Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco—As the Day of the Dead festivities concluded, Puerto Vallarta emerged as one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations for the celebration, according to the Federal Ministry of Tourism (Sectur). Among beach locales, it achieved the highest hotel occupancy rates during the festive period.
From Friday, November 1 to Sunday, November 3, Puerto Vallarta saw hotel occupancy reach an impressive 81.2%, surpassing other renowned beach destinations like Cancún and Mazatlán, both at 81.1%. This surge contributed to an estimated economic impact of 2.048 billion pesos from lodging alone. When factoring in spending on other tourist services, the total economic impact nationwide is projected to reach 25.605 billion pesos.
Sectur reported that approximately 3.127 million tourists traveled across Mexico during the Day of the Dead weekend. Hotel occupancy averaged 63.8% nationally, marking a 0.4 percentage point increase from the same period in 2023, which stood at 63.4%. The number of tourists staying in hotels is estimated at 1.232 million, comprising 958,000 domestic tourists (77.8%) and 274,000 international visitors (22.2%). This represents a 4.3% increase compared to 2023.
In addition to hotel guests, about 2.29 million domestic tourists opted for alternative accommodations, such as staying with family and friends or in second homes, further boosting local economies.
Other key tourist centers also reported high occupancy rates:
- Oaxaca: 83.4%
- Pátzcuaro, Michoacán: 82.0%
- Los Cabos, Baja California Sur: 79.6%
- Mérida, Yucatán: 78.7%
- Mexico City: 76.0%
- Morelia, Michoacán: 74.4%
- San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato: 74.3%
- Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes: 71.6%
- Puebla, Puebla: 70.5%
Sectur emphasized the cultural and economic significance of the Day of the Dead celebrations. “This festivity is an invaluable opportunity to connect tourists with communities across Mexico, especially indigenous peoples, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach all Mexican people,” the agency stated.
Local businesses and artisans in Puerto Vallarta reported increased sales, attributing the boost to both national and international visitors eager to experience traditional altars, parades, and culinary offerings unique to the Day of the Dead.
As Mexico continues to showcase its rich cultural heritage, destinations like Puerto Vallarta play a crucial role in promoting tourism and supporting local economies during significant national celebrations.
