Panama's Record-Breaking Tourism: A Signal Pointing to Real Estate Opportunity

Panama received close to 1.3 million visitors between January and May 2026, a year-over-year increase of 19.2%, while tourism spending reached B/.3,226.2 million, 15.3% more than the same period in 2025, according to figures from the Directorate of Economic and Social Analysis of the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The Panama Tourism Authority projects surpassing 3.1 million arrivals this year, driven by meetings and events tourism, international conferences, and new air connectivity to the interior of the country.

This sustained flow of visitors is not just a tourism statistic: it is direct demand on vacation rentals, second homes, and hotel occupancy. Areas with strong connectivity and short-term rental supply, such as Casco Antiguo, the capital city, and interior destinations with new air routes, are gaining traction as income-generating assets as visitors stay longer and spend more. For property owners, this means a real income alternative while the property appreciates; for investors, a clear read on where demand is heading before entry prices fully catch up.

At MAKOM Capital Group we identify the areas where tourism growth is already translating into real estate opportunity. Let's talk about where it makes sense to position yourself.