Puerto Vallarta, Mexico booked up by Canadians in January: Skyscanner trending travel destination

To start off the new year and escape the cold winter weather, Canadians have set their sights on Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for January vacations, according to Skyscanner. Information provided to Yahoo Canada revealed that Skyscanner has seen a 30 per cent month-over-month increase in flight booking from Canada to Puerto Vallarta.

According to the 2025 Skyscanner Travel Trends report, travel continues to be a priority, but in today’s economic climate Puerto Vallarta provides accessibility to more affordable luxuries. Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s travel trends and destinations expert, highlighted that this includes boutique hotels and all-inclusive resorts that have a high standard of hospitality without “breaking the bank.”

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Why is Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, a trending destination for Canadian travellers?

Puerto Vallarta is a destination that has something for different kinds of travellers, from those looking relaxation in the sun, to opportunities to experience local culture or adventures for thrill seekers.

“January is also a special time in Puerto Vallarta, as the city comes alive with cultural events and seasonal culinary delights,” Lindsay stated. “Visitors can indulge in the region’s rich cuisine, from fresh ceviche served beachside to contemporary takes on traditional Mexican dishes at hotspots like Café des Artistes and Tintoque.”

“Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food scene, paired with its stunning sunsets and mild temperatures, makes it a winter escape like no other. With convenient direct flights from major Canadian cities, Puerto Vallarta offers the perfect mix of warmth, culture, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination this January.”

From the Pacific coastline to its charming Old Town and the cobblestone streets of Zona Romántica, there’s a lot to explore. Additionally, the Sierra Madre is a great opportunity for hiking, or have a snorkelling adventure at Los Arcos National Marine Park.

How much does it cost to go to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in January from Canadian cities?

Using Skyscanner search data, the price for a direct and roundtrip flights from Toronto to Puerto Vallarta in January is currently as low as $303.

Flights from Vancouver to Puerto Vallarta can be found for $360, or $575 from Montreal.

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3 expert tips on what to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If you’ve ever wanted to get closer to the animals under the sea, Puerto Vallarta is a great place for whale watching.

“It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, where the vast Pacific becomes your front-row seat to one of the ocean’s most majestic shows,” Lindsay highlighted.

“Every moment on the water is magical, from the thrill of seeing a humpback whale breach to the quiet awe of watching their tails disappear as they ripple beneath the waves.”

Take in some of the local art by visiting galleries and participating in Art Walks throughout the city.

“Puerto Vallarta’s thriving art scene includes weekly Art Walks in January, where galleries open their doors to showcase Mexican and international artists,” Lindsay recommended.

“Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with galleries, where each stop offers a new perspective on Puerto Vallarta’s creative spirit. From bold modern paintings and intricate sculptures to fine ceramics and handcrafted jewelry; many galleries welcome visitors with complimentary wine and live music, making the experience feel both intimate and inspiring.”

Lindsay’s tips also include a visit to surf town Sayulita, with streets lined with vibrant murals, featuring local shops and artisan markets.

“A haven for surfers, whether beginner or experienced, the main beach, Playa Sayulita, is buzzing with energy, offering surf rentals, beachfront restaurants, and palapas for a relaxing day by the sea,” Lindsay highlighted.

“Sayulita’s café culture is also bustling, with laid-back spots like Yah-Yah Café and El Itacate serving fresh smoothies, tacos, and locally roasted coffee. Don’t miss a stop at the iconic Sayulita sign for a photo op, or venture further to the quieter Playa de los Muertos, a more secluded beach tucked behind a small cemetery.”

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Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is an all-inclusive accommodation with an exclusive beach, Las Estacas. The property has 10 has restaurants, bars and lounges, four pools, and seasonal opportunities for whale watching. The resort has a number of ocean front rooms, and adults-only swim-up rooms with direct access to a semi-private pool.

For a more affordable all-inclusive option, Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel & Mexican Charm has a heated pool and a kids pool, a beach area just over two blocks away from the hotel, and a spa to help you feel rejuvenated on vacation. The hotel rooms feature wood-beamed ceilings and tile floors, and options to accommodate families.

The former homes of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Casa Kimberly Boutique Hotel has nine suites, a spa, pool, and the preserved Puente Del Amor (Bridge of Love). The Elizabeth Taylor Suite was her personal quarters, a 2,500 square-foot sanctuary, and the Richard Buton suite is on the top floor of his former casita.

Skyscanner’s Saved Feature: Save those deals to look at later

Skyscanner has a number of features to make sure you save as much as possible on your vacation.

Take advantage of the “Saved” feature. Start by browsing all the travel deals and when you see something you like, you can save it for later.

• Step 1: Find your flights and hotel

• Step 2: Select the heart icon next to your top picks to save them for later. Make sure you’re logged into your Skyscanner account!

• Pro tip: Download the Skyscanner app to create separate Saved lists for all the different trips you’re planning.

Tips for finding the cheapest flights

If flight costs are getting you down, there are a few things Canadian travellers can do to ensure they’re getting the best deal possible for their next vacation, both on the Skyscanner platform specifically and when looking for flights more generally.

• Beat the crowds: For flights that are filling up fast, you’ll want to make sure you’re looking at the monthly view on travel search sites like Skyscanner to see the best possible option available for flight dates.

• Set up alerts: Prices are always changing, so if you’re hoping to travel to a specific destination, or on specific dates, set up a price alert so you can be quick if a deal comes up. Skyscanner specifically has a price alerts system for any cost changes.

• Consider “Everywhere”: If you’re hoping for a new adventure, or a little rest and relaxation, but you don’t have a specific destination in mind, the “Everywhere” search on Skyscanner may be your new best friend to discover the most affordable vacation destination possible.

• Flexible dates: There may be certain times where you need to travel for specific dates, but the best deals are really revealed when you open yourself up to some flexibility. Even changing your travel dates by a day, or a week, can result in significant savings.