How Virtual Tours Increase Hotel Bookings by 35%

In Costa Rica's competitive hospitality market, standing out to international travelers is more important than ever. Our data shows that properties with 360° virtual tours see an average 35% increase in direct bookings. Here's why—and how you can achieve similar results.

The Problem: Travelers Can't Trust Photos

We've all seen it: hotel photos that show a "spacious suite" that turns out to be barely larger than a closet. Travelers have become skeptical of traditional photography, and for good reason. According to a 2024 travel industry survey:

• 67% of travelers believe hotel photos are misleading
• 54% read negative reviews specifically about room size and views
• 78% would book with more confidence if they could virtually explore the property

The Solution: Immersive Transparency

360° virtual tours solve this trust problem by giving potential guests complete transparency. When visitors can virtually "walk through" your property, they know exactly what to expect. This leads to:

Case Study: Junglo Resort & Spa

When Junglo Resort & Spa in La Fortuna implemented our virtual tour, they saw immediate results. The interactive tour allows guests to:

• Explore different room categories before selecting
• Preview the spa, restaurant, and pool areas
• Experience the jungle surroundings virtually

Within three months, the resort reported a 32% increase in direct bookings through their website, reducing their dependency on OTA commissions.

Experience the Junglo Resort virtual tour →

Why International Travelers Love Virtual Tours

For Costa Rica properties, the majority of guests come from international markets—primarily the US, Canada, and Europe. These travelers:

• Book 3-6 months in advance
• Cannot easily visit in person before booking
• Are making significant financial investments in their trip
• Want to minimize surprises and maximize the experience

A virtual tour gives them the confidence to book directly with your property rather than through an OTA, saving you commission fees and building direct customer relationships.

Getting Started

Implementing a virtual tour for your property is straightforward. Most shoots can be completed in a single day, with the final tour delivered within a week. The investment typically pays for itself within the first few months through increased direct bookings.