Costa Rica Weather: Discover the Best Time to Visit

Traveling to Costa Rica but don't know when? Let us make your planning easier with this month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. We'll also cover the worst times to visit Costa Rica (in general, there aren't any!) for any specific type of activity or vacation.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

Let's be clear. Costa Rica is a great place to visit year-round. We know this because we live here year-round, after all! But you need to know the best time weather-wise, too. If you're looking for the best weather, the best time to go to Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to the end of April. You can expect hot and sunny weather during this time with minimum rain. Perfect for beaches and outdoor activities!

But don't discount traveling to Costa Rica during the rainy season either. That's also a good time to come down. Sure, there's more rain, but there are also fewer tourists between that early May to mid-December period. That means Costa Rica is less crowded and, crucially, less expensive.

There are great deals during the rainy season! More bang for your buck. And, we should also point out, the rainy season in Costa Rica doesn't mean a lot of rain. It's rare that it rains all day. While you can expect a shower in the late afternoons, mornings are usually sunny so you can still enjoy the beaches and all the fun activities. Plus get to experience a lusher, greener, Costa Rica!

If all-but-guaranteed hot sunny weather is the most important to you, then anytime between mid-December and the end of April is the best time to visit Costa Rica. If not, then pick any one of the twelve months that works best for you, and come on down!

Tell Me More: What’s the Weather in Costa Rica Like?

Two main factors determine the weather in Costa Rica: time of year and altitude. Let's take a look at both.

Altitude

The first thing to know about the weather in Costa Rica is the concept of micro-climates and altitude. Due to its topography, the weather can be very different from one place to the next. Costa Rica is a mountainous country, so altitude affects the weather far more than latitude. In fact, Costa Rica's latitude just north of the equator means more stability, weather-wise, than you'll find in North America or Europe. In Costa Rica, temperatures don't fluctuate much throughout the year. And it's either raining or it isn't. That's basically it, as far as Costa Rica's latitude goes.

As we say, it's all about the altitude. In Costa Rica, you can expect an average annual temperature of 80°-90° Fahrenheit on the coasts and 75°-85° in the inland areas and Central Valley. Further up in the highlands (Monteverde, for example), expect slightly cooler climes of around 65°-70° but not much less than that. Unless you're hiking the highest mountains of Costa Rica, frosts are unknown. We recommend you get into the mindset of considering your altitude in Costa Rica when figuring out what to pack.

Time of Year

We touched on this earlier: when determining a general guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica, the time of year you travel in deserves consideration.

The dry season—sometimes called "summer" or "verano", in Spanish—runs from mid-December through to the end of April. The average temperature ranges from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs in the mid to high 90s. There is still some rain during this time, but it is usually very short-lived.

The rainy season in Costa Rica —often called "winter" or the "green season", and "invierno" in Spanish—is from May through mid-December. Expect rain during this period, especially in September and October, but don't be surprised if there's less than you think. The average rainfall is about 100 inches per year, but it is spread out across the whole green season, and usually occurs during the afternoons. The weather is still warm and humid during this time, with average temperatures ranging from 75°-80° Fahrenheit.

Costa Rica Weather Overview

Temperature

The average temperature in Costa Rica ranges from 75°-85° Fahrenheit (24°-29° Celsius) year-round. Coastal areas are warmer than inland, and it gets colder the higher up you are.

MonthLow AvgHigh AvgJanuary68 °F82 °FFebruary69 °F84 °FMarch70 °F85 °FApril71 °F86 °FMay72 °F84 °FJune72 °F83 °FJuly71 °F82 °FAugust71 °F82 °FSeptember70 °F81 °FOctober70 °F80 °FNovember69 °F80 °FDecember68 °F82 °F

Costa Rica: Average Monthly Temperatures (°F)

These are general averages and temperatures can vary depending on specific location and elevation.*

Rainfall  

Average annual rainfall in Costa Rica is about 100 inches (250 centimeters). The rainiest months are August, September, and October, but it can rain at any time of the year.

Humidity 

Generally, humidity in Costa Rica is high throughout the year, particularly in coastal regions. The rainy season, from May to November, brings the highest humidity levels, often accompanied by afternoon cloud cover and rain showers. However, these showers are typically brief, and clear skies return quickly.
The high humidity can make the heat feel more intense, so staying hydrated and wearing loose, breathable clothing is recommended.  The average humidity ranges from 70 to 80%.

Sunshine  
Costa Rica is known for its sunshine throughout the year, with an average of around 2,000 sunshine hours annually. The sun tends to be strongest during the dry season, stretching from December to April. Visitors during this time can expect plenty of warm, sunny days, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica? The Pros and Cons of Visiting Each Month

Weather aside, each month of the year has its pros and cons for visitors. Below, we take a look at each month of the year to determine if it's a good time for you to travel or not.

What is Costa Rica like in January?

Pros: January in Costa Rica boasts perfect weather, marking the start of the dry season with minimal rainfall. Ideal for beach lovers looking to escape the northern winter.

Cons: January brings New Year's prices, making Costa Rica comparatively costly. Hotel availability is limited, so booking in advance for a January vacation is advisable.

The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica Is February

Pros: February offers the best weather in Costa Rica, with hot and sunny conditions and minimal rain. It's a pleasant time temperature-wise, with cooling breezes.

Cons: Like January, February is a busy period as visitors escape northern winter weather. Advance booking and flexibility with hotel choices are essential due to limited space.

Costa Rica in March Is Busy, but Beautiful

Pros: March continues the dry season, with weather similar to January and February, albeit hotter and less humid. It's a peak high season, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Cons: March remains busy, especially during spring break. Availability is scarce, and it's one of the hottest months of the year, which may not suit those preferring cooler weather.

Costa Rica in April: Mind the Semana Santa

Pros: April often coincides with Easter, offering a great time to celebrate with local festivities. It's also the peak of the dry season, characterized by hot, dry, and sunny conditions. After Easter, crowds thin, and you may find some deals.

Cons: Easter week in tourist and beach areas are crowded and hectic. Traffic congestion and limited hotel availability are common.

Transitional Costa Rica Weather Starts in May

Pros: May is a transitional month with occasional afternoon rains, but it brings lush, green scenery after four months of heat and sunshine. Fewer crowds and more deals make it ideal for nature lovers. Turtle season and excellent deep-sea fishing are notable highlights.

Cons: May doesn't guarantee continuous sunshine, as it marks a transition from dry to rainy season. Travelers seeking consistent dry weather might prefer other months.

June in Costa Rica: Low Crowds and Good Deals

Pros: June offers lower crowds, tranquility, and good deals. The weather is generally green and lush, with sunny mornings and brief afternoon showers. It's a good time for cheaper flights.

Cons: June can be unpredictable weather-wise, with occasional rainy afternoons.

What's Costa Rica Like in July?

Pros: July has a more predictable climate, with a brief dry season called the "Little Summer of San Juan." Expect dry season-like weather and lush landscapes for two weeks. It's one of the best months for fishing, surfing, and observing humpback whales and turtle nesting.

Cons: Apart from the "Little Summer," July sees occasional rainy afternoons. It's a busy month, especially during North American summer holidays, with fewer deals compared to May or June.

Is August a Good Time to Visit Costa Rica?

Pros: August is ideal for nature enthusiasts. It offers green landscapes, whale and turtle seasons, and excellent eco-tourism opportunities. The weather typically includes sunny mornings and afternoon showers.

Cons: While August is less busy than July, it's still the summer holidays, so some planning is advisable. Rain can occur, but it rarely disrupts plans.

Watch for Rain when Visiting Costa Rica in September

Pros: September is quieter and cheaper, due to increased rainfall in this month. Nature lovers can enjoy the peaceful environment and still experience sunny mornings. It's an excellent time for exploring the Caribbean side.

