 2016, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 373.000 USD mn in 2016 and a record low of 84.000 USD mn in 1998. Ecuador EC: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Passenger Transport Items data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Ecuador – Table EC.World Bank.WDI: Tourism Statistics. International tourism expenditures for passenger transport items are expenditures of international outbound visitors in other countries for all services provided during international transportation by nonresident carriers. Also included are passenger services performed within an economy by nonresident carriers. Excluded are passenger services provided to nonresidents by resident carriers within the resident economies; these are included in travel items. In addition to the services covered by passenger fares--including fares that are a part of package tours but excluding cruise fares, which are included in travel--passenger services include such items as charges for excess baggage, vehicles, or other personal accompanying effects and expenditures for food, drink, or other items for which passengers make expenditures while on board carriers. Data are in current U.S. dollars.; ; World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.; Gap-filled total;

In 2020, the expenditures made by international travelers from Ecuador amounted to *** million U.S. dollars, of which *** million corresponded to transportation. In the last four years of the 2010s, however, expenditures of outbound tourists from the Latin American country had soared above *** billion U.S. dollars. The increase on travel spending unrelated to passenger transportation accounted for that development, according to data published by the UNWTO.

Key information about Ecuador Visitor Arrivals

• Ecuador Visitor Arrivals recorded 1,290,514 person in Dec 2024, compared with 1,423,432 person in the previous year
• Ecuador Visitor Arrivals data is updated yearly, available from Dec 1997 to Dec 2024
• The data reached an all-time high of 2,252,263 person in Dec 2018 and a record low of 349,363 person in Dec 1998

The number of visitors to the United States from Equador increased from 2023 to 2024. In 2024, the number of visitors to the U.S. from Ecuador reached 492,163, up from the previous year's total of 468,419.

Over half of international travelers in Ecuador in 2024 entered the country for tourism purposes. Another **** percent of that group intended to establish their residence in the Latin American country. That same year, U.S. nationals constituted the largest group of foreign tourists in Ecuador.

The Latin American travel market, valued at $103.17 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.67% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increased disposable incomes across the region, coupled with a burgeoning middle class, are leading to greater spending on leisure and travel. The growing popularity of adventure tourism, particularly eco-tourism in countries like Costa Rica and Ecuador, is attracting a significant influx of international visitors seeking unique experiences. Furthermore, the development of improved infrastructure, including airports and transportation networks, is enhancing accessibility and stimulating tourism growth. The rising adoption of online travel booking platforms and the increasing penetration of smartphones are simplifying the travel planning process and driving market expansion. While fluctuating exchange rates and potential political instability in certain regions pose challenges, the overall growth trajectory remains positive. The market segmentation reveals a diverse landscape. International tourism contributes significantly to the overall revenue, with North American and European tourists representing a substantial share. Domestic tourism is also experiencing growth, driven by increased travel within Latin American countries. In terms of purpose, adventure tourism is a major driver, alongside business travel, particularly in major cities like São Paulo, Mexico City, and Bogotá. Family and friends visits represent another considerable segment, reflecting strong familial ties and cultural norms. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established international hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton, alongside regional players like Condor Travel and Despegar.com, catering to diverse customer segments and preferences. The continued expansion of sustainable tourism initiatives and focus on enhancing the traveler experience will further shape the market's future growth. Recent developments include: February 2024: Despegar, a prominent travel agency in Latin America, launched its online booking platform for customers.June 2023: UK-based TMC Network International Travel Partnership expanded its footprint in Latin America by partnering with Consolid Global Travel Solutions.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Disposable Income, Increasing Social Media Influence. Potential restraints include: Increasing Disposable Income, Increasing Social Media Influence. Notable trends are: Increasing International Tourism Fueling the Market.

In 2023, Ecuador registered over *** million tourist departures from nationals traveling to other countries. This figure represents a significant increase over the previous two years, and set a new record for the country based on data going back to 2002.

Hammerhead Migration Dive Trips Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Hammerhead Migration Dive Trips market size was valued at $420 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $960 million by 2033, expanding at an impressive CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period of 2025–2033. The primary growth driver for this market is the surging global interest in eco-tourism and adventure travel, with divers and marine enthusiasts increasingly seeking unique, nature-centered experiences. The spectacular seasonal migration of hammerhead sharks, coupled with growing awareness of marine biodiversity, has positioned dive trips around these events as a premium offering within the broader adventure tourism sector.

