TEPIC, NAYARIT (July 8, 2025) — The state of Nayarit will welcome its first-ever direct flight from Canada this December, with WestJet launching a new weekly route between Calgary and the Tepic/Riviera Nayarit International Airport.
The new international route, announced Tuesday by the Government of the State of Nayarit, will connect Calgary, Alberta, with Tepic/Riviera Nayarit, marking the first direct air link between Canada and the state. Canadian airline WestJet will operate the service beginning Dec. 13, with weekly Saturday flights and a capacity of 189 passengers per flight.
Flight schedule:
- Calgary to Tepic/Riviera Nayarit (TPQ): Departs 10:30 a.m., arrives 3:34 p.m.
- Tepic/Riviera Nayarit to Calgary: Departs 4:45 p.m., arrives 9:52 p.m.
“We are pleased to announce the launch of a new direct route between Calgary and the Tepic–Riviera Nayarit International Airport, operated by WestJet. This historic flight marks the first direct connection between Canada and the state of Nayarit, representing a major milestone in the expansion of international tourism to the region”, said Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero, governor of Nayarit. “This new route makes it easier for Canadian travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and sunny beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and the entire state. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the warmth, beauty, and vibrant traditions that make Nayarit a truly unique destination.”
“As Calgary’s hometown airline and leading carrier, WestJet is dedicated to delivering the convenient connections and exceptional value our guests expect,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.
Often overshadowed by the more visited Riviera Nayarit beach destinations, like Nuevo Nayarit, Punta Mita, and Sayulita, the interior of the state offers a completely different experience. Tepic, Nayarit’s capital city, is a launchpad for adventures that blend the historic, the mystical, and the delicious. Now, with this direct connection from Calgary, travelers can skip the crowds and dive straight into a region teeming with Magical Towns, volcanic lakes, ancient traditions, and pristine coastline.
A New Kind of Mexican Getaway
From Tepic, travelers are within striking distance of some of Nayarit’s most fascinating destinations. In just 30 minutes, you can find yourself watching the waves roll in at Matanchen Bay or sipping coffee in the sleepy seaside village of Aticama. A scenic 40-minute drive takes you to the crater lake of Santa María del Oro, a sparkling turquoise gem perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding by the water.
History buffs and culture lovers can explore the cobblestone streets of Compostela and Jala, both designated Pueblos Mágicos for their cultural richness and well-preserved heritage. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit Mexcaltitán, the mystical island town thought to be the legendary Aztlán, birthplace of the Aztecs. Just 90 minutes from Tepic, this “Venice of Mexico” offers a surreal, waterbound village experience that’s unlike anything else in the country.
Nature enthusiasts can head to Presa Aguamilpa, just 50 minutes from the capital, to fish, birdwatch, or enjoy boat rides among the verdant Sierra Madre landscapes. And for those craving sun and surf, Platanitos, Chacala, and Guayabitos, beachfront paradises often overlooked by international tourists, are all reachable in under two hours by car.
My Beautiful Nayarit: Curated Adventures Await
To help visitors make the most of this newly accessible region, Nayarit Adventures has launched an immersive four-day, three-night package called My Beautiful Nayarit. Designed to showcase
the state’s cultural depth and ecological wonders, the package includes hotel accommodations and guided tours for travelers flying into Tepic. For guests originating in other cities or states, the package also includes private transfers to Tepic.
The thoughtfully curated itinerary explores:
San Blas: A historic port town with colonial architecture, mangrove estuaries, and spectacular sunsets.
Coral Islands at Rincón de Guayabitos: A protected marine sanctuary offering excellent snorkeling and birdwatching.
El Nayar: A journey into the traditions of the Cora and Huichol Indigenous communities, rich with ritual and handicrafts.
Santa María del Oro: A day of leisure and adventure at the region’s iconic volcanic crater lake. Culinary and Cultural Riches
Nayarit’s gastronomy is another draw for travelers in the know. In Tepic, indulge in local
specialties like zarandeado fish, slathered in local spices and grilled over an open flame, and pacholas, a spiced meat dish served with handmade tortillas. Coastal towns offer fresh seafood pulled straight from the Pacific, while mountain villages produce cheeses, coffees, and sweets that reflect generations of artisanal expertise.
Meanwhile, festivals and religious celebrations bring towns to life with color, music, and centuries-old traditions. Whether it’s the Danza de los Mexicas or sacred Huichol ceremonies, there’s always something beautiful to witness.
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, Nayarit is a state of remarkable diversity. From surfing in Sayulita to birdwatching in San Blas, from the folkloric traditions of the Sierra to the boutique resorts of the coast, Nayarit delivers a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveler. With new infrastructure, growing international connectivity, and renewed focus on sustainable tourism, the state is ready to welcome the world, starting with this new flight.
For more information about the State of Nayarit, visit visitnayarit.travel. To learn more about the My Beautiful Nayarit package, visit nayaritadventures.com.