Cons: September and October are the wettest months, with lots of rain. Many hotels and eco-lodges close, making some areas feel deserted. Avoid the Osa Peninsula during this period.

Travel to the Caribbean Side if Visiting Costa Rica in October

Pros: October is a great time to explore the Caribbean coast, while the rest of the country is wet. Hotel deals are abundant.

Cons: October remains wet, and some regions may experience travel challenges. Avoid visiting the Central or South Pacific, as many hotels and activities close. Guanacaste is a better option due to reduced rainfall.

November in Costa Rica: Transition to the Dry Season

Pros: November resembles May, a transition month from the rainy to dry season. It's a great time for travel, with some good deals available.

Cons: Tropical rains still occur in November. Hotel prices rise from September and October. Travelers planning a Thanksgiving vacation should book in advance.

December in Costa Rica Is a Great Time to Visit

Pros: December marks the start of the dry season. The beginning of the month has lower-season prices and fewer crowds. Light afternoon showers keep the countryside green, with cooling breezes at the beach.

Cons: Around December 20th, the peak season begins because of the holidays and Christmas season, leading to limited hotel availability. It's essential to book well in advance if you prefer to avoid crowds and high costs.

Seasons in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons: dry season and rainy season. In most of the country, the dry season runs from December to April, with May to November being rainy. The Caribbean coast follows a different pattern, with its dryer months running from May to November. Please note, though, that the Caribbean is pretty wet all year round, the main exception being October.

Costa Rica Dry Season: December to April

The dry season, also known as high season or “summer,” runs from December to April. During this time, most of Costa Rica enjoys hot and sunny weather with less rain. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to the high 90s. Some parts of the country experience cooler winds in January and February, especially Guanacaste. These offshores provide relief from the heat as temperatures rise.

This time is popular for American and European visitors escaping northern hemisphere winters. There's nothing like sitting on a tropical beach while it's snowing at home! Keep in mind, though, that hotels and airfares are more expensive in the dry season.

Costa Rica Rainy Season: May to November

The rainy season attracts fewer tourists but Costa Rica is at its most beautiful in these months. The rain freshens the vegetation and the country becomes lush and vibrant. While temperatures don't change that much from the dry season, the climate is wetter. Expect frequent thunderstorms, heavy rains, and tropical depressions.

Typically, the days start hot and sunny, with afternoon cloud cover and rain lasting a few hours until it clears up in the early evening. There may be days with more rain, especially in September and October, but sunny days are common. It's possible to experience days with no rain at all.

Transitional Months

Travelers often consider May/June and November as the best months to visit. These transitional months mark the shift from dry to rainy and vice versa, with minimal rain. The countryside transforms from dry browns to lush greenery during this time.

FAQs about Costa Rica Weather

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica to avoid humidity?

To avoid the worst humidity, come to Costa Rica from January to April, the driest months. It's best to avoid September and October, although humidity levels can vary depending on your location. Guanacaste has the lowest year-round rainfall in the country, and is the least humid province.

Is Christmas a good time to visit Costa Rica?

Christmas has excellent weather, but it's also the peak season. That means increased tourist crowds, availability issues (booking early is key), and higher prices.

When is the optimal time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Costa Rica?

Nature lovers will find the rainy season ideal for their adventures. It's prime time for activities like whale watching and turtle nesting tours. Prices tend to be more budget-friendly during this time.

What's the best month to visit Costa Rica?

It depends what you're looking for. Surfers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts will love May through November. Sun seekers and beach enthusiasts will enjoy the hot dry weather from December through April. We love the transitional months of May and November for the best of both worlds!

When should you avoid visiting Costa Rica?

September and October can be challenging times to visit Costa Rica due to the rainy weather. However, these months can offer excellent deals for travelers.

What is the rainiest month in Costa Rica?

For most of the country, October is the rainiest month. Be prepared for rain if you're on the Pacific coast or in the Central Valley/mountain region. But on the Caribbean coast, October is the driest month of the year.

Which month is the hottest in Costa Rica?

Temperatures in Costa Rica don't vary much throughout the year. It's always warm. The hottest months, however, typically fall between April and July. For precise information, consult weather apps.

When is the worst time to visit Costa Rica?

This depends on your preferences. Late December through January can be challenging due to the high number of visitors and increased costs. If you wish to avoid any rainfall, your safest bet is to stick with the dry season, from mid-December to the end of March.

When is the most budget-friendly time to travel to Costa Rica?

For the best deals, September to mid-November are best. Most hotels offer great deals and the lack of crowds can afford you exceptional service at premium accommodations.

Ultimate Guide to Flying to Costa Rica

Where Are You Coming From to Visit Costa Rica?

Time to look more at where you are. Where are you coming from, and how easy can you get to Costa Rica from your hometown? Are you a direct flight away from San Jose or Guanacaste? Or will you need to travel with layovers? Below, we'll make things easier for you to figure all this out by listing the top twenty busiest airports in the United States, followed by the top ten each in Canada, Europe, and Latin America. This will give you a better idea of the closest airport with direct flights to Costa Rica to you.

We'll simply label these airports with a "yes" or "no" to start with (plus airlines) and then delve a little deeper as to which of the two international airports in Costa Rica (San Jose or Guanacaste) receive flights from them. Cross-referencing this with the airline info above should make it easy to nail down the most convenient flight to get you to Costa Rica. Let's go!

Direct Flight to Costa Rica? United States’ Top Twenty Busiest Airports 

• Atlanta: Yes (Delta)

• Los Angeles: Yes (Alaska, Delta, JetBlue, United)

• Chicago O'Hare: Yes (United)

• Dallas/Fort Worth: Yes (American)

• Denver: Yes (United)

• New York JFK: Yes (American, JetBlue)

• San Francisco: Yes (United)

• Seattle: No

• Orlando: Yes (Frontier, JetBlue, Spirit)

• Las Vegas: No

• Charlotte: Yes (American)

• Newark: Yes (United)

• Phoenix: No

• Houston: Yes (Southwest, United)

• Miami: Yes (American, Avianca, Frontier, Spirit)

• Boston: Yes (JetBlue)

• Minneapolis: Yes (Sun Country)

• Detroit: No

• Fort Lauderdale: Yes (JetBlue, Spirit)

• Philadelphia: No

Of the top twenty busiest airports in the United States, only five (Seattle, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Detroit, and Philadelphia) do not operate direct flights to Costa Rica at this time. The other 15 airports all offer direct flights, some with multiple airlines. Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando are the cities with the most direct flights into Costa Rica.    
 

Find Your Trip »

Direct Flight to Costa Rica? Canada's Busiest Airports

Here are the top ten busiest airports in that country from 2024 to show you which ones have direct flights:

• Toronto: Yes (Air Canada, Sunwing, WestJet)

• Vancouver: No

• Calgary: Yes (WestJet)

• Montreal: Yes (Air Transat)

• Edmonton: No

• Ottawa: No

• Winnipeg: No

• Halifax: No

• Kelowna: No

• Victoria: No 

As you can see from the above list, direct flights into Costa Rica from Canada were thin on the ground even before the pandemic. So unless you live near Toronto, Calgary, or Montreal, chances are you'll need to layover someplace (either in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Panama, or elsewhere) to get to Costa Rica. Toronto is the Canadian city with the most connections to Costa Rica.    
 

Direct Flight to Costa Rica? Europe's Busiest Airports

• London Heathrow: Yes (British Airways)

• Paris: Yes (Air France)

• Amsterdam: Yes (KLM)

• Frankfurt: Yes (Lufthansa)

• Istanbul: No

• Madrid: Yes (Iberia, Iberojet)

• Barcelona: No

• London Gatwick: Yes (British Airways)

• Munich: No

• Rome: No

Five of the busiest airports in Europe offer direct connections to Costa Rica. The European city most connected to Costa Rica by air is Madrid, Spain.    
 

