Costa Rica holds its position as the most expensive destination in Central America for travelers, with average daily costs per person reaching $138. Travel cost data ranks Costa Rica first among Central American nations, followed by Belize at $125 and Panama at $94. Mid-range hotels in Costa Rica often run $150 or more per night, while comparable properties in Nicaragua typically range from $35 to $75. Upscale options remain accessible, with luxury hotels often 40-60% cheaper than similar ones in Costa Rica. The tourism industry in Costa Rica faces calls to address these cost pressures.