Published on December 7, 2025

Copa Airlines is transforming the way travelers can explore the best of Central America and Mexico. Starting December 4, 2025, the airline has introduced a new flight from Panama City (PTY) to San José del Cabo (SJD), making this the first-ever nonstop service between Panama and Baja California Sur. This new route will open up six incredible destinations for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences, pristine beaches, adventure, and luxury resorts.
This direct service promises to be a game-changer, simplifying travel for both Central American and Mexican tourists, and offering direct access to some of the most celebrated tourist hotspots in Baja California Sur. From the art-filled streets of San José del Cabo to the beachy vibes of Cabo San Lucas, and the pristine landscapes of Todos Santos, this new route promises to bring vacationers closer to their dream destinations, without the hassle of connecting flights.
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Copa Airlines’ new nonstop flight will help open up Los Cabos to a broader market of Central American travelers, who now have direct access to one of Mexico’s most coveted destinations. The flight will operate three times a week — on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — aboard a Boeing 737-800, offering a fast and convenient way for travelers to get from Panama City to San José del Cabo in approximately five hours.
Los Cabos, encompassing the cities of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, world-class resorts, and the dramatic scenery where the desert meets the ocean. Whether you’re after a luxury escape, an adventure-filled trip, or a peaceful retreat, this route will bring these diverse offerings within easy reach for those flying from Panama City.
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For travelers arriving at San José del Cabo, the town itself offers a unique blend of colonial charm and cultural richness. Unlike the bustling Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo remains a tranquil paradise, offering visitors a quiet escape to art galleries, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture. The town is famous for its cultural festivals, art walks, and a serene atmosphere that attracts those seeking a slower pace.
One of the standout features of San José del Cabo is its thriving art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing local artists. The San José del Cabo Art Walk, held every Thursday evening, is a great way to explore the town’s creative side while experiencing its welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy some of the best dining experiences in the region, with restaurants offering a combination of Mexican cuisine and international flavors.
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In addition to its cultural attractions, San José del Cabo is close to some of the best beaches in the region, offering calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply unwinding by the sea.
Just a short transfer from San José del Cabo lies Cabo San Lucas, the more lively, resort-centric city of the Los Cabos region. Known for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, and stunning natural landmarks like El Arco, Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure, fun, and plenty of entertainment.
Here, visitors can indulge in world-class fishing, with Cabo being one of the best places in the world to catch marlin and other big-game fish. The city is also famous for its water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and yacht excursions. Those looking for luxury shopping, gourmet dining, and a lively party scene will find no shortage of options in Cabo San Lucas.
Cabo’s stunning beaches, such as Medano Beach, offer soft golden sands, perfect for lounging or enjoying water activities, while Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach provide a quieter retreat with breathtaking views.
A short drive from Los Cabos lies Todos Santos, a charming Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) that blends colonial history with desert beauty. Todos Santos is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate art, local culture, and untouched nature. The town is known for its vibrant art galleries, craft shops, and historical mission-style churches.
For nature lovers, Todos Santos is surrounded by some of the most striking landscapes in Baja California Sur. The desert meets the Pacific Ocean here, providing dramatic views and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. From hiking trails through the desert to peaceful beaches perfect for whale watching and fishing, Todos Santos offers a perfect contrast to the busier resort destinations.
This destination will appeal to those seeking a more authentic Mexican experience, with plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion and peaceful relaxation.
Another jewel that passengers flying into Los Cabos will find accessible is Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, a protected marine reserve located a short distance from San José del Cabo. Cabo Pulmo is one of the oldest marine parks in Mexico, and it is renowned for its breathtaking coral reefs, diving opportunities, and rich marine life.
The park is home to an abundant variety of fish, sea turtles, rays, and even whale sharks during the winter months. For diving enthusiasts or anyone looking to explore the wonders of the ocean, Cabo Pulmo offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the region. The natural beauty and the calm waters make it an ideal place for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
While not directly connected by this new flight route, La Paz is another remarkable destination within easy reach of San José del Cabo. This peaceful coastal city is famous for its pristine beaches, mild climate, and rich marine ecosystem. La Paz offers an authentic Mexican experience, with plenty of opportunities for swimming with sea lions, kayaking in the Sea of Cortez, and exploring Baja’s desert landscape.
Known as the gateway to the Espíritu Santo Island National Park, La Paz offers some of the best eco-tourism experiences in Mexico, including snorkeling and diving with sea lions. Travelers arriving from San José del Cabo will find La Paz a short journey away, making it a worthwhile addition to any Baja California Sur itinerary.
This new nonstop flight from Panama City (PTY) to San José del Cabo (SJD) isn’t just a boon for travelers looking to explore the wonders of Los Cabos and Baja California Sur; it also helps foster deeper connections between Central America and the Mexican Pacific coast. For Central American travelers, particularly those from countries like Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama, this new flight route provides direct access to the beautiful beaches, adventure, and luxury of Los Cabos, which were previously accessible only via longer and more complicated travel routes.
The flight serves as a significant link between Central America and Mexico, enabling easier access for business and tourism travelers alike. Additionally, by providing access to a range of diverse destinations — from peaceful beaches and resorts to vibrant cultural towns and outdoor adventure sites — this flight opens up a new world of possibilities for tourism growth in both Panama and Mexico.
With the introduction of this new nonstop service by Copa Airlines, travelers now have an easier and more convenient way to explore the beauty, adventure, and culture that Los Cabos has to offer. Whether it’s relaxing on the golden beaches of Cabo San Lucas, experiencing the cultural charm of San José del Cabo, or exploring the wild marine parks of Cabo Pulmo, this new route gives passengers a direct and seamless way to access one of the most desirable regions in Mexico.
For Central American tourists, it is a gateway to the luxury and adventure of Mexico’s Pacific coast. For Mexican travelers, it opens up the wealth of cultural, historical, and natural beauty in Panama and beyond. Copa Airlines has made it easier than ever to visit these stunning destinations, with a flight that brings two regions closer together, creating a new avenue for tourism growth in the Americas.
IMAGE CREDIT: Copa Airlines ( X – TWITTER)
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