Tourism is consolidating as 3rd economic force in Guanajuato

Libia inaugurates the First Mexican Forum on Social Tourism. In 2026 more than 14.6 million visitors have visited Guanajuato, with an important economic impact

“We are very proud that this first major national dialogue on social tourism is being held in our State”: Libia Dennise

Leon/Gto News

Tourism in Guanajuato represents 8.1 percent of the state’s Gross Domestic Product and has established itself as the third largest economic driver in the state.

During 2025, 23.8 million visitors were received, generating an economic impact of over 57 billion pesos.

And so far in 2026, more than 14.6 million visitors have been received, with an economic impact for 35 billion pesos, said the Governor of the People, Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo, as she led the inauguration of the First Mexican Forum on Social Tourism.

“These numbers speak to the strength of the sector. Furthermore, tourism employs more than 227,000 people in our State, 60% of whom are women,” Libia Dennise emphasized.

The Governor commented that the First Mexican Forum on Social Tourism is an event that invites reflection and action to make tourism a more accessible opportunity for more people. Because travel changes the way we see and appreciate life and its moments. And we want this experience to be within reach of more families.

After welcoming the participants to this Forum, Libia Dennise emphasized that Guanajuato is a State privileged by its history, which gave rise to the Mexico we know today; by its culture, expressed in every alleyway, every temple, and archaeological site; and also by its magnificent events, festivals, and gastronomy.

“We are the land of World Heritage cities, Magical Towns, vineyards, traditional cooks, extraordinary artisans, and a hospitality that is part of our identity. But if anything makes Guanajuato special, it is its people. The creative and supportive people who turn every visit into a memorable experience,” said the Governor.

“And today we are filled with pride that this first major national dialogue on social tourism is being held in our state. We are deeply honored to be part of the Mexican Council for Social Tourism , along with our sister states of Baja California, Mexico City, and Querétaro,” dijo Libia.

“We are distinct entities in geography, traditions, and productive vocations, but united by the same conviction. We share an extraordinary cultural, natural, and tourist wealth, and we also share the certainty that tourism goes beyond an economic activity to become our identity,” said Libia Dennise.

The Governor pointed out that when we talk about social tourism, we’re talking about something profoundly human. It’s about giving a family the chance to visit a destination within their own state for the first time, providing senior citizens with access to recreational and cultural experiences, or allowing students to discover the richness of their country. And it’s about enabling people with disabilities to find accessible spaces to fully enjoy tourism. It’s about breaking down barriers and opening up opportunities”, said Libia.

“In Guanajuato, nothing is built in terms of tourism without constantly listening to all sectors; today we are making a great team to promote tourism in our state,” said the Governor.  

“I wish you every success in this First Forum, thank you very much for being in Guanajuato,” said Libia Dennise.

“It is a space that brings us together to strengthen a shared vision: that tourism is a right, a tool for inclusion and an opportunity for development for our communities,” said the Secretary of Tourism and Identity, Maria Guadalupe Robles Leon.

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