Latin America's Busiest Airports

• Mexico City: Yes (Aeromexico, Volaris)

• São Paulo Guarulhos: No

• Cancun: Yes (Volaris)

• Bogota: Yes (Avianca, Wingo)

• Santiago: No

• Guadalajara: No

• Brasilia: No

• Lima: No

• São Paulo Congonhas: No

• Campinas: No

Looking at the list above, you can see that only three of the busiest airports in Latin America offer direct flights to Costa Rica. Two are in Mexico (Mexico City and Cancun), and one is in Colombia (Bogota).

Other Latin American cities with direct flights include some of Costa Rica's Central American neighbors – Panama City, Guatemala City, and San Salvador, but none of these rank as the busiest. Four of the top ten busiest airports in Latin America are in Brazil. And there has never been direct Brazil to Costa Rica flights in operation.    
 

If you're traveling to Costa Rica from Latin America, your best bet is to fly through Bogota, Panama City, or Miami.

Flying From Southeast U.S. To Costa Rica

You can easily fly from the Southeast region of the United States to Costa Rica. There are several major airports in the Southeast that offer nonstop and connecting flights to Costa Rica:

• Atlanta International Airport (ATL): You can fly non-stop to San Jose (SJO) from Atlanta (ATL) with Delta Airlines any day of the week. With Frontier Airlines you can fly direct on Sundays and Thursdays.

• Miami International Airport (MIA): You can fly non-stop to San Jose (SJO) and Guanacaste (LIR) from Miami (MIA) with American Airlines every day of the week. Plus, find deals on connecting flights with multiple airlines.

• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): You can fly non-stop to San Jose (SJO) from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) with JetBlue and Spirit Airlines every day of the week.

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): You can fly non-stop to San Jose (SJO) with American Airlines from Charlotte (CLT), every day of the week. There is also one flight on Saturdays from Charlotte(CLT) to Guanacaste (LIR).

• Nashville International Airport (BNA): There aren't any non-stop flights from Nashville to Costa Rica. However, you can find connecting flights.

• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): There aren't any airlines that provide direct flights from New Orleans to Costa Rica. However, you can find connecting flights.

After looking at some major airports, flight information and airlines, below you'll find more information on deals to Costa Rica:

Popular flights to Costa Rica with American Airlines

Deals with Frontier Airlines to Costa Rica

Deals with Delta Airlines to Costa Rica

New Flights to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a destination that simply cannot be missed, and it seems airlines agree! With the recent surge in new routes and flights to this tropical paradise, travelers now have an abundance of options to choose from. For example, Frontier Airlines is now operating once-weekly service between Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson International Airport to Guanacaste Airport in Liberia, Costa Rica. 

On March 2023, Southwest Airlines launched non stop flights from Denver International Airport to San Jose, Costa Rica, on Saturdays.

Delta Air Lines has recently announced its plans to expand its service to Latin America and the Caribbean even further. They're adding more seasonal flights than ever before, with expanded service from major U.S. hubs, making it the largest-ever holiday schedule to Latin America for Delta. The service will run from December 16, 2023, to January 7, 2024, giving travelers even more options to explore these incredible destinations.     
 

Direct, Nonstop Routes to Costa Rica

There are nonstop direct flights to both San Jose (SJO) and Liberia, Costa Rica from various locations. 

Let's start with San Jose (SJO), the most significant and busiest of the two international airports in Costa Rica. It serves the capital city of San Jose, although it's located outside of town in Alajuela. In this section of our Ultimate Guide to Flying to Costa Rica, we wanted to highlight what we've already mentioned above, but this time show you what exact direct routes fly into San Jose.    
 

From the United States, you can fly directly into San Jose from the following cities:

• Atlanta

• Boston

• Charlotte

• Chicago

• Dallas

• Denver

• Fort Lauderdale

• Houston

• Los Angeles

• Miami

• New York

• Newark

• Orlando

That works out 13 U.S. cities in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Texas. Elsewhere worldwide, Canada, Europe, and Latin America send most of their direct flights from Costa Rica to San Jose.

Below, find the other cities outside of the United States with nonstop flights to San Jose, Costa Rica:

• Amsterdam

• Bogota

• Cancun

• Frankfurt

• Guatemala City

• Madrid

• Mexico City

• Panama City

• Paris

• San Salvador

• Toronto

• Zurich

We hope, though, to add more cities to this list soon. Indeed, according to Avianca, flights from Cali, Medellin, and Managua are on their way. So now let's look at Guanacaste Airport.    
 

Direct, nonstop routes to Liberia, Costa Rica.

Until July 2021, Guanacaste Airport was called Liberia Airport. The rebranding was part of an effort to make the airport appear more inclusive to the province of Guanacaste in northern Costa Rica rather than the city of Liberia – Guanacaste's capital – itself. And there was also the small matter of avoiding confusion between the West African country of Liberia and the Costa Rican city of Liberia.

The official name of Guanacaste Airport is Daniel Oduber International Airport, named after a popular president in the 1970s. Everyone calls it Liberia (and now, Guanacaste) Airport, though. The airport code remains LIR for Liberia.    
 

Putting aside that important detail about names and branding, Guanacaste Airport is Costa Rica's second-largest and second-most important after San Jose. In addition, it's the only airport in Costa Rica outside of San Jose that accepts commercial jet airliner traffic from abroad.    
 

In this section of the guide, we'll show you the cities from where you can fly directly into Guanacaste Airport from the list of routes we've already given you.    
 

From the United States, you can fly direct to Guanacaste Airport from the following cities: 

• Atlanta

• Austin

• Baltimore/Washington

• Boston

• Charlotte

• Dallas

• Denver

• Houston

• Los Angeles

• Miami

• Minneapolis

• Newark

• New York

• Orlando

• San Francisco

Interestingly, although Guanacaste is a smaller airport, it receives direct flights from more U.S. cities than San Jose, 15 compared to 13.    
 

That said, some Guanacaste flights are seasonal vacation flights rather than regular schedules. But as it stands, you can get to Guanacaste Airport directly from cities in the states of California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Texas.    
 

Below, find more cities from around the world offering direct flights to Guanacaste Airport: 

• Amsterdam (not precisely direct – it arrives in Guanacaste via San Jose)

 For now, Amsterdam is the only international city with a service (via San Jose) to Guanacaste and the only European airline offering a transatlantic connection to LIR. In more normal times, Air Transat and Westjet offered direct flights to Guanacaste from Toronto, Montreal, and other Canadian cities, while TUI flew direct from the U.K. Copa also offered a service from Panama City. We'll update this info if and when these flights return. 

Private Charter Flights to Costa Rica

 It might not be the most ecologically sound way to get to Costa Rica, but it's undoubtedly the most comfortable. And if you're in a large enough group, it might not even be as expensive as you think. So yes, if you're so inclined, you can travel to Costa Rica on a private flight. And your last name doesn't need to be Kardashian to do so, either.    
 

This section will discuss chartering a private plane rather than buying one. If you're interested in buying your private jet or already have one, there's not much advice we can give you on this page other than which Costa Rican airport to fly to (see below). Outside, we should ask you for advice rather than the other way round!    
 

But if you're considering chartering a private plane, we can offer you some information about flying to Costa Rica.    
 

Why Would You Hire a Private Flight in the First Place?

We've already seen many airlines flying in and out of Costa Rica worldwide. So what are the advantages of going private?    
 

There's the luxury factor, as a private plane offers more comfort and style, which is a given. However, it also provides more convenience. You can pick your departure time without dealing with airline schedules. If you're traveling with young children or pets, flying private offers you no end of extra convenience. And these days of Covid, flying in a plane without being surrounded by total strangers in your space can also offer you peace of mind. You know all this already, of course. Everyone knows the benefits of flying private, even if most people have never had the pleasure of doing so. What you want to know is the price, right?    
 

