GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Mexico Tourism Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Mexico Tourism Statistics

  • Foreign tourism in Mexico in 2020 amounted to a total of 25.1 million tourists.
  • Over 44 million visitors from around the world visited Mexico in 2019.
  • In 2019, about 55% of international tourists in Mexico were from the United States.
  • Canada ranks as the second biggest group of tourists to Mexico.
  • 70.6 percent of tourists arrived in Mexico via air transportation in 2019.
  • The tourism sector in Mexico contributed with 8.7 percent to the country's GDP in 2018.
  • 30% of visitors to Mexico in 2018 visited the central West Pacific coast.
  • Riviera Maya was the most popular destination in Mexico in 2019, with more than 5 million international visitors.
  • In 2020, Mexico earned around 11 billion USD from international tourism.
  • The average spending of international tourists in Mexico was $490.13 in 2019.
  • In 2019, over 100,000 people were directly employed in the hotel and restaurant sector in Quintana Roo, the Mexican state with the highest number of employees in this sector.
  • In 2019, Mexico City had the largest number of hotel rooms in the country, with about 50 thousand.
  • Rural tourism in Mexico generated more than 185 million U.S. dollars in 2018.
  • The State of Mexico received the most national tourists in 2019, with more than 21 million visitors.
  • Medical tourism in Mexico attracts up to a million people a year.
  • Only 1% of total visitors to Mexico in 2019 were from Asia.
  • Cruise ships brought 7.2 million visitors to Mexico in 2019.
  • About 20% of international tourists visit Mexico for business reasons.
  • The number of international tourists in Mexico experienced a negative growth of 46.7% in 2020 as compared to the previous year due to the pandemic.

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Welcome to our deep dive into the fascinating world of Mexico Tourism Statistics. Mexico, famous for its exotic beaches, rich cultural heritage, and scrumptious cuisine, has successfully etched its name in the global tourism map. By unraveling statistical data, this blog post is designed to provide keen insights into the tourism trends, popular destinations, tourism contribution to Mexico’s GDP, and visitors’ demographics. Whether you’re a prospective traveler planning your trip or a scholar researching tourism patterns, these statistics will add immense value to your understanding of the vibrant tourism landscape in Mexico.

The Latest Mexico Tourism Statistics Unveiled

Foreign tourism in Mexico in 2020 amounted to a total of 25.1 million tourists.

Peeling back the layers of Mexico’s tourism industry reveals an intriguing narrative told through the statistic that a substantial figure of 25.1 million foreign tourists graced its landscapes in 2020. Unpacking this data uncovers the enduring allure of Mexico’s cultural richness despite a global pandemic, and signifies its crucial role in bolstering the economy. Additionally, it sets a defined benchmark for further growth, offers a comparative perspective to past trends, and sketches a potential trajectory for the future. This statistic lends the tourism sector a quantifiable voice, punctuating the broader discussion around Mexico’s appeal as a leading global tourism destination.

Over 44 million visitors from around the world visited Mexico in 2019.

The impressive influx of over 44 million global visitors to Mexico in 2019 signifies Mexico’s growing allure as a top global destination, painting a vivid picture of the country’s booming tourism sector. This number serves as a robust testament to the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and the warm hospitality Mexico offers to the world, making it an attractive tourist haven. In a blog post dissecting Mexico’s tourism statistics, this number provides persuasive evidence of tourism’s vital role in Mexico’s economy and underscores the importance of measures aimed at fostering sustainable growth of its tourism sector.

In 2019, about 55% of international tourists in Mexico were from the United States.

Delving into the intriguing world of Mexico’s vibrant tourism industry, the figure that in 2019, a massive 55% of international tourists in Mexico hailed from the United States, unveils the significant bond between the two countries, both culturally and geographically. It serves as an accurate reflection of the high dependency Mexico’s tourism industry has on American travellers, shaping its offerings to cater extensively for this majority demographic. These numbers are, therefore, an important indicator for stakeholders who use the statistic in their decision-making processes, such as targeting marketing strategies, developing culturally suitable amenities, and formulating logistical arrangements, ultimately driving the sustainability and growth of Mexico’s vital tourism sector.

