1. Airlines Flying to Costa Rica
Several international airlines operate flights to Costa Rica, often connecting through major hubs:
- American Airlines – direct flights from U.S. cities
- Delta Air Lines – connections via U.S. hubs
- United Airlines – direct and connecting flights
- Avianca – flights via Central American hubs
- KLM, Air France – connections through European airports
- Low-cost carriers – limited regional flights available seasonally
2. Major Costa Rica Airports
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) – near San José, main international gateway
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) – near Liberia, popular for Pacific coast resorts
3. Typical Flight Prices
- Round-trip tickets from Europe to Costa Rica vary by season and airline, often starting from moderate prices when booked early.
- Flights from the U.S. are generally shorter and can be more affordable with early bookings.
- Business or premium class fares are significantly higher than economy class.
- Peak season (December to April) typically has higher prices compared to off-season months.
4. Where to Buy Flight Tickets
- Airline Websites: Booking directly ensures official confirmation and support.
- Flight Comparison Tools: Skyscanner, Kiwi.com, Google Flights for price comparisons.
- Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Pelikan, Expedia, eDreams, or other platforms for bundled options.
- Travel Agencies: Local or online agents can help with complex itineraries or multi-city trips.
5. Tips for Getting Cheap Tickets
- Book several months in advance to get lower fares.
- Be flexible with travel dates and departure airports.
- Consider flights with connections for potential savings.
- Use price alerts on comparison websites to track changes.
- Travel during the off-peak season to reduce ticket costs.
6. Things to Do in Costa Rica
- Explore rainforests and national parks such as Manuel Antonio and Corcovado
- Relax on Pacific and Caribbean beaches
- Visit volcanoes like Arenal and Poás
- Experience zip-lining, rafting, and eco-tourism adventures
- Enjoy Costa Rican cuisine and local cultural experiences