How Much Does It Cost for a Private Charter Flight to Costa Rica?

 Private flights charge by the hour, depending on where you're coming from. They also charge by the size of the aircraft. So a smaller plane with a smaller passenger capacity will cost less than a larger plane. So you're looking at two factors: flight length and plane size.    
 

When considering these factors, you also need to consider the range of your plane (how far your plane can travel before having to refuel). Smaller planes have lower ranges, while larger planes can fly further.

For a short journey of fewer than three hours (say, 3.5 hours at the absolute maximum), you can get away with a smaller light jet or turboprop, as long as you have a maximum of six passengers and aren't going crazy with the luggage. Three and a half hours in a light jet or turboprop would cover some southern Florida, some parts of the extreme south of the United States, and the Caribbean.

A flight like this would start at around $2,000 per hour, rising to about $5,500. But again, you're limited by the small number of passengers in your group. So if you took a midsize jet carrying eight or nine of you, you're looking from around $5,000 to $9,500 per hour.    
 

A midsize jet can also travel further, increasing your range to around seven hours of flying time, enough to cover much of the United States. But again, here, it depends on the plane.

If you're a larger group or traveling from further afield, you'll need a heavy jet capable of long distances. These planes carry around 16 people up to 50, and prices range from $8,000 to $20,000 per hour.

So, say you're four people from Miami in a Cessna Citation CJ3 (a light, six-seater jet). The cost of that will come to $5,500 per hour for a three-hour flight. That's $17,500, which works out at $4,375 per person (or $2,917 per person if you're six people). Now, let's look at the same flight on a midsize jet. This time, there are nine of you on a Gulfstream G200. Again, at $9,500 per hour for a three-hour flight, that's around $3,100 each.

Sure, these flights aren't cheap. But neither are they multi-zillionaire prices.

You're looking at a few grand per person, which could be doable for some of you. However, there are landing fees to consider, based on the size and weight of the plane—these range from around $100 to $500.    
 

One way to get the cost of flying the private way down is to take out the flexibility and look at "empty-legging" it, which means you hop on the coattails of someone else's flight – say, someone hires a private jet to Costa Rica for a vacation. That plane needs to travel back to the United States. You can snag it for up to 75% off the regular price if it's going anywhere near your way. Of course, there's no flexibility here, and you have to go where the plane's going, but it could be doable.

A final consideration with private flights is that you're not 100% tied down to San Jose or Guanacaste Airports unless you're on a larger jet. Smaller planes can use regional airports like Limon on the Caribbean side. In San Jose, many private flights come in and out of Tobias Bolaños Airport in Pavas, a district of San Jose. Landing fees are less, and you're much closer to the city center than you would be with SJO.

Christmas Flights

With the holiday season being one of the busiest times to travel, it's important to be strategic with your flight booking. Check out our top 5 tips for securing the best deals.

• Book early: Christmas is a popular travel season, December is the most expensive month and prices can rise quickly. To get the best deals, book your flights as early as possible, ideally several months in advance.

• Be flexible with your travel dates: Christmas and New Year's are peak travel times, and prices can be significantly higher on specific dates. Consider traveling a few days before or after the holidays to save money.

• Consider flying midweek: Flights are usually more expensive on weekends, so try to book your flights for a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday departure and return.

• Decide which airport to fly into: San Jose International Airport or Guanacaste Airport - and compare prices for both. Set up flight alerts for both airports to get the best deal.

• Choose economy class: Pick the most affordable travel experience.    
   

When Do We Fly to Guanacaste vs. San Jose?

 We've rinsed out about as much as possible on airlines, routes, and cities with direct flights to Costa Rica. Now let's look at Costa Rica and your final destination when you get here, which is the fun stuff!    
 

This guide mentions that Costa Rica has two international airports, Guanacaste (LIR) and San Jose (SJO). Depending on where you're going in Costa Rica, either LIR or SJO will be better for you in terms of travel time and convenience once you arrive in-country.

Here, we'll look at Costa Rica's most popular tourist destinations and determine which airport you should fly to for the most accessible access to that destination. Please note that we're only looking at the ease of transfer from SJO or LIR to a given destination in Costa Rica. We've already covered the ease of flights to SJO or LIR, so this will not affect what we're saying here.

It could well be that you live in a city where it's easier to travel to the other airport than the one we suggest for where you're going. In that case, you'll have a decision on how to best get to your Costa Rica destination, but at least you'll have all the info you need to make that decision.    
 

We will start by discussing the differences between San Jose and Guanacaste Airports and then move on to which parts of Costa Rica are served best by each airport.    
 

The official name of San Jose Airport is Juan Santamaria Airport, and it's officially not in San Jose at all but Alajuela, about half an hour outside of the capital. Its airport code is SJO, although old aviation hands still call it Coco, after the district of Alajuela where it was built in the 1950s. SJO is Costa Rica's biggest airport and the second-busiest in Central America after Tocumen in Panama City, Panama. In 2019, San Jose Airport handled over five million passengers.

Guanacaste Airport is the new name for Liberia Airport and is Costa Rica's second international airport. They rebranded Liberia to Guanacaste in July 2021 to make it more inclusive of the province of Guanacaste as a whole rather than the city of Liberia. The airport code remains LIR. The official name of Guanacaste Airport is Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport, and it handled almost two million passengers in 2019. This airport is part of the VINCI Airports Group and has recently won numerous awards, including Best Airport in Latin America and Best Airport for Customer Service.    
 

Why Would You Fly Into SJO, and Why Would You Fly Into LIR? What’s the Difference?

There are two main reasons to fly to any airport, and Costa Rica is no exception. The first reason is convenience. Is your final destination in Costa Rica closer or easier to reach from SJO or LIR?  

Guanacaste (LIR) Airport

For the most part, the rule of thumb is that if you're flying into Guanacaste Airport, you're staying in that province. Guanacaste and its "Gold Coast" have been home to most of Costa Rica's tourist expansion in recent years. In addition, Guanacaste is where you'll find most of Costa Rica's larger beach resorts.    
 

The communities of Tamarindo, Flamingo, Coco, and – in particular – the Papagayo Peninsula are all close to Guanacaste Airport, no more than an hour max. These places have seen the bulk of tourist development in Costa Rica, and Guanacaste Airport aims to make it far easier to reach them than ever before. In years gone by, before the LIR Airport expansion, it took at least five or six hours to get to these areas from San Jose. That's no longer a necessary journey if you fly into Guanacaste Airport instead.

If you're staying in any of the Guanacaste resorts, you're far better off flying into Guanacaste Airport.

San Jose (SJO) Airport

SJO Airport is more central and more or less covers the rest of Costa Rica. Therefore, if you're spending time in the capital city of San Jose or around the Central Valley, SJO is more convenient. Also, you're better off using SJO if you're heading to the southern Nicoya Peninsula (via ferry from Puntarenas), the Central Pacific coast (Puntarenas to Quepos/Manuel Antonio), and the Southern Zone (Quepos south to the Panama border, including Uvita, Dominical, and the Osa Peninsula. Finally, those travelers going to Costa Rica's Caribbean side are also better off using San Jose Airport.

Please note, using San Jose to get to either coast of Costa Rica still involves quite long transfer times (the shortest being about an hour to Puntarenas, but mostly quite a bit longer than that). But the places mentioned here are still much quicker and more convenient to reach than Guanacaste.    
 

Using San Jose over Guanacaste for an Internal Flight in Costa Rica

SJO and LIR accommodate Costa Rica's network of internal flights, called puddle jumpers. These small planes take travelers to small airstrips all over Costa Rica and massively reduce travel time. But San Jose is the hub airport for these smaller airlines, and pretty much everything goes through there rather than Guanacaste. So if you're traveling around Costa Rica by air, you're better off using San Jose as your international entry and departure point.

