There are several factors driving the current economic growth in Latin America. Such factors include investment stimulation by regional governments and an increase in skilled labour. This is causing a surge in new business arrivals from outside the region and more Latin American tourism.
Simultaneously, the increasing wealth of the middle class and the elimination of visas required between nations, among other reasons, have caused an even greater spike in Latin American tourism. As the sector booms, more people are considering company formation in the region or via foreign investment.
As we are experts in Latin America and the Caribbean, Biz Latin Hub is ideally placed to help you with this. Our network of 18 dedicated local offices spans the region, including all the hotspots for Latin American tourism. We can sort out the bureaucracy and detail, allowing you to focus on building your business with the peace of mind that comes from knowing there are no legal issues to worry about.
The growing number of travelers
Latin America has become one of the most dynamic and fast-growing tourism regions in the world, driven by an expanding middle class, greater flight connectivity, and a thriving digital travel ecosystem. The growing interest in Latin American tourism has directly benefited both regional and international airlines, as well as global hotel chains eager to capture this surging demand.
According to the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), by the end of 2018, fourteen new regional and international air routes were inaugurated, improving connections between Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This increase in connectivity has supported record growth in tourist arrivals and made destinations such as Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina more accessible than ever.
The hospitality industry has also identified Latin America as a critical growth region. Rufino Perez, COO & Global Transformation Leader of the NH Hotel Group, announced that the company will open 11 new hotels across Latin America to meet the rising demand. Similar expansion plans are underway for brands like Marriott and Hilton, as travelers seek unique and authentic experiences across the continent.
Equally transformative has been the rise of e-commerce and mobile technology in tourism. With over 60% of the Latin American population online, travelers are increasingly turning to digital platforms to book flights, reserve hotels, and organize tours, bypassing traditional travel agencies. This digital shift presents enormous opportunities for tech-driven businesses and startups to offer innovative travel solutions and health-focused travel experiences.
One of the fastest-growing niches in this space is medical tourism, where technology enables patients to connect directly with world-class hospitals and doctors throughout Latin America. Through trusted facilitators such as Medical Tourism Packages, travelers can explore advanced and affordable healthcare options, including:
- Stem Cell Transplant in Panama — combining cutting-edge medicine with cost-effective treatments.
- Blepharoplasty in Mexico — offering cosmetic surgery excellence in one of Latin America’s top destinations.
- Liposuction in Costa Rica — where accredited clinics provide high-quality procedures in paradise.
- Top 5 Reasons Why Panama Is Ideal for Medical Tourism — from safety and affordability to U.S.-standard healthcare.
- Pros and Cons of Medical Tourism in Panama — helping patients make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.
As the tourism sector continues to evolve, the intersection of travel, healthcare, and technology is shaping the future of how people explore and heal in Latin America. For more insights and inspiration, visit the Medical Tourism Packages Blog and explore the Latin America Travel Guide.
Overview in Numbers
Despite various political and social problems that affected some countries of the region, Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Panama are in the top 50 nations with the most competitive tourism sector, according to the World Economic Forum.
Naturally, Latin American tourism boosts job creation and according to a WTO report, approximately 10.6 million jobs were generated in 2018, and the figure will rise to 13.2 million within ten years.
Both the private and public sectors are receiving the benefits of increased tourism in the region. Foreign firms need to be sure to complete the correct procedures and regulations concerning work visas and hiring staff in different countries.
What’s the Appeal of Latin American Tourism?
Despite social and political problems faced by Latin America, many nations have the chance to present their finest attributes through tourism. Visitors travel from Europe and North America to experience its natural beauty, landscapes, and rich history.
According to a study conducted by Axon Latam, the top reasons for foreign tourists to visit Latin America are:
- Landscapes and nature (25%)
- Adventure tourism (23%)
- Historical significance (22%)
- Food and drink (18%)
Recently, visitors from Asia have also grown, motivated by their taste for exotic multi-nation trips.
Additionally, ethnic-tourism has been encouraged in places such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and parts of the Amazon rainforest in Colombia, along with the Cusco region in Peru. This gives visitors a closer look at the native and indigenous cultures, past and present.
Homegrown Travel
Latinos are also traveling in greater numbers. Millennials are searching for destinations with a thirst for adventure and new experiences.
Pensioners and retirees in search of tranquil destinations and a growing interest in luxury destinations by the middle class, add to the mix. Naturally, technology has been an important factor.
According to a study made by the Amadeus company on Latin American tourism, 58% of Argentines choose their destinations depending on recommendations from acquaintances and by word-of-mouth.
In Brazil, there is a 43% trend in consulting social networks, when making travel decisions and 27% of travel is bought via smartphone.
Firms in the industry need to have clear strategies set on how to best reach their customers. Additionally, a report published by Expedia Group shows that good deals, destination information, and advertising are the three biggest determining factors for Latino travelers.
The use of social media and tourism portals through mobile phones, though still basic, are now the biggest sources for destination choice and trip activities.
Biz Latin Hub can help with Latin American tourism businesses
The Latin American tourism sector has evolved to be one of the most attractive sectors within the region. Market opportunities, especially in sustainable tourism and technological solutions attract the attention of local and foreign investors.
Our team at Biz Latin Hub can provide you with professional business services to support your business operations in Chile. Do not hesitate to contact us now for more personalized information about viable business opportunities.
