Tepic’s upgraded international airport welcomes new direct flights from Canada and the U.S., offering travelers easier access to Riviera Nayarit’s hidden gems beyond Puerto Vallarta.
Travelers looking for an alternative to the packed terminals of Puerto Vallarta now have a new way to reach Mexico’s Pacific coast. Tepic/Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ) is stepping into the spotlight, with a wave of new direct flights connecting it to major cities in Canada and the U.S.
Volaris will kick off international service with nonstop flights from Los Angeles (LAX) beginning July 16. WestJet follows suit on December 13 with its first-ever Canadian route to Tepic, flying weekly from Calgary. Air Canada joins the action just days later, launching weekly service from Vancouver on December 17.
Meanwhile, United Airlines has added Tepic to its winter schedule, offering twice-weekly flights from Houston (IAH) starting December 20.
These new routes mark a turning point for Tepic’s growing airport and reflect an industry-wide trend of tapping into less saturated, experience-rich destinations.
A Rising Star in Pacific Mexico
Often overlooked in favor of more famous hotspots, Tepic and the surrounding Riviera Nayarit region offer a quieter, more authentic Mexican escape. With these new direct flights, international travelers will find it easier than ever to explore the area’s volcano-ringed lakes, historic villages, and under-the-radar beaches.
“This expansion of direct air service from Los Angeles, Calgary, Vancouver, and Houston is a game-changer for our region,” said Nayarit Governor Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero during a press conference announcing the new routes.
What Awaits Beyond Tepic
Far from the resort crowds, travelers landing at Tepic can find themselves surfing Matanchen Bay or sipping locally grown coffee in the peaceful fishing village of Aticama within just 30 minutes.
Nature lovers can head to Santa María del Oro, a stunning crater lake perfect for kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the shore, only 40 minutes from the airport. Birdwatchers and anglers might prefer a trip to Presa Aguamilpa, a reservoir about 50 minutes out, known for its ecological richness.
Culture buffs can discover colonial-era towns like Compostela and Jala — both recognized as Pueblos Mágicos — with their cobblestone streets, historic churches, and vibrant traditions. For a more unusual adventure, the island village of Mexcaltitán offers narrow canals, deep mythology, and claims to be the ancestral home of the Aztecs — all less than two hours from Tepic.
Sunseekers aren't left out either. Quiet stretches of coast like Platanitos, Chacala, and Rincón de Guayabitos are well within reach for a day trip or longer seaside stay.
Tourism Officials See Opportunity
With Puerto Vallarta’s infrastructure stretched thin by record tourism numbers, this move brings needed balance and fresh opportunity.
“By opening new flight paths into Tepic, we’re giving international travelers direct access to one of Mexico’s most diverse and undiscovered regions,” said Juan Enrique Suárez del Real Tostado, Nayarit’s Minister of Tourism. “It’s a chance to explore our Magical Towns, rich ecosystems, and cultural heritage — all without the crowds.”
Strategic Timing for Peak Season
WestJet’s new Tepic route is part of its expanded winter 2025 schedule, officially confirmed last week. Air Canada’s addition came shortly after, as an eleventh-hour inclusion to its own seasonal offerings. Both airlines appear to be positioning themselves to take advantage of growing demand for alternative Mexican destinations.
With Tepic’s upgraded airport infrastructure now ready to handle international arrivals, the city is poised to become a central hub for travelers looking to uncover a different side of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
A Fresh Gateway for Savvy Travelers
As Riviera Nayarit’s profile rises, these new flight routes to Tepic signal a clear shift: travelers are seeking less crowded, more culturally rich alternatives to the big-name resort towns.
Tepic may not have the global recognition of Puerto Vallarta — yet — but for those looking to swap tourist traps for real Mexican charm, the gate has officially opened.