Suppose you're going to the Arenal Volcano area (and most travelers to Costa Rica do) or Monteverde. In that case, there's not much difference between using Guanacaste Airport or San Jose. Both locations have the same travel time from either airport (two to three hours). In that case, it comes down to convenience for you and cost.    
 

Let's Elaborate

You'll find cheaper airfare to Costa Rica by flying into San Jose rather than Guanacaste because more airlines use San Jose – a busier airport with more competition. But don't take that to the bank. You can often find great deals in Guanacaste, especially during the December-April period, when seasonal charters fly into that airport. And prices to Guanacaste have decreased significantly in recent years as the airport expands and attracts more airlines. So the significant price differences we used to see no longer apply.    
 

And if you offset any higher price of airfare into LIR against the transfer cost from San Jose, you're probably paying more to fly into SJO.    
 

Airlines That Fly to Costa Rica

Scoping out which airlines fly to Costa Rica in the first place is an excellent place to start.

After all, your airline preferences might be based on where you live or have miles through a particular loyalty program. Here's a list of all the current carriers flying in and out of Costa Rica's two international airports.

• Aeromexico (Mexico)

• Air Canada (Canada)

• Air France (France)

• Air Transat (Canada)

• Alaska Airlines (United States)

• Avianca (Colombia)

• British Airways (United Kingdom)

• Condor (Germany)

• Copa (Panama)

• Delta (United States)

• Edelweiss (Switzerland)

• Frontier Airlines (United States)

• Iberia (Spain)

• Iberojet (Spain)

• JetBlue (United States)

• KLM (Netherlands)

• Lufthansa (Germany)

• Southwest (United States)

• Spirit (United States)

• Sun Country Airlines (United States)

• Sunwing (Canada)

• TUI Fly (United Kingdom)

• United Airlines (United States)

• Volaris (Mexico)

• WestJet (Canada)

• Wingo (Colombia)

Major U.S. Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United & Alaska

American Airlines

U.S. carrier American Airlines is one of the most prominent players in the Costa Rica market. The American Airlines Costa Rica routes connect San Jose and Guanacaste airports directly to numerous American cities daily. Below, we list the current American Airlines routes operating to Costa Rica plus future routes opening later in 2021:

• Miami (MIA): American operates direct flights from Miami to Costa Rica (3x daily to San Jose (SJO), 2x daily to Guanacaste (LIR)). Flight time is approximately three hours.

• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW): If you're traveling from DFW to Costa Rica, you're most likely flying American Airlines. American offers two daily direct flights from Dallas to San Jose and a daily service from Dallas to Guanacaste. Flight time is around four hours.

• Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT): American Airlines offers a daily, direct service from Charlotte to San Jose and Guanacaste airports. Flight time is about 4.5 hours.

In November 2021, American Airlines resumed its direct services from JFK to Costa Rica. In addition, they added a thrice-weekly flight to San Jose from Chicago, complemented by a weekly service from the Windy City to Guanacaste Airport. Also, travelers from New York will have a daily option to both San Jose and Guanacaste. And you will see a new route between Guanacaste Airport and Austin, Texas, flying four times a week.

Delta

Delta Airlines is another U.S.-based carrier offering direct flights to Costa Rica. Its central hub is Atlanta, Georgia (ATL), from where it operates a direct flight each day to both San Jose (SJO) and Guanacaste (LIR). If traveling from the U.S. west coast, you can book Delta flights to Costa Rica from LAX (Los Angeles). Delta flies from LAX to Costa Rica airports as red-eyes through the night. To summarize Delta's Costa Rica operations, see below:

• Atlanta, GA (ATL): One flight daily to SJO, one flight daily to LIR

• Los Angeles, CA (LAX): One flight daily to SJO, one flight daily to LIR

United

U.S.-based United is one of the world's major airlines and operates several routes from various American cities to Costa Rica.

See below the current direct routes into Costa Rica offered by United:

• Chicago, IL (ORD): Once a week (Saturdays) to San Jose (SJO) with a flight duration of 4 hours and 55 minutes. 

• Denver, CO (DEN): Twice a week (Mondays, Thursdays) to San Jose (SJO) with a flight duration of 5 hours and 5 minutes. 

• Houston, TX (HOU): Three flights daily to San Jose (SJO), two flights daily to Guanacaste with a flight duration of 3 hours and 40 minutes.

• Los Angeles, CA (LAX): One flight daily to San Jose (SJO), thrice-weekly (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays) to Guanacaste (LIR) with a flight duration of 5 hours and 49 minutes. 

• Newark, NJ (EWR): Two flights per day to San Jose (SJO), two flights per day to Guanacaste (LIR) with a flight duration of 5 hours 25 minutes. 

• United started flying directly from San Francisco, CA (SFO) to Guanacaste (LIR) in December 2021 with a flight duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes. 

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is a U.S.-based carrier servicing the West Coast. It operates service from Los Angeles (LAX) to Costa Rica, primarily daily to San Jose (SJO) but also to Guanacaste Airport (LIR) four times a week.

U.S. Low-Cost Airlines

Spirit Airlines

Love 'em or hate 'em, low-cost carrier Spirit is now a solid feature in aviation between the United States and Costa Rica, offering ultra-low fares. Spirit offers daily routes from Florida to San Jose (SJO), Costa Rica, with a flight each from Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. In November 2021, Spirit planned to start a new daily route direct to San Jose from Miami (MIA).

Frontier Airlines

Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines operates cheap flights to Costa Rica from Florida, flying twice a week (Mondays and Fridays) to San Jose (SJO) from Miami (MIA) and Orlando (MCO) on Thursdays and Sundays. Frontier plans to add another twice-weekly route (Thursdays and Sundays) between Orlando and Guanacaste (LIR) Airport in November 2021. Pre-pandemic, Frontier operated direct from Denver to Costa Rica. However, that route still appears off the table for now.

Southwest Airlines

This U.S. airline operates a daily service from Houston (HOU), Texas, to both San Jose (SJO) and Guanacaste (LIR) airports. It also operates a weekly (Saturdays) service to Guanacaste airport from Baltimore / Washington (BWI) and started a Saturday flight from Denver, CO, to Guanacaste (LIR).

JetBlue

JetBlue is a low-cost airline based in the United States. It offers daily flights to Costa Rica from Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, and Los Angeles. Check out your JetBlue Costa Rica routes below:

• Boston, MA (BOS): One flight weekly (Saturdays) to Guanacaste Airport (LIR)

• Fort Lauderdale, FL (FLL): Daily flights to San Jose (SJO)

• Los Angeles, CA (LAX): Daily flights to both San Jose (SJO) and Guanacaste (LIR) Airports

• Orlando, FL (MCO): Daily flights to San Jose (SJO)

JetBlue also offers twice-weekly direct flights to Costa Rica from New York City (JFK) during the December-April high season.

Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines is another low-cost airline out in the United States. It offers seasonal (December to April) direct flights from Minneapolis (MSP) to Guanacaste (LIR). This route operates one to four times a week during the Costa Rica high season, depending on the month. Saturdays are the one constant with Sun Country. Flight time is about 5.5 hours.

Latin American Airlines

Avianca

Colombian carrier Avianca is Latin America's second-largest airline, and its routes to Central America, including Costa Rica, have expanded in recent years. Avianca provides direct services into San Jose, Costa Rica, from the following cities:

• Bogota, Colombia (BOG): Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays; 1.5 hours

• Miami, FL (MIA): Daily

• San Salvador, El Salvador (SAL): 3x daily; 1 hour

• Guatemala City, Guatemala (GUA): Daily; 1.5 hours

• Los Angeles, CA (LAX): Daily nonstops; 6 hours

• New York, NY (JFK): Daily nonstops; 5 hours

Avianca announced it would open up new direct flights to San Jose from Mexico City, Cali and Medellin (Colombia), and Managua (Nicaragua).