Canada ranks as the second biggest group of tourists to Mexico.

In analyzing Mexico’s tourism dynamics, the evident fact that Canada stands as the second largest source of tourists serves as a pivotal touchstone. It underscores the undeniable affinity and geographical convenience that makes Mexico a preferred holiday destination for Canadians. Against the grand tableau of global tourism trends, it shapes our understanding of the bilateral cultural connections, travel preferences, and economic linkages that continuously support Mexico’s tourism sector. Crafting strategies, predicting travel patterns, or simply understanding the touristic bond between these nations, remain incomplete without acknowledging this significant statistic.

70.6 percent of tourists arrived in Mexico via air transportation in 2019.

Highlighting the flow of 70.6 percent of tourists into Mexico via air transportation in 2019 gives a clear picture of the crucial role that airlines play in promoting Mexico’s tourism industry. This figure not only drives home the popularity of air travel among tourists, largely owing to its convenience and speed, but it also underlines the critical need for continued investment in airport infrastructure and related services. Furthermore, it indirectly speaks to the health of the country’s national carriers, the significance of major global airlines in connecting Mexico to the world, and the effectiveness of marketing efforts to attract international visitors to the country’s rich offerings of cultural and natural attractions.

The tourism sector in Mexico contributed with 8.7 percent to the country’s GDP in 2018.

Unveiling a substantial economic footprint, the tourism sector in Mexico formed 8.7 percent of the country’s GDP in 2018 – a testament to its prowess as a cornerstone of the nation’s growth strategy. The narrative of this remarkable statistic, woven into the fabric of our blog post about Mexico’s Tourism Statistics, amplifies our understanding of tourism’s critical role within Mexico’s economy. This figure not only highlights the sector’s impressive economic output, but its integral importance as a dynamic force in job creation, investment, and overall economic stability. In essence, this statistic paints a vivid picture of the synergy between tourism and sustainable economic development in Mexico.

30% of visitors to Mexico in 2018 visited the central West Pacific coast.

Illuminating a lesser-known dimension within the landscape of Mexico’s thriving tourism industry, the substantial statistic of 30% of visitors to Mexico in 2018 exploring the central West Pacific coast underscores the rising allure of this region. This fraction not only amplifies the geographic diversity Mexico offers, but also paints a rich picture of trends and preferences among international visitors – a valuable insight for potential tourists planning a journey, businesses looking to engage with the tourism sector, or policy makers aiming to facilitate balanced tourism growth across regions. This enticing piece of data encapsulates the untapped beauty of Mexico’s central West Pacific coast and prompts new discussions around optimizing tourism potentials of various regions within the country.

Riviera Maya was the most popular destination in Mexico in 2019, with more than 5 million international visitors.

A kaleidoscope of vibrant culture, unique biodiversity, and warm hospitality, Riviera Maya has been extravagantly highlighted in 2019’s Mexico Tourism Statistics as a magnet for international admirers. The astounding count of over 5 million global tourists echoes not only Riviera Maya’s timeless appeal, but they also stand as a testament to Mexico’s burgeoning prominence on the world tourism map. This influx of international visitors boosts local economy, fosters cultural exchange, and underlines the evolving preference of world tourists to go beyond cliched destinations, making these meaningful pieces of data essential for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and avid travelers alike.

In 2020, Mexico earned around 11 billion USD from international tourism.

In the intriguing tapestry of Mexico’s tourism landscape, the impressive figure of 11 billion USD revenue from international tourism in 2020 plays a pivotal role. It encapsulates the economic significance of the sector, underlining the heavy reliance of the country on tourism-driven income, despite global austerities triggered by the pandemic. This monetary measure not only exhibits the popularity and appeal of Mexico among international travelers but also serves as a testament to the country’s resilience, adaptability, and potential for bounce-back in the post-Covid era. With the curtains of this statistic drawn, the flourishing narrative of Mexico’s tourism industry undoubtedly becomes more compelling, encouraging readers to delve deeper into its vibrant hues.

The average spending of international tourists in Mexico was $490.13 in 2019.

