As Canadian travel to Los Cabos experiences unprecedented growth, the Los Cabos Tourism Board is actively pursuing enhanced airlift options from Canada, particularly targeting regions such as Ontario and Quebec. Recent reports highlight that the number of Canadian visitors is set to surpass 240,000 in 2025, a notable increase from 200,000 in 2024, representing a remarkable 20% growth rate compared to the previous year’s 11%.
“The influx of visitors from the eastern provinces aligns perfectly with our goals,” stated Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. This increased interest underlines the importance of bolstering flight options from Montreal and Toronto.
Increased Airlift Opportunities
Beginning next month, WestJet will expand its services to Los Cabos, joining Air Canada in offering flights from both Montreal and Toronto. Esponda is in discussions to secure year-round flights, enhancing accessibility for travelers from Eastern Canada, beyond the winter season.
Current data indicates that nearly 41% of Canadian traffic to Los Cabos originates from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), while Calgary International Airport (YYC) accounts for 26.5%, and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) contributes 16%. “Strengthening our connections from the east will drive more Canadian tourists to our destination as we’ve already established solid routes from the west,” Esponda noted.
Moreover, conversations are ongoing with Porter Airlines to expand services, particularly from Montreal and Toronto, where demand is at its peak.
Canadians’ Preferences
Research indicates that Canadian travelers favor direct flights to Los Cabos, typically enjoying longer stays compared to their American counterparts. While Americans stay an average of 5.7 days, Canadians linger for about 10.2 days, significantly enhancing their contribution to the local economy.
Rebeca del Pino, Director of Strategic Partnerships for Sunwing Vacations Group, highlighted that Sunwing and WestJet together dominate the Canadian market for flights to Los Cabos. Together, they anticipate transporting around 140,000 travelers to the region for the winter 2025-2026 season.
The Allure of Los Cabos
Barbara Polanco, Product Manager for WestJet Vacations, emphasized that Los Cabos is a premium destination significant for the airline, particularly from Alberta and British Columbia. “Los Cabos offers unique adventures, sustainability activities, and traditional water sports, appealing to a quality-seeking segment of the Canadian market,” she explained.
Esponda reaffirmed the destination’s diverse offerings, from stunning beaches to rich cultural experiences, exemplified by the historical town of San Jose, which boasts vibrant art galleries and fine dining. Coinciding with the increased interest, Jorge Felix Salazar, Sales Manager at The Special Travel Corporation, reported that the company, which caters to approximately 3,300 Canadian travel agents, plans to significantly expand its portfolio of Los Cabos properties.
Investment in Los Cabos
Exciting developments are underway with an estimated US $900 million in investments aimed at enhancing the destination’s appeal. Over the next few years, Los Cabos plans to introduce more than 1,200 luxury rooms, accommodating the rising demand.
Notable recent openings include the Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol and the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, with additional resorts such as the Tropicana Los Cabos and Four Seasons Resort slated to welcome guests in 2024.
Future highlights include the opening of Soho House & Beach Club, St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira, and a luxury retail and dining haven, Anima Village, set to launch in December near the Park Hyatt.
For more detailed insights about the Los Cabos VIP Summit and the tourism opportunities in the region, please visit VisitLosCabos.travel.