Aeromexico

Aeromexico is Mexico's national carrier and largest airline. It flies thrice-weekly (Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays), direct from Mexico City (MEX) to San Jose (SJO). The return leg from SJO to MEX departs on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The Flight time from Mexico City to San Jose, Costa Rica, is around three hours.

Volaris

Volaris is a Mexican low-cost airline operating between Mexico, North America, and Central America. It operates flights into San Jose (SJO) from Cancun (CUN), Mexico, twice daily and from Mexico City (MEX) on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Volaris also operates a direct flight from Guatemala City (GUA), Guatemala daily except for Tuesdays.

Copa

Copa is Panama's national airline. It offers five direct daily flights between San Jose (SJO) and Panama City (PTY). In addition, Copa provides an extensive range of flights to the United States and Latin America from Panama City, so if you don't mind a layover on your trip to Costa Rica, this could be a good option. Copa also runs a daily flight between San Jose and Guatemala City.

Wingo

Another Latin American low-cost airline, Wingo, flies into San Jose (SJO) from Panama City (PTY), Panama, twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. In addition, Wingo arrives in San Jose from Bogota (BOG), Colombia, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.    
 

Canadian Airlines

Air Canada

After seven months of not flying to Costa Rica due to the pandemic, Air Canada is back. Air Canada provides nonstop service from Toronto and Montreal to Guanacaste. They also offer flights from Toronto to San Jose. 

Air Transat

Air Transat flights are being resumed to either Costa Rica’s airport. But we highly recommend you check the website, as there are limited flights and seasonal to either Liberia Airport or San Jose. 

WestJet 

It looks like WestJet is back on but only flying to the Liberia Airport currently. If you head their website, it shows San Jose, but if you look up a flight to San Jose, there was none found. The route to the Liberia airport from Toronto will operate weekly on a Saturday. WestJet is also coming from Calgary to Costa Rica. 

Sunwing

You will see flights running with Sunwing from Toronto to Liberia. Make sure you check the dates as they are specific dates. And if you can make those dates, then a win for you!

European Airlines

Air France

Air France, the French national airline, operates a direct service between Paris, France, and San Jose, Costa Rica. This 11.5-hour flight operates between the two cities on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. When flying from Costa Rica to France, you arrive a day later (on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday).    
 

British Airways

British Airways has returned to flying to Costa Rica after being out for 18 months due to the pandemic. Unfortunately, you will not be able to find a direct from the U.K.; you will have to take a connecting flight through Europe (Madrid, for example) or North America.     
 

Edelweiss

Swiss airline Edelweiss offers a varying schedule of direct flights to San Jose (SJO), Costa Rica, from Zurich (ZRH), Switzerland, depending on the time of year. Edelweiss flies weekly between Zurich and San Jose on Fridays in August, September, and October. Then from November to April, it increases its service to three times a week – Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays – before dropping to a twice-weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) for May, June, and July. This direct route is about 12 hours of flying time.    
 

Iberia

Spanish national carrier Iberia offers direct flights to Costa Rica from Europe, with a Madrid (MAD) to San Jose (SJO) service operating once daily, which is the only European airline offering a daily flight to Costa Rica. Flight time is around 11 hours for this route.    
 

Iberojet 

Iberojet is another Spanish carrier offering direct flights between Madrid (MAD) and San Jose (SJO). This airline began its Costa Rica operations in July 2021 and flew twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.    
 

KLM

Dutch carrier KLM operates a triangle service connecting Costa Rica with Schiphol Airport (AMS) in Amsterdam. By triangle-service, we mean KLM departs Amsterdam and flies directly to San Jose (SJO). It then hops up to Guanacaste Airport (LIR) and flies back to the Netherlands from there. Flight time between the two countries is around 14 hours, and it flies this route three times per week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.    
 

Lufthansa

The national airline of Germany, Lufthansa, flies direct from Frankfurt (FRA) to San Jose (SJO) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The flight duration takes around 12 hours.    
 

Condor

Condor is flying to Costa Rica, and t the flight is heading into San Jose. In addition, you will see flights from Dusseldorf and Munich.

TUI

TUI will fly you into Liberia Airport from the London Airport. You will want to plan with this airline because the flights book quickly. Give yourself at least 1 - 2 months to grab a flight.      
 

And while we just gave you a ton of information about different airlines, make sure you head to the airlines' websites to confirm what we have found for you.     
 

When Are Tickets Cheapest?

Once upon a time, before the internet, you used to use a travel agent to buy flights or go directly through the airline. You'd call them or head down to their office, and they'd hook up your flights for you through a computerized reservation system.

If you were in the office, the agent would sit on one side of a desk, and you another. They'd have access to airlines, flight numbers, and airlines on their screens and give you some options. Prices would be similar, although they might vary depending on the airline. You'd then choose your flight, pay for it, and return in a few days to pick up your tickets (or have them mailed to you). There was no real way of determining when tickets would be cheaper or not.    
 

There's a reason for the history lesson. It's to point out how things used to be compared to how they are now. Nowadays, it's all changed. For example, airline ticket prices vary on a whim, and things can get confusing when looking for a flight deal.

Going forward, we'll assume you don't have air miles or belong to any individual airline's reward program. We'll also assume you're not traveling standby or working for an airline. This is about finding the cheapest airfare to Costa Rica as regular travel with no perks in front of you.    
 

Those with air miles should know the value of your miles (or points) changes depending on the time of year. The busier travel times discussed below can mean your miles drop slightly in value. Check with your airline.    
 

Airline Ticket Prices Vary on Two Fronts

First, there's the seasonal reason. It's cheaper or more expensive to fly to Costa Rica depending on how popular Costa Rica happens to be during a particular time of year. And then there are the whims of the airlines themselves. So let's take the seasonal reason first.    
 

It makes sense to assume that nonstop flights to Costa Rica (or any flights, for that matter) will be less expensive when fewer people travel to Costa Rica. And Costa Rica has definite tourist seasons, so it's pretty easy to figure out when flights will be cheaper.    
 

The high tourist season in Costa Rica runs in line with the dry season when it doesn't rain so much. The dry season (or "summer") runs from around mid-December until the end of April, and you can expect flights to be more expensive during that time. Not always, but generally. The rest of the year, from May to early December, is low season, or green season, and it's wetter, which means fewer tourists and lower airfare.    
 

Reminder: This Is Our General Guide but Keep In Mind, Things Change

It would be best if you also considered school holidays in the United States, Canada, and other countries. Ditto national holidays like Labor Day or Thanksgiving, when many travels. You can expect flights to be more expensive during the school summer holidays, even during the green season in Costa Rica. Many people travel to Costa Rica in June, July, and August because school's out.    
 

Flights to Costa Rica are most expensive over Christmas and Easter – school holidays coinciding with the dry season. They remain higher in January and February, dropping down in May before rising again in June, July, and August. September and October are the wettest months in Costa Rica, with the least tourists and the best flight deals. November is the same before you get the Thanksgiving spike and a slight drop in early December before Christmas travel kicks in, and prices shoot up.

Again, consider the above a general guide. You can find deals during peak travel times and also find yourself shocked at high prices in the low season. But consider this a general rule of thumb.    
 

Check out our guide for the best time to visit Costa Rica for more info on each month's pros and cons (outside of flight prices).    
 

Outsiders Looking In at Airlines and Flights

We say "outsiders" because we don't work for the airlines and have no actual insight into their pricing algorithms. As someone once said, they're a mystery wrapped in a riddle inside an enigma. But we'll try anyway.

The first thing to know about booking flights online is that airfare opens up about a year in advance. So you can buy your tickets anytime from the same day of travel to a year in the future. Beyond a year, you have to wait.    
 

