Winter Outlook & Developments in Mazatlán for 2025–2026
As the 2025–2026 winter season approaches, Mazatlán is gearing up for an impressive influx of international travelers. According to forecasts by Sosa Osuna, the city anticipates hosting 146,319 international arrivals, bolstered by 172,140 international air seats available from October to April. Among these developments, Canadian routes are notably expanding, with new and returning flights from Toronto, Calgary, Montreal, and more. This surge in air travel has resulted in projected cabin occupancy rates increasing from 81% to 85%, indicating strong demand for this sun-soaked destination.
Mazatlán is also experiencing a hospitality boom, with the construction of 11 new hotels and over 2,100 additional rooms. This construction is expected to cater to the increasing number of visitors, particularly during the winter months. The city has welcomed a remarkable 214,000 cruise passengers in the first half of 2025, highlighting the growing appeal of its scenic coastlines and thriving tourism sector. Additionally, Mazatlán’s cultural districts and gastronomic offerings are expanding, creating new opportunities for immersive travel experiences.
Traveling during the shoulder seasons offers a unique experience for Canadian visitors. “The weather is still beautiful, the beaches are quieter, and hotel rates are often more competitive,” Sosa Osuna notes. This quieter season is ideal for those wanting to explore at a leisurely pace and participate in eco-tours or cultural events while avoiding large crowds.
Safety Measures in Mazatlán
While some regions in Mexico face travel advisories, Sosa Osuna assures that Mazatlán is a safe and welcoming destination for Canadian tourists. She explains that the city is geographically and contextually separated from higher-risk areas, and popular tourist zones—such as the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), Centro Histórico, and Marina district—benefit from extensive security measures. These areas are well-patrolled, backed by local and federal support to ensure safety.
Despite updated travel advisories from Canadian authorities, all routes from Canada to Mazatlán maintained an impressive occupancy rate exceeding 95%. Both U.S. and Canadian governments have issued guidance urging caution, but tourist zones in Mazatlán have continued to operate safely. Visitors are encouraged to explore well-known tourist areas and place their trust in the experience of the local tourism sector.
In collaboration with local security forces, Mazatlán has implemented a multi-agency safety initiative called the Blue Code. This program unifies agencies such as the Ministry of Tourism of the State of Sinaloa, local police, the National Guard, and the Red Cross, with a focus on preventing crime, coordinating responses, and assisting visitors throughout their stay. A key component of this initiative is the Blue Line, a painted pathway that guides travelers from the port to the Centro Histórico, ensuring local personnel accompany visitors as they explore the area.
Support for Travel Agents
Travel agents play a pivotal role in Mazatlán’s tourism strategy, according to Sosa Osuna. The city actively offers marketing toolkits, training webinars, co-op opportunities, and familiarization (FAM) trips, allowing agents to represent the destination with confidence. Real-time updates on air travel, hotel developments, and promotional campaigns are provided to Canadian partners to enhance their knowledge and support.
“Agents are our frontline ambassadors, and we consider them essential partners in Mazatlán’s ongoing growth,” Sosa Osuna emphasizes. For further information and resources geared towards travel professionals, consult www.visitmazatlan.travel.
Experience the best of Mazatlán this winter and find out why this vibrant destination continues to attract travelers from around the globe. From its cultural richness to unrivaled hospitality, Mazatlán remains a top choice for winter getaways.
