The Mexican city of Cancún was the top Latin American destination for foreign visitors in 2018, with approximately 6.04 million international tourist arrivals. This number was expected to increase by 1.8 percent in 2019, reaching 6.15 million foreign arrivals that year. Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, ranked second on the list of top city destinations for international tourism in Latin America, with nearly 2.7 million international tourist arrivals in 2018 and an estimate of 2.77 million arrivals for 2019. During the depicted period, the most visited city in the whole American continent was New York.

In 2024, Cuzco, Peru, was named the top destination in Latin America by travelers, receiving a score of 87.47. The small southern city of Antigua, Guatemala, followed in second place with a score of nearly 86 points.

Mexico was the most visited destination by international tourists in Latin America in 2023, surpassing 42 million tourist arrivals in that year. In the second place, but far behind, was the Dominican Republic.

A global tourism powerhouse By developing airport infrastructure and calibrating new direct flights, Mexico has set international tourism high on its priorities list. At the forefront of Mexico's spike in international tourism is the FONATUR, or Mexico's National Fund for Tourism Development. The tourism body worked in the expansion of Cancun's airport and other four key tourist airports in the country. Plus, Mexico City's airport added new international direct flights in the 2010s, resulting in being rated as the best internationally connected airport in Latin America in 2019. With this and other developments in this sector, the North American country managed to rank among the top 20 destinations in the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Ranking that year.

South America's tourism leader Through its geographically diverse landscape and globally recognized wine industry, Argentina has grown its international tourism sector. The influx of foreign visitors to Argentina can in some way be attributed to the country's air-travel infrastructure. The national air carrier, Aerolineas Argentinas, was one of the top airline operating in Latin America in 2019. That same year, passenger traffic to Argentinian airports grew by four percent. Though in April 2020, in the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the arrival of international air travel tourists to Argentina came to a complete halt, ensuing a similar fate of the global tourism industry.

In 2018, Cancún (Mexico) was the Latin American city with the largest number of international visitors, receiving a total of 6.04 million tourists. It was followed by Punta Cana (Dominican Republic) with 3.89 million international tourists that year.

This feature layer provides access to OpenStreetMap (OSM) tourist attraction point data for South America, which is updated every 5 minutes with the latest edits. This hosted feature layer view is referencing a hosted feature layer of OSM point (node) data in ArcGIS Online that is updated with minutely diffs from the OSM planet file. This feature layer view includes tourism features defined as a query against the hosted feature layer (i.e. tourism is not blank).In OSM, tourism features are places and things of specific interest to tourists including places to see, places to stay, things and places providing information and support to tourists. These features are identified with a tourism tag. There are hundreds of different tag values used in the OSM database. In this feature layer, unique symbols are used for several of the most popular tourism types, while lesser used types are grouped in an "other" category.Zoom in to large scales (e.g. Cities level or 1:160k scale) to see the tourism features display. You can click on a feature to get the name of the tourism feature. The name of the feature will display by default at very large scales (e.g. Building level of 1:2k scale). Labels can be turned off in your map if you prefer.Create New LayerIf you would like to create a more focused version of this tourism layer displaying just one or two tourism types, you can do that easily! Just add the layer to a map, copy the layer in the content window, add a filter to the new layer (e.g. tourism is ruin), rename the layer as appropriate, and save layer. You can also change the layer symbols or popup if you like.Important Note: if you do create a new layer, it should be provided under the same Terms of Use and include the same Credits as this layer. You can copy and paste the Terms of Use and Credits info below in the new Item page as needed.

The Capital District of Bogotá welcomed more than 1.1 million international tourists in Colombia in 2023, while Antioquia – with Medellín as capital – received roughly 678 thousand foreign visitors arriving in the South American country that year.