The best thing to do when looking for good flight deals is to get on it as soon as possible, once you know your travel dates. We recommend using an app like Hopper, which does a lot of the work of figuring things out for you. Hopper differs from booking sites like Expedia because its whole schtick is about finding the right time to book a flight. So, for example, if you're looking for flights from Atlanta to Costa Rica, you'd download the app to your phone, enter your route, and they'll show you a calendar telling you the dates with the cheapest and most expensive fares. If your dates are flexible, this is the perfect way to get a deal.    
 

Remember the Days

There used to be a time when booking a flight on a Sunday at midnight was cheaper. Or Tuesdays at 3:00 PM. Or whatever. Travel sites have torn themselves into pieces going nuts about this, trying to beat the algorithms. According to Hopper, though, it doesn't matter. They say booking no later than three weeks before your trip is most important. Sure, there might be changes before that, but they're negligible. Booking within three weeks, though, pretty much guarantees a more expensive flight.    
 

One note on booking three weeks in advance. Treat that as the latest time you should book. If you're traveling to Costa Rica during the December-April high season, please book as far in advance as possible – like months. That especially goes for travel over Christmas, Easter, and February (Spring Break season).    
 

So the general rules here are to avoid peak travel dates and book over three weeks in advance (unless it's high/peak season when you should book as far as possible). So now we'll delve down a little further on this theme and look at the best days of the week to travel to Costa Rica.    
 

What Days of the Week Are Best to Travel?

Most people tend to travel at weekends, or failing that, on Fridays. It makes sense, after all. However, if you're traveling to Costa Rica for a week, you want to make the most of your time and stretch it out if possible.    
 

Traveling on a Friday means you could eke out a couple of extra nights without losing work time. In addition, your seven-night vacation can become an eight or nine-night one if you fly home on Saturday or Sunday. What's not to love about that?    
 

Well, one thing not to love is that you're not alone and everyone else is doing the same thing, which means that Fridays and Sundays are the busiest, most expensive days of the week to travel. If you can avoid these days, do it unless you don't mind paying more money and dealing with more lines and crowds at the airport.    
 

Midweek is vital for those with flexible schedules who want the most straightforward, stress-free flight that isn't private.

It's a long-known and famous old travel hack to fly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For the most part, airports are less busy on those days, and planes are emptier. Plus, there's the question of price. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally cheaper.

Mondays and Thursdays are the next best days to fly for the same reasons, with Saturdays also coming in as an excellent second-best option if you can't make Tuesday or Wednesday. But, it's because Saturday is crammed between those busy Fridays and Sundays. In addition, Saturday is the heart of the weekend, and who wants to be traveling then?    
 

As ever with flights, this is just a general guide. Holidays – in either your country of origin or Costa Rica – can throw the whole thing out of whack.

For example, a long weekend in the United States like Thanksgiving (always on a Thursday) can turn those usually cheap and peaceful Tuesday and Wednesday traveling days into chaos. Remember the movie Planes, Trains, and Automobiles?    
 

It's a myth that the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year, but it's close. If you plan to travel that in November, why not on Thanksgiving Thursday itself? You'll have the skies much more to yourself and get to celebrate turkey day on the beach if you're early enough.    
 

Same thing with July 4th, Christmas, and, well, just about any other holiday.    
 

U.S. Independence Day is another super-busy time to fly. And if July 4th falls on a Saturday or Sunday, then either side of the weekend becomes tougher than it would typically be. So, like Thanksgiving, try to travel on the 4th and avoid the crowds.    
 

Christmas is another time to throw the established rules out of the window. Avoiding December 23rd and 24th is a good idea, ditto the 26th and the days around New Year. Remember what we said earlier about flying to Costa Rica over this period? It's the busiest time of the year for tourism, and so never completely ideal. But if you can fly on December 25th, December 31st, or January 1st. You might find it slightly less hectic.    
 

Tips & Tricks on Customs, Immigration

You've followed this guide and found some great flight tickets to Costa Rica from the city of your choice with the airline of your choice. You have a tremendous direct connection at a reasonable price, midweek, with little stress. All you have to do now is show up at the airport, check in, board, take off, travel, and arrive. Now what?    
 

Of course, you need your passport to travel to Costa Rica (valid for at least three months after your arrival date). You're going nowhere without that.    
 

Upon arrival, the norm used to give travelers 90 days in the country, which is the maximum allowed. However, the official rule for immigration is to provide tourists UP TO 90 DAYS, and anything from zero to 90 is up to their discretion.    
 

As an obvious tourist on vacation, you'll be fine, although you'll now see they give you the exact number of days you're insured for or when your flight home departs, instead of an automatic 90 days. You'll see how long they give you by the number they write over your entry stamp in your passport. Once you're stamped into Costa Rica, it's over to baggage claim and customs. Try to travel as light as possible to avoid waiting around baggage claim, but if you can't do that, mark your cases to make them distinguishable and easy to notice on the carousel. Then, pick up your bags, head to customs, put them through the x-ray, and you're out the door onto the street.    
 

As a client of Luxe Travel CR, we offer a unique concierge service to help you through the arrival process from the moment you come off the plane. We'll take you through immigration, baggage claim, customs, and out to meet your driver to take you to your hotel. Ask us about this. It's a great perk to have, especially during these strange times.    
 

So That's Your Ultimate Guide To Flying To Costa Rica

Now all you have to do is enjoy your vacation and then reverse on the other side. One thing to remember when traveling home is that you might need to take a Covid-19 test to enter the country you live in. Our team on the ground here will help you with all aspects of getting Covid tests, so don't hesitate to ask them.    
 

FAQs

Which airlines are flying to Costa Rica?

The major airlines are back to flying to Costa Rica. Check out United, Delta, American, Air Canada, Southwest Airlines, British Airways, Jetblue, and British Airways.     
 

What month is the cheapest to fly to Costa Rica?

Usually, from May to early December is when it is the low season or green season. As a result, it is wetter, which means fewer tourists but lower airfare.    
 

Where can I fly from Costa Rica?

The two international airports are San Jose and Liberia (Guanacaste). Still, other airports available are Nosara, Carrillo/Samara, Quepos, La Fortuna, Punta Islita, Tamarindo, Tambor, Tortuguero, and Golfito, to name some of the smaller airports.

What cities have direct flights to Costa Rica?

From the Guanacaste Airport: Atlanta, Amsterdam, Austin, Baltimore/Washington, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, Orlando, and San Francisco    
 

From the San Jose Airport: Amsterdam, Atlanta, Bogota, Boston, Cancun, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Frankfurt, Fort Lauderdale, Guatemala City, Houston, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico City, Miami, New York, Newark, Orlando, Panama City, Paris, San Salvador, Toronto, and Zurich.

What is the best airline to fly to Costa Rica?

It truly depends on where you are coming from, what city you are flying into, and what you prefer. At least, that's how we see it. A Travel Consultant may love one airline, but another may hate it. So, we want to provide you more with your time in Costa Rica than picking what airline. 

Don't Forget These Essentials: Packing List for Your Costa Rica Trip

Planning a trip to Costa Rica and unsure about what to pack? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Costa Rica offers stunning landscapes, a tropical climate, and an array of outdoor activities. Whether you're embarking on a rainforest hike, enjoying the beach, or exploring the city, it's important to pack the essentials. Here's a handy packing list for your Costa Rica vacation.

1. Packing Guide for Clothing

When planning a trip to Costa Rica, it's important to consider the two seasons: rainy season (May-November) and dry season (December-April). Your packing list may vary depending on the time of your visit. In the rainy season, be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho, waterproof shoes or sandals, and quick-drying clothes. It's also advisable to bring a waterproof bag or cover for your electronics and valuables. During the dry season, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. However, keep in mind that some parts of the country may still experience rain, so having a rain jacket is always a good idea.

