Holy Week in Mexico, a mosaic of religious tourism that mobilizes more than 40 million people a year

During the Easter holiday period, the Secretary of Tourism of the Government of Mexico, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, highlighted that religious tourism in the country is consolidating itself as an engine of economic and social development that promotes Shared Prosperity in communities, since it mobilizes around 40 million Mexicans annually in different destinations of the country generating an economic impact of 25 billion pesos.

“Mexico is an extraordinary country. I invite everyone to explore its beaches, its Magical Towns, to discover its culture and enjoy its cuisine. Religious tourism is fundamental: more than 40 million Mexicans participate in religious tourism activities every year,” he said.

Among the most popular destinations are the Basilica of Guadalupe, as well as San Juan de los Lagos, Juquila and Chalma, which are part of routes that integrate heritage, identity and tourist vocation.

Rodríguez Zamora emphasized that tourism not only strengthens the sector, but also promotes economic development and social well-being, in line with President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo's vision of consolidating tourism as an activity that generates Shared Prosperity for the benefit of communities.

Likewise, in Mexico City, the reenactment of the Stations of the Cross in Iztapalapa during Holy Week has become one of the country's most emblematic cultural and religious expressions. This tradition, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its community and historical value, draws millions of people each year and anticipates an influx of over two million visitors by 2026, especially on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, when the largest crowds gather.

Easter week

The head of the Ministry of Tourism reported that, according to CONCANACO SERVYTUR Mexico, an economic impact of over 300 billion pesos is projected nationwide during Holy Week 2026, driven mainly by tourism activity linked to traditions.

The government also noted that during this holiday period, from March 29 to April 12, 4.03 million tourists are expected to visit the country's main destinations, representing a 2.6 percent increase compared to the 3.93 million recorded in 2015. (Press Release 60). During this period, an average hotel occupancy rate of 63.85 percent is estimated nationwide.  

Source: SECTUR.