Bogotá: the main travel hub in Colombia

With a population approximating eight million inhabitants, Bogotá is not only the capital of Colombia but also its most populated city. In addition to that, its geographic location —right in the middle of the country's territory— has also enabled this metropolis to become the most important crossing point for international and domestic travelers. Bogotá’s International Airport is by a wide margin, the main point of entry into the Latin American country, handling more than 1.5 million passengers each month in pre-pandemic times.

Cartagena: the most attractive destination of the Colombian Caribbean coast

With its Spanish colonial buildings of the walled city, the modern vibe of Boca Grande, and the colorful houses of Getsemaní, Cartagena attracts many international and domestic tourists each year. This Caribbean city is also Colombia's cruise tourism center, with more than 300 thousand passenger arrivals per year in pre-pandemic times. Consequently, Bolívar ranks among the departments with the largest number of accommodation establishments in Colombia, with nearly 4.5 thousand in total.

Having welcomed nearly 2.8 million visitors in total, Beto Carrero World in Brazil was the leading Latin American amusement and theme park in 2023. Six Flags Mexico, located in Mexico City, was the second most visited theme park in the region.

Puerto Rico's capital ranked in the third quarter of 2024 as the most expensive destination among major business travel cities in Latin America. In those months, a business trip to San Juan could cost on average around 365 U.S. dollars per day, including hotel, basic meals, and transportation from the airport to the city center. Regarding accommodation, Panama was the most expensive city in that period, while San Juan registered the highest price of taxi transportation and food.

In 2025, approximately 23 million people lived in the São Paulo metropolitan area, making it the biggest in Latin America and the Caribbean and the sixth most populated in the world. The homonymous state of São Paulo was also the most populous federal entity in the country. The second place for the region was Mexico City with 22.75 million inhabitants. Brazil's cities Brazil is home to two large metropolises, only counting the population within the city limits, São Paulo had approximately 11.45 million inhabitants, and Rio de Janeiro around 6.21 million inhabitants. It also contains a number of smaller, but well known cities such as Brasília, Salvador, Belo Horizonte and many others, which report between 2 and 3 million inhabitants each. As a result, the country's population is primarily urban, with nearly 88 percent of inhabitants living in cities. Mexico City Mexico City's metropolitan area ranks sevenths in the ranking of most populated cities in the world. Founded over the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan in 1521 after the Spanish conquest as the capital of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, the city still stands as one of the most important in Latin America. Nevertheless, the preeminent economic, political, and cultural position of Mexico City has not prevented the metropolis from suffering the problems affecting the rest of the country, namely, inequality and violence. Only in 2023, the city registered a crime incidence of 52,723 reported cases for every 100,000 inhabitants and around 24 percent of the population lived under the poverty line.

Amusement Park Market Outlook

The global amusement park market size was valued at approximately USD 52 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 75 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to various factors including rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanization, and technological advancements in ride and entertainment experiences.

One of the primary growth factors driving the amusement park market is the rising disposable income among the middle class in emerging economies. As people have more disposable income, they are more likely to spend on leisure activities, including visits to amusement parks. This increase in discretionary spending boosts attendance and revenues, fueling market growth. In addition, the urbanization trend is leading to more people living in cities, where large amusement parks are often located, making it easier for them to visit these entertainment hubs.

Technological advancements in ride safety, entertainment experiences, and virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) attractions are also significant growth drivers. Innovative ride designs and immersive experiences attract a broader audience, including tech-savvy teenagers and young adults who seek out new and exciting forms of entertainment. Moreover, the integration of smart technologies to enhance visitor experience through mobile apps, fast-pass systems, and real-time updates is making amusement parks more appealing to the modern consumer.

The expansion of themed attractions and brand collaborations further contributes to market growth. Popular franchises from movies, cartoons, and video games are increasingly being integrated into amusement park themes, drawing fans from around the world. This trend not only increases visitor numbers but also opens up additional revenue streams through merchandise sales and themed food and beverage offerings. Themed attractions offer a unique experience that can't easily be replicated, providing parks with a competitive edge.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, driven by economic development, increasing tourism, and substantial investments in new amusement parks. North America, already a mature market, continues to grow steadily due to ongoing upgrades and the introduction of new attractions. Europe also remains a strong market, benefiting from well-established parks and a high level of consumer spending on entertainment. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are expected to see moderate growth, as investments in new parks and the tourism sector continue to rise.