Note: This is a suggested packing list with recommended quantities for your vacation. Adjust the numbers based on the duration of your tropical getaway.

Essential Clothing:

Swimsuit (2-3, for convenience and comfort)

Shirts, Tank Tops, and Crop Tops (Choose lightweight and breathable options, and consider lighter colors for cooler temperatures)

Shorts (Bring a few pairs, as they may get wet during water activities)

Lightweight Jacket or Sweatshirt (For rain or cooler evenings)

Bras, Bralettes, and Sports Bras (Consider comfort in high humidity)

Underwear (Pack enough for the duration of your trip)

Socks (Mostly for adventure tours)

Sleepwear (Opt for light and comfortable options)

Hat (Protect your face from the sun)

Sunglasses (Consider bringing a spare)

Handy Clothing (Not essential but useful):

Loose Sundresses (Ideal for beach areas with high humidity)

Exercise shorts (Great for hot weather and physical activities)

Skirts (Versatile and easy to combine with various tops)

Cocktail Dress (Choose a loose and elegant option for nicer establishments)

Jeans or Khakis (For cooler areas or night activities)

Umbrella (Consider bringing one, but they are readily available in Costa Rica)

Small backpack (Useful for hikes and longer tours, although some tour operators provide bags)

Please adjust the packing quantities to suit your specific travel needs and preferences.

2. Shoes Packing List

To save space in your suitcase, wear your biggest and bulkiest shoes on the plane. For your Costa Rica trip, bring sandals or flip-flops, strap-on water shoes with thick soles, tennis shoes or hiking boots, and comfortable slip-on flats.

3. Toiletries Packing List

When it comes to toiletries, Costa Rica offers plenty of options to purchase what you need. However, if you have specific brand preferences, it's recommended to pack the essentials. Here's a helpful toiletries packing list to ensure you're prepared for your Costa Rica adventure.

Essential Toiletries:

Face sunscreen and body sunscreen (Choose high-quality sunscreen with a high SPF, as the Costa Rican sun is intense. Remember to reapply every two hours.)

Bug repellent (As our tropical paradise is home to various insects, eco-friendly repellent options are worth considering.)

Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (While most hotels provide these, bring your own if you have specific hair care requirements.)

Toothpaste and toothbrush

Deodorant (Due to the humidity, regular application is recommended.)

Hair ties and clips (Useful for managing frizz in humid conditions.)

Not Essential, But Handy Toiletries:

Calamine lotion (Relieves itchiness from bug bites or sunburns.)

Aloe vera gel (Provides soothing relief for sunburns.)

Brush or comb (Helps manage hair in high humidity.)

Razor (Pack according to personal preference.)

Facial cleanser and spot treatment (Keep your face clean and fresh after outdoor activities.)

Makeup and makeup remover (Bring what makes you comfortable, with SPF products being a smart choice.)

Feminine hygiene products (Readily available in stores throughout Costa Rica.)

Band-Aids, antibacterial cream, and anti-inflammatories (While tour operators usually provide first aid kits, it's advisable to have your own supplies for emergencies.)

Medications (Although pharmacies in Costa Rica often don't require prescriptions, it's best to bring your own medication from home to ensure brand and dosage consistency.)

Remember to pack accordingly and enjoy your Costa Rica experience to the fullest!

4. Documents Packing List

When it comes to documents, it's essential to have the right items with you during your trip to Costa Rica. Here's a list of important documents to pack:

Passport and copy: Keep your original passport and a copy in separate bags for security purposes. The copy can be useful in case of passport loss or theft, as it assists in embassy procedures.

Driver's license: If you plan to drive in Costa Rica, ensure you have a valid driver's license from your home country. Tourists can drive for up to 90 days, which is the maximum duration of a tourist visa.

Proof of return ticket: Immigration may require proof of your departure date from Costa Rica. Make sure your return ticket indicates that you'll be leaving within 90 days of your entry.

Hotel confirmations: Provide your destination address during immigration and customs procedures. Having hotel confirmations handy helps in case of transfer delays or confusion.

Travel agency contact: Carry the 24/7 contact number of your travel agency for emergencies. Keep this information both digitally and in print in case your phone is inaccessible.

Travel itinerary: If you're traveling with us, we'll provide you with a detailed itinerary. Have it accessible in digital and printed formats to stay informed about your upcoming activities.

Medical and travel insurance information: Keep relevant insurance information readily available in case you need to contact them during your trip.

Cash, credit card, and debit card: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Costa Rica, it's wise to carry some cash as well. Not all places accept cards, and U.S. dollars are commonly accepted.

Ensure you have these documents organized and secure throughout your Costa Rica adventure.

5. Electronics & Entertainment Packing List

When it comes to electronics and entertainment, it's good to have a few items handy for specific moments during your Costa Rican vacation. Here's a packing list to consider:

1 or 2 entertainment items: Bring along a book, Kindle, iPad, or a handheld gaming console for moments like flights or road trips. However, you might find the captivating surroundings enough to keep you engaged during travel.

Cellphone and charger: Keep your cellphone and charger with you for communication and other essential functions.

Electrical socket adapter: If your plugs are different from the North American standard, consider bringing an adapter to ensure compatibility.

Step-up or step-down voltage transformer: If your electronics require a voltage other than 110-120 volts, a voltage transformer may be necessary.

Headphones: Carry a pair of headphones for personal audio enjoyment or to block out noise during travel.

Laptop and charger: If you plan to work during your trip, bring your laptop and charger. Otherwise, it may be best to leave it at home to fully unwind.

GoPro, charger, and extra batteries: Capture your activities with a GoPro camera and bring its charger and spare batteries. The advantage of a GoPro is its ability to be attached securely while you enjoy your adventures.

Waterproof phone case: For water-related activities, consider using a waterproof phone case that allows you to use your phone even while it's protected.

Remember that while some downtime might arise during your trip, you may find yourself quite tired and ready to rest. Being fully immersed in a new country can be exhausting, so prioritize relaxation and being refreshed for the upcoming days.

Things You Might Not Need to Pack

When it comes to optimizing your suitcase space, it's important to identify items that you may not need to pack. Consider the following:

Formal clothes: In Costa Rica, even at nicer restaurants, you'll blend in perfectly with a cute cocktail dress, nice shorts, or pants. On the beach, stylish shorts are also acceptable.

Safari clothes: While it's essential to bring comfortable clothing suitable for a warm and humid environment, keep in mind that you won't be in the "jungle" throughout your entire trip. Pack accordingly for a tropical country experience.

Outlet and voltage adapters: If you're traveling from North America, you won't require outlet or voltage adapters. However, travelers from other countries should check Costa Rica's plug and voltage guidelines.

Portable USB charger: While it's optional to bring a portable USB charger, it may not be necessary. Most hotels, tours, and transportation options offer outlets where you can conveniently charge your electronics.

Guidebook: Feel free to bring a guidebook if you enjoy researching a country this way. However, keep in mind that online information is often more up-to-date due to the constant evolution of countries and cultures.

Water purifier: In Costa Rica, the water is generally safe to drink in almost every region, particularly in restaurants and hotels. Therefore, a water purifier is not typically required.

Hair dryer: Check with your travel agency regarding the hotels on your itinerary, but most accommodations nowadays provide hair dryers. It's one less item you'll likely need to bring.

Beach towel: Different hotels have different policies, but most establishments offer special towels that you can take to the beach. Check with your hotel to see if you need to pack a beach towel.

By identifying these items as potentially unnecessary, you can make more informed decisions about what to pack, ensuring a more efficient use of your suitcase space.

Costa Rica Packing List Conclusion

In conclusion, it's important to pack light and leave some space in your suitcase for souvenirs. However, the most essential things to bring with you to Costa Rica are your sense of adventure and curiosity. With the tips and recommendations provided, you'll be well-prepared to fully enjoy and make the most of your vacation in Costa Rica!