The cold winter months at the end and beginning of the year are Costa Rica’s high season given the natural disposition to seek warmer climates. Animal migration is guided by that, and historically, retirees tend to do the same. In the case of Costa Rica, this is also the stretch of the year when there’s virtually no rain, making it perfect to visit all the wonderful natural landscapes and enjoy the incredible outdoor activities that established the country as a world-class destination.
It’s no surprise then that Canadian tourism is one of Costa Rica’s main visitation markets, particularly considering their famously harsh winters. In a strategic move to cater to the burgeoning demand and broaden travel horizons for that demographic, Guanacaste International Airport has extended operations on the route from Montreal, Canada.
Commencing on May 2, the year-round availability of this route, operated by Air Transat, beckons travelers to explore the wonders of Costa Rica. The route, marked by two flights per week on Thursdays and Sundays, boasts Air Transat’s A321 aircraft with 198 seats. Departing from Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport at 07:30 am and landing in Guanacaste at 11:30 am, the schedule is tailored to optimize the passenger experience, offering ample time to savor the beauty of the region.
Previously limited to the winter season from November to April, this extension reflects a thoughtful response to the evolving travel landscape and the desire for increased flexibility among Canadian wanderers. Guanacaste International Airport’s commitment to fortifying connectivity and propelling tourism growth in the region stands manifest in this strategic decision, as it has done throughout 2023 and 2024 with each one of its scheduling and expansion decisions.
In 2023, Costa Rica saw 242,970 Canadian tourists visit the country. On average they graced the country with a stay of 14.8 nights. Their enthusiasm contributed to an estimated average expenditure of $106 per day, exalting the economic significance of their visitation, and the strategic reasoning behind the expanded routes.
Tourists favoring the Guanacaste region can revel in a plethora of activities, from basking in the sun on pristine beaches to indulging in outdoor escapades, exploring volcanoes and hot springs, and savoring the rich tapestry of local cuisine in the iconic Blue Zone. As the news echoes across the traveler’s sphere, and Costa Rica continues its placement as one of the definitive tropical destinations, Guanacaste International Airport adapts to fulfill the growing demands that come with it. Now it’s as easy as ever to start your seamless journey to the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.