Ride Type Analysis

The amusement park market is segmented by ride type into roller coasters, water rides, flat rides, and others. Roller coasters hold a significant share of the market, driven by their popularity among thrill-seekers and continuous innovation in design and technology. Manufacturers are constantly pushing the boundaries with higher speeds, steeper drops, and more complex track designs to attract visitors. The introduction of hybrid roller coasters, which combine wooden and steel elements, has also added a new dimension to the ride experience, further boosting their appeal.

Water rides are another key segment, especially popular during the summer months. These rides include water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, which attract visitors looking for a way to cool off while having fun. Themed water parks and the integration of advanced water filtration and recycling systems are contributing to the segment's growth. Increasing concerns about water usage and sustainability are pushing parks to adopt more eco-friendly technologies, which in turn enhances their appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Flat rides, such as carousels, Ferris wheels, and bumper cars, are longstanding attractions that cater to a broad audience, including families with young children. These rides are less intense than roller coasters, making them accessible to a wider range of visitors. Innovations in ride design and theming, along with advanced safety features, are helping to maintain their popularity. Furthermore, flat rides are often the first attractions that visitors encounter, serving as an entry point to the broader amusement park experience.

The "others" category encompasses a variety of attractions, including dark rides, interactive simulators, and live entertainment shows. This segment is growing as parks diversify their offeri

Chilean citizens were the Latin Americans holding the most powerful passport in the region as of late 2023. At that time, the Chilean passport granted access to 175 countries, while Argentina and Brazil – following in the ranking – scored 170 visa-free access destinations. Meanwhile, the passport from Barbados was the most powerful Caribbean passport in that same year.

Outbound tourism in Chile

Preliminary figures for 2022 showed that there were more than two million outbound travelers from Chile that year. This denoted an increase of about 322 percent over the previous year, when departures were most likely hampered by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Meanwhile, the Chilean expenditure per capita on international tourism showed that an outbound traveler from the South American country spent approximately 36.48 U.S. dollars in 2023, with this figure forecast to increase by about 25 percent by 2028.

Tourist destinations in Latin America

Mexico was the most visited Latin American country in 2022, with over 38 million international tourists visiting the country that year. Meanwhile, looking at traveler scores for cities in Latin America, five Mexican cities outperformed destinations from other Latin American countries in the ranking in 2023. On the other hand, a 2023 study which utilized a daily price index to calculate the cheapest Latin American city destinations found that Quito, the capital of Ecuador, was the most affordable city for backpackers in the region in 2023.

Cable Cars Market Outlook

The global cable cars market size was valued at approximately USD 3.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.8 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.5% over the forecast period. The market's growth is driven by the increasing adoption of cable cars in urban transit systems and the tourism sector. The need for efficient, environmentally friendly transportation solutions and the surge in tourism activities around the globe are key factors contributing to the market expansion.

One of the primary growth drivers for the cable cars market is the rising demand for sustainable and efficient urban transportation systems. Urban areas are increasingly plagued by traffic congestion and pollution, leading city planners to seek out alternative modes of transportation. Cable cars offer a viable solution due to their minimal environmental impact, low operational costs, and ability to navigate difficult urban terrains. Cities like La Paz in Bolivia and Medellin in Colombia have already successfully integrated cable cars into their public transport networks, setting a precedent for other urban areas to follow.

Another significant growth factor is the booming tourism industry. Cable cars provide a unique and attractive mode of transport that enhances the tourist experience, offering panoramic views of scenic landscapes. Popular tourist destinations such as the Swiss Alps, Rio de Janeiro, and various national parks worldwide have long utilized cable cars to transport visitors, thereby contributing significantly to the local economy. The continued expansion of the global tourism sector, coupled with the development of new tourist attractions, is expected to further fuel the demand for cable cars.

Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in the growth of the cable cars market. Innovations such as automated control systems, enhanced safety features, and energy-efficient designs are making cable cars more reliable and appealing to both operators and passengers. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on integrating cutting-edge technologies to meet the growing safety and efficiency standards, thereby driving the market forward.

Regionally, the market for cable cars is witnessing notable growth across various areas. Asia Pacific stands out as a significant contributor to market expansion, driven by rapid urbanization and increasing investments in infrastructure development. North America and Europe also present substantial growth opportunities due to the rising focus on sustainable transportation and the well-established tourism industry. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are experiencing gradual market growth, supported by emerging tourism sectors and infrastructural enhancements.

Product Type Analysis

The cable cars market is segmented into various product types, including Gondola Lifts, Aerial Tramways, Funicular Railways, Chair Lifts, and Others. Each of these product types serves different purposes and has unique advantages, contributing to the overall market growth diversely. Gondola Lifts, for example, are highly favored in both urban transit and tourism applications due to their capacity to transport a large number of passengers efficiently. These systems are often used in ski resorts and mountainous regions, providing a scenic and practical transportation solution.

Aerial Tramways, on the other hand, are typically used in areas with challenging terrains. These tramways are capable of spanning significant distances and heights, making them ideal for mountainous regions and urban areas with geographical constraints. The flexibility and adaptability of aerial tramways have made them popular in cities looking to integrate alternative transport solutions and in remote tourist locations.

Funicular Railways offer a different kind of transport solution, operating on steep inclines and often used in hilly urban areas or tourist spots. These railways are unique in their ability to handle steep gradients, providing a reliable and efficient mode of transport in areas where traditional rail or road systems may be impractical. Funicular railways are widely employed in European cities and tourist attractions, contributing to their popularity.

Chair Lifts are predominantly used in ski resorts and other recreational areas. These lifts are designed to carry skiers and tourists up and down slopes, providing an essential service in winter sports and recreational activities. While their use is more niche compared to other cable car typ

A dataset listing Georgia cities by population for 2024.

Based on the number of scheduled seats, the air route from Orlando, Florida, to the capital city of Puerto Rico was the busiest flight route involving a Latin American destination. Meanwhile, the routes connecting Peru's Lima airport to Santiago, Chile, ranked second, with roughly 160 thousand scheduled seats each.

With more than 52 thousand air passengers, Miami was the most popular destination for air travelers from Colombia in March 2021, followed by Panama City. Out of the top five city destinations of air passengers departing from the South American country that month, three were in the United States.

Due to its geographical position, Mexico is the main recipient of tourism from the United States in Latin America. In 2023, there were nearly 13 million U.S. overnight tourists in Mexican territory – more than 40 percent of the total U.S. tourism volume in Latin America. In that same year, around 10.7 million U.S. Americans traveled to the Caribbean.

The ******** capital ranked as the most affordable city for backpacking in Latin America as of early 2025. On average, travelers in ****** could manage to spend less than ** U.S. dollars per day in accommodation, food, and entertainment. The capital of ******* ranked second in the list of cheapest destinations for backpackers in Latin America at that time.

Over 15 percent of domestic tourists that visited the Mexican city of Cancún in the first quarter of 2020 were from the country's capital, Mexico City. Cancún is one of the most visited city in Latin America.

In 2023, Mexico was the Latin American country with the largest total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to the gross domestic product (GDP), with over 260 billion U.S. dollars. Brazil was second on the list that year, as travel and tourism contributed approximately 104 billion U.S. dollars to its GDP.

Guadalajara and Buenos Aires were chosen as the best food cities in Latin America in the 2023/2024, according to a study. In that season, these two cuisines achieved a score of 4.64 and 4.62 points.