Belize Tourism 2024: A Comparative Analysis
As we delve into the current state of the Belize tourism industry, we can draw meaningful insights from four key data points provided by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB). By comparing 2024’s figures to those from 2019—the peak year for tourism in Belize—we can better understand the landscape of our vibrant tourism sector.
1. Overnight Arrivals: A Significant Recovery
In 2024, Belize is witnessing a remarkable recovery in overnight arrivals. By July, 80% of tourists were arriving through Goldson International Airport, which now offers direct flights from 28 airports worldwide. Impressively, we’ve experienced a 112% recovery compared to 2019 and a 23% increase over 2023. This surge positions 2024 as potentially the busiest year for tourism in Belize’s history.
2. Destination Insights: Where Tourists Are Going
Understanding where tourists are flocking helps us identify investment opportunities and market trends. So far in 2024, Ambergris Caye (San Pedro) has attracted nearly 28% of all visitors, totaling over 100,000 arrivals. Caye Caulker follows with 13.8%, while the Cayo District accounts for 14.59%. Given the limited land available in the islands compared to the mainland, property values in these prime locations are likely to rise.
3. Occupancy and Room Rates: Record Highs
The occupancy rates and average room rates in Ambergris Caye are particularly noteworthy. As of June 2024, occupancy has reached an impressive 56.2%, surpassing 2019’s rates. The average daily rate stands at $270.21, marking nearly a $50 increase from 2019. This upward trend is promising for property owners and investors, signaling strong market performance.
4. RevPAR: A Key Metric for Hotels
Revenue per available room (RevPAR) is a crucial metric for assessing the financial health of hospitality properties. Although specific past RevPAR statistics are unavailable, preliminary data suggests that 2024 may see record highs, especially given the strong occupancy and average room rate figures.
Conclusion: The Future of Belize’s Tourism
The data highlights an undeniable trend: Belize’s tourism is not just recovering but thriving. For agents and investors, this is a crucial time to explore the opportunities that arise from a growing market. Don’t miss out—now is the time to act as property values continue to climb.
For a more in-depth analysis, check out our full video where we break down these statistics and explore their implications further.
If you’re interested in investment opportunities or want to learn more about the market, feel free to reach out via email. Let’s discuss how you can take advantage of this exciting growth in Belize!