Liberia Costa Rica Tourism Set to Soar as New Direct Flight from Vancouver Boosts Visitations

Published on December 13, 2025

Liberia Costa Rica’s tourism sector is poised for a significant lift as a new non‑stop flight from Vancouver opens direct access to the Pacific coast for Canadian travellers. The seasonal service, operating from Vancouver International Airport to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, begins on 12 December 2025 and marks a major enhancement in connectivity between Western Canada and Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province. This direct route will simplify travel plans for holidaymakers looking to escape winter weather and explore Costa Rica’s famed beaches, biodiversity, and outdoor experiences.

The new weekly non‑stop flight, operated by WestJet, is scheduled during the peak winter tourism season when demand for warm‑weather getaways is at its highest. It eliminates the need for layovers, making travel more convenient and attractive for Canadian visitors seeking beach vacations, nature tours, and cultural experiences in Costa Rica. Previously, travellers often faced one or more connections via other hubs.

Costa Rica’s tourism authorities have long underscored the importance of expanding direct international connectivity to support sustainable tourism growth. The country is globally recognised for its natural beauty, with more than a quarter of its land conserved as protected areas, including rainforests, volcanoes, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems that draw visitors from around the world. The national tourism organisation highlights the wide range of experiences available, from wildlife observation to adventure and relaxation, helping to strengthen Costa Rica’s appeal as a diverse and family‑friendly destination.

Liberia serves as the gateway to Guanacaste Province, a region celebrated for its year‑round sun, dry climate, and stunning white‑sand beaches. These attributes make it a top choice for travellers escaping colder climates, particularly in winter. With direct flights arriving from Vancouver, tourism stakeholders in Guanacaste, including hotels, tour operators, and local businesses, expect increased visitor numbers and stronger revenue flows throughout the peak season. The enhanced air link supports broader tourism strategies aimed at diversifying source markets and extending stays across the region’s coastal and inland attractions.

For many prospective visitors, the appeal of Costa Rica lies in its combination of natural wonders and accessible infrastructure. Guanacaste’s beaches, such as Playa del Coco, along with nearby national parks and wildlife reserves, offer varied itineraries that cater to both adventure seekers and leisure travellers. The direct flight from Vancouver helps streamline the travel experience, encouraging longer stays and more robust engagement with local tourism offerings. Experience‑based activities such as snorkelling, hiking, and cultural tours are expected to benefit directly from increased arrival numbers.

Tourism officials in Costa Rica have also worked to broaden the country’s international reach through additional direct services from other Canadian cities. For example, new flights from Ottawa and other hubs are set to expand access to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport during the high season, further reinforcing Costa Rica’s position as a key destination for Canadian travellers seeking direct sun and cultural experiences without multiple stops. This coordinated expansion of direct routes highlights Costa Rica’s commitment to facilitating easier travel and boosting tourism recovery in the post‑pandemic era.

The economic benefits of increased tourism are far‑reaching. Local communities in and around Liberia are expected to see gains through heightened demand for accommodations, food and beverage services, transportation, guided tours, and excursions. Small and medium enterprises in the region, many of which depend on tourism for income, stand to benefit from a more consistent flow of visitors and enhanced international exposure. This can also support employment growth and encourage investment in local infrastructure.

Moreover, travel marketers and tour operators are emphasising the ease of booking and competitive pricing for this non‑stop option. With round‑trip fares on various carriers remaining accessible for many travellers, the direct connection could influence more families, couples, and solo tourists to choose Costa Rica for their winter break. Industry data suggest that simplifying access through direct flights can significantly elevate destination demand, leading to sustained tourism growth.

Safety and travel planning remain central to the visitor experience. Prospective travellers are advised to consult official travel guidance related to entry requirements, health advisories, and destination‑specific safety tips as they prepare for international travel. This includes checking government updates and recommendations from relevant travel authorities before departure.

The introduction of the WestJet non‑stop flight from Vancouver to Liberia stands as a strategic milestone for Costa Rica’s tourism landscape. It not only enhances accessibility but also serves as an engine for economic activity and visitor engagement across Guanacaste and beyond. With its rich natural assets, cultural vibrancy, and direct seasonal connectivity from key North American markets, Liberia’s tourism prospects are brighter than ever for the upcoming winter season.