The notable average expenditure of $490.13 by international tourists visiting Mexico in 2019 presents an essential element in the narrative of Mexico’s tourism sector, painting a vibrant picture of its economic impact. The amplitude of this figure not only bespeaks the attractiveness of Mexico’s diverse tourism offering but also illuminates the potential revenue that the tourism industry imbues into the national economy. This single number, therefore, holds the power to underline the pivotal role of international tourism as an income generator and economic stabilizer for Mexico, providing aspiring visitors, policy makers, investors, and stakeholders with a tangible measure of the sector’s significance.

In 2019, over 100,000 people were directly employed in the hotel and restaurant sector in Quintana Roo, the Mexican state with the highest number of employees in this sector.

Reflecting upon the enchanting allure of Mexico’s tourism industry, one cannot overlook the compelling significance of the striking statistic – over 100,000 individuals found direct employment in the hotel and restaurant sector in Quintana Roo in 2019. This not only underlines Quintana Roo’s dominant role in Mexico’s hospitality trade, but it vividly paints the extent to which the state’s economy hinges on tourism. It goes beyond merely relating figures and fiercely evokes a vibrant picture of bustling hotels, thriving restaurants, and job opportunities galore—each underlining the relentless pulse of Quintana Roo as the heart of Mexico’s tourism.

In 2019, Mexico City had the largest number of hotel rooms in the country, with about 50 thousand.

Highlighting that Mexico City housed around 50 thousand hotel rooms in 2019 paints a vivid picture of the city’s enormous potential as a tourism hub within the country. The sheer volume of accommodations is a testament to the city’s popularity amongst travelers, catering to their diverse needs and budgets. Furthermore, this figure underlines the tourism industry’s massive economic contribution and signifies the city’s readiness to accommodate the inflow of millions of tourists. Thus, in a narrative of Mexico’s tourism trends, this detail adds weight, setting the stage for underscoring Mexico City’s role as a prime tourist hotspot.

Rural tourism in Mexico generated more than 185 million U.S. dollars in 2018.

Highlighting ‘Rural tourism in Mexico generated more than 185 million U.S. dollars in 2018’ serves as an enlightening metric in our exploration of Mexico’s tourism landscape. It underscores a substantial economic contribution, declaring rural tourism as a significant player in Mexico’s tourism sector. Not only does this fact refocus the spotlight on lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path destinations, but it also emphasizes a growing global trend of tourists seeking unspoiled landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. This revenue figure is a testament to the potential and vitality of rural tourism as a catalyst for socio-economic development in often overlooked communities.

The State of Mexico received the most national tourists in 2019, with more than 21 million visitors.

Highlighting the impressive figure of over 21 million national tourists flocking to the State of Mexico in 2019 underpins the state’s popularity and dominance in Mexico’s tourism industry. This figure not only showcases the state’s magnetic appeal among its compatriots, but also implies its potential to attract international visitors. It provides a quantitative evidence of which regions are experiencing a tourism boom, and may serve to guide future travelers, industry investments, and government initiatives regarding tourism management and development. Therefore, this statistic plays an integral role in comprehending the ebb and flow of Mexico’s tourism sector and the influential role of the State of Mexico within it.

Medical tourism in Mexico attracts up to a million people a year.

The glowing intrigue of medical tourism in Mexico, enticing upwards of a million visitors annually, bolsters Mexico’s dimensionality within the tourism industry. Nestled within this striking number are valuable narratives of a destination offering more than leisure travel; it unveils a multi-layered lens into the far-reaching appeal of Mexico. This amalgamation of healthcare and tourism can help transform the perception of Mexico in the market of holidaymakers, potentially contributing to a diverse tourism growth trajectory for the nation. As we delve into Mexican tourism statistics, this figure underscores a captivating crossover point between health and travel, enriching the country’s tourism landscape with broader, alternative travel motivations.

Only 1% of total visitors to Mexico in 2019 were from Asia.

