Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism (Sectur) reported that the state of Nayarit and the Riviera Nayarit continue to strengthen their international standing after being recognized by three leading travel publications — Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and Travel + Leisure — which included the destination among the best places to visit in 2026.
Mexico’s Minister of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, said the recognition reflects Nayarit’s appeal on the global stage, combining living nature, rich culture, warm hospitality, and unique experiences that position the state as a world-class tourism destination.
“Through Nayarit, Mexico reaffirms its leadership as a global benchmark. This destination is an example of responsible, creative tourism that looks toward the future,” she said, reiterating the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the tourism sector while protecting the natural environment, ensuring memorable visitor experiences, and sustainable regional development.
Rodríguez Zamora noted that the international accolades reinforce Nayarit’s image as a model of development, safety, and natural beauty, where tourism growth is harmoniously integrated with environmental preservation, cultural identity, and community well-being.
The Minister of Tourism also emphasized the state’s improved air connectivity, particularly following the launching of the new Tepic–Riviera Nayarit International Airport, a strategic piece of infrastructure that positions the state as a key gateway to Mexico’s Pacific coast and enhances its links to domestic and international markets.
Nayarit Governor Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero welcomed the global recognition, saying it reflects the coordinated efforts to position the state as a competitive and sustainable destination.
“I am proud to share that Riviera Nayarit and our state continue to capture the world’s attention. Nayarit has it all: living nature, culture, hospitality, and unique experiences,” he said.
Currently, Nayarit offers more than 36,000 hotel rooms in 813 establishments. In 2024, the state welcomed more than 2.7 million hotel guests, while tourism accounted for 10.7 percent of the state’s Gross Domestic Product, consolidating the sector as a strategic driver of economic development.
With this momentum, Nayarit is presenting itself to the world as an authentic, modern, and sustainable destination, moving forward with a clear vision and a strong strategy to transform its tourism development and expand its international presence in 2026.
Related: Mexico Sets New Tourism Record With 88.1 Million Visitors in First 11 Months of 2025