Regional Outlook

North America holds the largest share of the Hammerhead Migration Dive Trips market, accounting for approximately 37% of the global revenue in 2024. The region’s dominance is attributed to its mature adventure tourism infrastructure, high disposable incomes, and well-established dive communities, particularly in the United States and Mexico. Destinations such as the Galápagos Islands (Ecuador, but heavily marketed in North America), Cocos Island (Costa Rica), and the Bahamas are key hotspots for hammerhead migrations, attracting thousands of divers annually. Furthermore, robust regulatory frameworks ensuring diver safety and marine conservation, along with strong marketing by travel operators, have contributed to sustained demand growth in this region. The presence of leading dive travel agencies, advanced booking platforms, and a culture of experiential travel continue to reinforce North America’s leadership in the global hammerhead migration dive trips market.

The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest-growing market, with a CAGR exceeding 12.3% during 2025–2033. This exceptional growth is driven by increasing adventure tourism in countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Japan, where hammerhead aggregations are prominent. Rising middle-class incomes, greater accessibility to remote dive destinations, and government initiatives to promote marine tourism are key factors fueling this expansion. Investments in dive infrastructure, the proliferation of dive training centers, and the emergence of local liveaboard operators are further catalyzing market growth. Additionally, the region is witnessing heightened interest from international divers seeking unexplored sites, which is boosting both inbound tourism and the local economy. Asia Pacific’s youthful demographic and growing digital literacy are also accelerating online bookings and social media-driven travel trends.

Emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually establishing themselves as niche markets in the hammerhead migration dive trips segment. However, they face several adoption challenges, including limited dive infrastructure, fluctuating political climates, and inconsistent enforcement of marine protection policies. Despite these hurdles, localized demand is rising due to targeted promotional campaigns, partnerships with international dive clubs, and the development of eco-friendly resorts. Countries such as Ecuador and South Africa are leveraging their unique marine ecosystems to attract both recreational and professional divers. Nonetheless, the pace of market growth in these regions is somewhat restrained by logistical complexities, higher travel costs, and the need for more standardized safety protocols.

Report Scope

Volcano Scenic Flight Tours Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Volcano Scenic Flight Tours market size was valued at $1.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.8 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 9.7% during 2024–2033. The primary driver propelling this impressive growth is the surge in experiential travel preferences among global tourists, who increasingly seek unique and adrenaline-fueled adventures that combine natural wonders with luxury and safety. As travelers prioritize immersive and Instagram-worthy experiences, volcano scenic flight tours have emerged as a sought-after segment within the broader adventure tourism industry, drawing attention for their ability to offer unparalleled aerial views of some of the world’s most dynamic geological phenomena.

Regional Outlook

North America currently commands the largest share of the Volcano Scenic Flight Tours market, accounting for approximately 35% of global revenues in 2024. This dominance is primarily attributed to the mature tourism infrastructure in the United States and Canada, coupled with the high concentration of active and dormant volcanoes in locations such as Hawaii, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest. The region benefits from advanced aviation technology, stringent safety regulations, and a robust marketing ecosystem that targets both domestic and international tourists. Additionally, established operators in these geographies have successfully leveraged digital booking platforms and partnerships with luxury travel agencies to cater to affluent travelers seeking exclusive, private, or customized flight experiences. The regulatory environment, emphasizing safety and environmental stewardship, further enhances the market’s credibility and growth prospects.

The Asia Pacific region is forecasted to be the fastest-growing market for volcano scenic flight tours, with a projected CAGR of 12.5% through 2033. The rapid expansion is driven by rising disposable incomes, a burgeoning middle class, and increased awareness of adventure tourism opportunities in countries such as Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines. These nations boast some of the world’s most active and visually spectacular volcanoes, attracting both regional and international tourists. Investment in aviation infrastructure and aggressive marketing by local tourism boards have further accelerated growth. Moreover, technological advancements in aircraft safety and navigation are making remote volcano sites more accessible, while government incentives and eco-tourism initiatives are encouraging sustainable development of this niche tourism sector.

Emerging economies in Latin America and Middle East & Africa present a mixed outlook for the volcano scenic flight tours market. While countries like Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Tanzania possess world-renowned volcanic landscapes, challenges such as limited aviation infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and lower consumer purchasing power have restrained rapid adoption. Nonetheless, these regions are witnessing gradual uptake, particularly among international eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Local operators are increasingly forming alliances with global travel agencies and investing in staff training to align with international safety and service standards. Policy reforms and targeted government investments in tourism infrastructure are expected to gradually improve market penetration and unlock future growth potential.

Report Scope

In 2019, Ecuador received a Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index score of **** out of seven in the pillar of international openness. Pillar 8: price competitiveness received the highest score among the ** pillars, with a value of ***.