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People fly to Costa Rica for nature focused trips that combine national parks, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, and surfing. It is also popular for resort style stays on the Pacific Coast and shorter trips that mix a city arrival with a beach extension.
Flight planning often comes down to choosing the best arrival airport for your itinerary. San JosÊ is typically the best starting point for the Central Valley, Arenal and La Fortuna, Monteverde, and many inland routes, while Liberia is usually faster for Guanacaste beaches and the northwest Pacific.
Costa Rica also works well for multi region itineraries, but drive times can be longer than expected. Picking the right airport and connection plan can reduce ground transfers and keep your schedule realistic.
Costa Ricaâs key airports for international arrivals and regional access include:
Juan SantamarÃa International Airport (SJO): Main gateway for the Central Valley and the most flexible option for inland touring, with the widest range of routes.
Daniel Oduber QuirÃŗs International Airport (LIR): Best option for Guanacaste and the northwest Pacific, often reducing transfer time to beach areas.
TobÃas BolaÃąos International Airport (SYQ): Convenient for domestic hops and charter style flights within the San JosÊ area when you are connecting to smaller destinations.
| Season | Regions | Weather & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Dry season (Dec to Apr) | Pacific Coast, Central Valley, Arenal region | Sunniest stretch for many areas, busiest travel period, book flights earlier for best schedules |
| Green season (May to Aug) | Pacific Coast, Central Valley | More rain, usually in afternoon patterns, often better availability and value |
| Peak rain months (Sep to Oct) | Pacific Coast and mountains | Rain can be heavier and more frequent, plan flexibility and consider shorter transfers |
| Caribbean favorable window (Sep to Oct) | Caribbean Coast | The Caribbean can have a different pattern than the Pacific, and these months are often a strong time for the Caribbean side |
Entry rules depend on nationality. Many travelers can enter for tourism with a valid passport and may be asked for proof of onward or return travel, while others require a visa in advance. Check the current requirements that apply to your passport before you book and travel.
A few practical tips can help you book smarter and travel more smoothly in Costa Rica:
Choose the right airport: SJO is usually best for inland routes, while LIR is often best for Guanacaste and the northwest Pacific coast.
Plan realistic ground transfers: Drive times can be longer than they look on a map, especially between regions.
Avoid tight connections: If you are connecting through a US hub, leave enough buffer for weather or schedule shifts.
Consider flexible dates: Moving your trip by a day can open better flight times and fares during high season.
Call for itinerary matching: Our experts can compare nonstop vs connecting options, arrival airports, and flight timing based on where you are staying.
Our agents will compare the best flight routes and send options tailored to your travel dates.
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