Unfolding a fascinating narrative within Mexico’s tourism landscape, the statistic that merely 1% of total visitors to Mexico in 2019 hailed from Asia paints an enlightening portrait of geopolitical travel trends. It provides a revealing insight into the international dynamics and preferences influencing Mexico’s tourism industry. This low percentage signifies a potentially untapped market for Mexico’s culture-rich and diverse tourism offerings, or alternatively, might suggest a lack of promotional outreach in Asian regions. In mapping the demographics of Mexico’s visitors, such specifics enhance our comprehension of the global positioning and potential growth sectors within Mexico’s tourism sector.

Cruise ships brought 7.2 million visitors to Mexico in 2019.

Unveiling an impressive figure, the influx of 7.2 million visitors to Mexico via cruise ships in 2019 undeniably specifies the allure and the magnetism exerted by Mexico’s breathtaking coastlines and touristic vibrancy. When contextualized within the framework of Mexico Tourism Statistics, this value is a vibrant testament to the country’s increasingly influential standing as a cherished destination for worldwide cruise travelers. This statistic acts as a bulletproof testament of Mexico’s expanding appeal and its impressive ability to draw a substantial share of international tourism, thereby bolstering its economy and heightening its prominence across the global travel and tourism industry.

About 20% of international tourists visit Mexico for business reasons.

Reflecting on Mexico’s vibrant tourism sector, we can’t overlook the intriguing tidbit that roughly one in five international tourists across the border for business-related pursuits. Noticeably, this interesting fact underscores Mexico’s growing economic allure globally, not merely as a holiday destination, but as a hub of professional activities and opportunities. Hence, it offers a nuanced perspective of the touristic allure of Mexico, emphasizing its evolving attractiveness spanning beyond leisure tourism to significant business tourism. This takes the blog post beyond commonplace tourist statistics, providing a more comprehensive view of Mexico’s multifaceted tourism sector.

The number of international tourists in Mexico experienced a negative growth of 46.7% in 2020 as compared to the previous year due to the pandemic.

Unveiling a striking truth, the statistic of a 46.7% plunge in international tourists visiting Mexico in 2020, when juxtaposed to the prior year’s number, paints a stark portrait of the pandemic’s profound impact on the nation’s tourism industry. This significant decline dramatically underscores the immense challenge the tourism sector faces in its recovery journey, providing crucial context for understanding the depth of the crisis. Furthermore, it illuminates the extent to which the social and economic fabric of Mexico, heavily reliant on tourism revenue, has been disrupted, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative revitalization strategies.

Conclusion

Mexico’s tourism industry, viewed through the lens of presented statistics, evidently plays an indubitable role in the country’s economic and social growth. The dramatic increase in international and domestic tourists, as well as the consistent rise in tourism-related revenues, underscores its role as a vital contributor to Mexico’s GDP. However, the element of seasonality in tourism, its susceptibility to global economic shocks, and pandemic outbreaks necessitate strategic and diversified tourism development. It indisputably proves the urgent necessity for Mexico to further optimize its tourism resources and management strategies for sustainable development.

References

0. – https://www.www.researchgate.net

1. – https://www.www.macrotrends.net

2. – https://www.www.worldbank.org

3. – https://www.www.wttc.org

4. – https://www.www.inegi.org.mx

5. – https://www.www.cepal.org

6. – https://www.www.cruisetradenews.com

7. – https://www.www.statista.com

8. – https://www.www.VisitMexico.com

9. – https://www.www.prnewswire.com

10. – https://www.knoema.com

FAQs

What is the number of tourists who visited Mexico in recent years?

Mexico recorded a total of 45 million international tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism numbers significantly dropped in 2020.

What is the contribution of tourism to Mexico's GDP?

Tourism contributes significantly to Mexico's GDP. In 2018, it accounted for 17.2% of the country's GDP.

What are the most visited locations in Mexico by tourists?

According to statistics, the most visited places in Mexico are Cancun, Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta.

Which countries provide the most tourists to Mexico?

The United States is the leading source of tourists to Mexico, followed by Canada, the United Kingdom, Argentina, and Colombia in recent statistics.

How many Mexicans are employed in the tourism industry?

The National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) reported that 2.3 million Mexican people were employed in the tourism industry in 2020.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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