Enhancements in the Embrace It Program in Baja California Sur
The Embrace It program, which supports tourism initiatives in Baja California Sur, recently underwent an update, increasing the per-person fee for international visitors from 470 to 488 Mexican pesos. This adjustment became effective on January 1, 2026, marking a positive trend in promoting sustainable tourism. The funds collected through this program will be dedicated to vital areas such as environmental protection, tourism infrastructure, and various social and cultural projects.
Key Statistics from Recent Payments
According to data collected from July to December of the previous year, the majority of visitors participating in the Embrace It program hailed from North America, with 77.1% originating from the United States and 17.5% from Canada. This demographic insight emphasizes the importance of North American tourism to Baja California Sur.
Visitor Age and Behavior
The program has predominantly attracted adult travelers, particularly those aged 45 to 59 (30.25%) and seniors over 60 (29.94%). Additionally, payment patterns suggest that travelers are most active on Fridays, with the average length of stay typically being around seven days.
Contribution Details and Regulations
As stipulated in the state treasury law, the tourism contribution applies to all international visitors aged 12 and over who enter Baja California Sur via air or land and plan to stay longer than 24 hours. The payment process is entirely digital, requiring visitors to settle their contributions online prior to their arrival or upon entering the region. Upon completing payment, tourists receive an electronic certificate with a QR code, facilitating verification during their stay or at entry points.
Positive Visitor Experience Feedback
Hugo Chapoy Córdova, the Director of Revenue at Tourist Tax México, which oversees the Embrace It platform, expressed satisfaction regarding the program's reception. Data shows that tourists are adhering to the payment expectations, showcasing responsible behavior with advance payments being common. This reflects positively on the state’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism approaches.
Understanding Visitor Trends
The aggregated data from the Embrace It program indicates that a significant portion of visitors settles their contributions in advance. A majority of these payments occur one to two weeks prior to arrival (32.80%), while a notable 27.39% pay four to six days beforehand. It's also observed that only a minor percentage, 5.41%, pay on the day of their trip, signifying a trend towards organized travel planning.
Long Stays and Responsible Tourism
In evaluating visitor stays, seven-day trips were the most common (27.14%), followed by four-day (19.68%) and five-day (15.44%) visits. This data not only illustrates tourist preferences but also aids in the strategic planning of tourism services and resources in the region.
Collaboration in Promoting Responsible Tourism
The Embrace It program operates under the One Voice initiative, fostering collaboration between the state government, private sectors, and the tourism industry. The collective aim is to deliver a consistent message emphasizing the importance of the tourism contribution while also advocating for the protection of the region's natural resources.
About the Organizations Involved
Tourist Tax México, S.A. de C.V. is dedicated to providing technological and administrative solutions aimed at improving tax collection efficiency related to tourism through its digital platforms. Similarly, Travelkore serves as a global technology provider that manages tourism tax payments to ensure compliance with regulations while offering a user-friendly experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Embrace It program?
The Embrace It program is a tourism contribution initiative for international visitors to Baja California Sur aimed at funding environmental and cultural projects.
How much is the contribution for international visitors?
The contribution for international visitors has been updated to 488 Mexican pesos per person.
Who is required to pay this contribution?
International visitors aged 12 and above who stay for more than 24 hours are required to pay this contribution.
How can visitors make the payment?
Payment must be made online prior to arrival or at entry points, generating an electronic certificate for verification.
Why is this program important?
This program helps fund essential environmental and social projects, promoting sustainable tourism in Baja California Sur.
