Mazatlán closes summer with positive results; new routes and events boost year-end tourism

Mazatlán is closing the summer season on a high note, with tourism officials anticipating a strong finish to the year. The coastal city is set to bolster its tourism sector through the introduction of new air routes, a slate of upcoming events, and targeted promotional campaigns, according to Carlos Berdegué Sacristán, vice president of the Association of Hotels and Tourist Companies of Mazatlán.

Berdegué highlighted the successful collaboration between the hotel industry and the Sinaloa Ministry of Tourism, which has improved the destination's connectivity. This summer saw the debut of two routes from Canada, while the Volaris flight connecting Guadalajara and Mazatlán has become established and will increase its seating capacity starting in November. Additionally, the route to Torreón has been reinstated, and discussions are ongoing with Viva Aerobus and Aeroméxico to add more flights from Monterrey, Tijuana, and Mexico City.

Looking ahead to the final four months of the year, Mazatlán aims to attract groups and conventions, while also promoting sporting and gastronomic events. Internationally, Air Canada will launch its first-ever route from Vancouver, bringing the total number of Canadian airlines serving Mazatlán to three. The sector is also focused on regaining the U.S. market, which saw a decline of approximately 8% last winter. A promotional strategy with online travel agencies like Expedia and BestDay is in place, allocating funds for destination promotion from August to December to drive direct hotel bookings.

Berdegué noted that most hotels have managed to maintain or even increase their rates, with road tourism playing a significant role in sustaining visitor numbers. Chihuahua remains the primary source market for this type of travel, followed by Torreón, Durango, Sinaloa, and Jalisco. Cruise lines have also announced an increase in their frequency of visits to Mazatlán. "We have the responsibility to care for our city and continue promoting it," Berdegué stated.

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We have the responsibility to care for our city and continue promoting it.