Panama increases hotel occupancy by 8% and generates over $6,500 million in tourism

• 10 April, 26

De León explained that this growth is the result of coordinated efforts between the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP) and PROMTUR Panama, focused on attracting new attention to the country.

Tourism in Panama is not only growing in numbers; it is also full of dynamism, movement, and opportunities. This was made clear by the administrator of the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), Gloria De León, who announced that hotel occupancy in the country increased by eight percentage points, reflecting an economic impact that exceeded $6.5 billion in tourism spending by the end of 2025.

“We have been able to increase hotel occupancy by 8 percentage points, which represents $6.5 billion in tourism spending, with which we closed 2025,” she said.

De León explained that this growth is the result of coordinated strategies between the ATP and PROMTUR Panama, aimed at attracting new audiences to the country. “This is thanks to concrete strategies within the Panama Tourism Authority, together with PROMTUR, such as partnerships with airlines, wholesalers, and tour operators, as well as our micro-targeting campaigns, which allow us to reach other markets, new people, and new potential visitors to the country,” she stated.

One of the drivers of this rebound has been the Panama Stopover program, in partnership with Copa Airlines, which has opened the door to thousands of travelers who now see the country as more than just a layover. “We increased by 25% compared to last year, which represents more than 200,000 visitors in 2025,” she indicated.

This is complemented by the ambition to transform Panama into a key hub for international events. Meanwhile, 2026 is already starting with positive signs. Figures are 14% higher than last year, according to the administrator, projecting an encouraging outlook for the sector.

With the arrival of Holy Week, the call is also inward—to rediscover the country, travel through it, and experience it. “We invite Panamanians to explore the interior and experience Holy Week, not only here in the old town, but also in other parts of the country,” she said.

“In 2025, more than 312,000 visits were recorded at the different churches in the old town. We are convinced that this year we will surpass that figure. There may be interesting variables. Hotel occupancy in the old town is at 95%, and in the interior of the country, I would also dare to say it is above 90%,” she added.

Cre: laestrella.com.pa