Overview
- The Chamber of Tourism reported nationwide hotel occupancy near 70% in January, with many destinations peaking above 90% in the second half of the month.
- Coastal results diverged, with Pinamar around 85% and Cariló near 90% versus Mar del Plata at roughly 65% to 70%, and February rates are more negotiable outside the Carnival window with reported cuts of about 20% to 30%.
- Córdoba logged more than 2.4 million visitors, roughly 20% above January 2025, while Patagonia and Litoral hubs such as Bariloche and Iguazú also posted strong figures.
- Operators sustained volumes by moderating price increases, offering financing and running promotions, which compressed profit margins despite solid occupancy.
- Salta’s ministry data showed about 9,000 fewer visitors year over year and local entrepreneurs disputed official occupancy levels, as businesses across regions stressed that Carnival could deliver the decisive demand spike.