Puerto Rico Joins Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Curaçao, Guyana, and Other Caribbean Destinations in Experiencing a Surge in Tourist Arrivals in the First Month of 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Published on
February 7, 2026
In January 2025, the Puerto Rico joined Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Curaçao, Guyana, and other Caribbean destinations in experiencing a surge in tourist arrivals. This impressive increase highlights the Caribbean’s enduring appeal, as travelers flock to these regions despite global challenges in the tourism industry. The surge can be attributed to the region’s natural beauty, diverse cultural offerings, and ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for international visitors. As Caribbean countries continue to strengthen their tourism sectors, this growth signals a strong start to the year for these popular destinations.
Puerto Rico: Maintaining Momentum with Consistent Growth
Puerto Rico has maintained its momentum in tourism, with record international growth in 2025, including a 72% increase in travelers from Spain. Although January’s specific figures are still being finalized, the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. (PRTC) indicated at FITUR 2026 that the island continues to see strong trends with a 3% increase in arrivals compared to 2025. Puerto Rico’s continued popularity stems from its unique blend of Latin culture, natural beauty, and accessibility. As a U.S. territory, it offers the convenience of no passport requirements for U.S. citizens, which is a significant advantage. Its iconic beaches, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage remain major attractions for international visitors. Puerto Rico has also been investing in promoting eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and luxury travel experiences, further enhancing its appeal to global tourists. The ongoing development of the island’s infrastructure and the expansion of direct flight options have also contributed to the steady increase in arrivals, ensuring Puerto Rico remains a top destination for travelers.
The Bahamas: A Tropical Retreat with Rising Appeal
The Bahamas continues to attract an increasing number of visitors, with over 1.0 million arrivals in 2025, reflecting an 11% growth in international travel. The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (MOTIA) attributes this surge to the country’s continued focus on luxury tourism, its pristine beaches, and the convenience of direct flights from major North American cities. As one of the most accessible Caribbean destinations, the Bahamas has become a popular choice for short getaways, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and vibrant cultural experiences. The islands’ investment in tourism infrastructure, including luxury resorts and sustainable tourism initiatives, has paid off, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking an escape from the ordinary. The Bahamas’ commitment to providing world-class experiences while promoting eco-friendly travel is further boosting its appeal among international tourists, particularly those from the U.S. market. As the country continues to evolve its tourism offerings, the Bahamas remains poised for continued growth in 2026 and beyond.
Dominican Republic: A Record-Breaking Start to 2026
The Dominican Republic has kicked off 2026 with a record-breaking start, welcoming 1,155,485 visitors in January, marking an impressive 8% increase compared to January 2025. According to the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR) and Minister David Collado, this surge in visitors included 759,929 arriving by air and 395,555 via cruise ships. This robust growth is especially notable considering the broader challenges in the U.S. market, their primary source of tourists, which experienced severe flight cancellations during the same period. The Dominican Republic’s success can be attributed to its ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure and its appeal as a year-round vacation destination with everything from stunning beaches to rich cultural offerings. Additionally, the government has worked to enhance air connectivity and promote sustainable tourism practices. The country’s ability to attract such a large influx of tourists, even amid international disruptions, reflects its enduring popularity and resilience, cementing its position as a regional leader in Caribbean tourism.
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Jamaica: Resilient Recovery After Hurricane Melissa
Jamaica is enjoying a strong rebound in tourism, with over 500,000 visitors welcomed in January 2026, according to the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) and Minister Edmund Bartlett. This recovery comes after a challenging period following Hurricane Melissa in late 2025. While the island’s tourism infrastructure was temporarily affected, nearly 70% of its hotel inventory is currently operational, showcasing the island’s resilience. The island is seeing a steady increase in international arrivals, as travelers are drawn to its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and dynamic music scene. Despite the challenges posed by the hurricane season, Jamaica remains one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations. This “robust rebound” in January is a clear sign that the tourism sector is on the path to recovery, and the government’s continued efforts to enhance the tourist experience are paying off. Jamaica’s commitment to strengthening its tourism infrastructure and marketing strategy has been pivotal in attracting travelers from key markets such as the U.S. and Europe.
Curaçao: A New Record in Tourist Arrivals
Curaçao has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025, with approximately 80,000 visitors arriving on the island, setting a new record for the country. According to the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), this surge in arrivals reflects the growing appeal of the island’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique Caribbean charm. Known for its picturesque beaches, colorful Dutch colonial architecture, and vibrant music scene, Curaçao has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. The island’s commitment to sustainable tourism, along with its investment in marketing and infrastructure, has driven its success. The record-breaking number of visitors in 2025 demonstrates the country’s ability to attract travelers despite challenges faced by the global tourism industry. Curaçao continues to position itself as a top Caribbean destination, offering diverse experiences for tourists, including diving, exploring the island’s rich history, and enjoying its unique cultural festivals. With ongoing efforts to promote the island, Curaçao is well on its way to becoming an even more significant player in Caribbean tourism.
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Guyana: The Caribbean’s Growth Leader
Guyana stands out as the region’s growth leader in 2026, with a 17.2% increase in tourist arrivals in January, totaling 34,923 visitors. As reported by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce (MINTIC), Guyana’s impressive growth is largely driven by its 38% share from the U.S. market. The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has worked relentlessly to promote the country’s natural beauty, adventure tourism, and vibrant cultural heritage. Its unique offerings, such as pristine rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and eco-tourism experiences, have become key draws for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. Guyana’s rise in popularity is part of the country’s broader goal to attract 550,000 visitors by the end of 2026. With continued efforts in marketing and infrastructure development, Guyana is poised to become a must-visit destination in the Caribbean, especially as more international travelers discover the country’s rich and diverse tourism offerings.
Caribbean Tourism: A Thriving Hub for Global Travelers
Caribbean tourism continues to thrive, with many destinations experiencing impressive growth in tourist arrivals despite global challenges. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, Guyana, Jamaica, and Curaçao are leading the charge in attracting travelers. The region’s natural beauty, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures, draws millions of visitors each year. The Caribbean also offers a diverse range of experiences, from luxurious resorts and world-class dining to adventure activities like snorkeling, hiking, and exploring historical landmarks. In recent years, the Caribbean has invested heavily in sustainable tourism initiatives and improving infrastructure, making it even more accessible and appealing to international travelers. With a rich blend of cultures, lively festivals, and breathtaking landscapes, the Caribbean remains a top choice for those seeking a memorable and rejuvenating vacation.
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In January 2025, the Puerto Rico joined Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Curaçao, Guyana, and other Caribbean destinations in experiencing a surge in tourist arrivals. This growth reflects the Caribbean’s appeal and ongoing tourism investments.
Conclusion
Puerto Rico, alongside Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Curaçao, Guyana, and other Caribbean destinations, saw a significant surge in tourist arrivals in January 2025. This growth highlights the region’s enduring attractiveness, driven by its natural beauty, diverse cultural experiences, and ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure. As these destinations continue to evolve and offer unique travel experiences, the Caribbean remains a top choice for international travelers seeking vibrant, accessible, and enriching vacations. This early surge sets a positive tone for the rest of 2025, signaling strong prospects for Caribbean tourism.
