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$176 Cheap Flights to Costa Rica

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How much is the cheapest flight to Costa Rica?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $176 for one-way flights and $351 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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What you need to know for your flight to Costa Rica

Flights to Costa Rica at a glance

Traveling to Costa Rica is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight durations and select the option that best fits your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Costa Rica: Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE)
  • Flights per week: 600+ flights arriving at Costa Rica airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Costa Rica: around 10+ carriers

Popular airport near Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a vibrant destination known for its stunning beaches, bustling cities, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and rich culture. This charming village is conveniently served by a major airport, making it accessible for travelers.

  • Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE): Situated in Guayaquil, Guayas, approximately 86 miles from Costa Rica, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights, offering connections to about 4 domestic cities and over 70 international destinations. Travelers have the option to enhance their journey by upgrading to business class or premium economy seating for additional comfort, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating at this location include Avianca, JetBlue Airways, and Copa.

Top routes to Costa Rica

  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Costa Rica (GYE), with one-way tickets available from around $170
  • Miami (MIA) to Costa Rica (GYE), with one-way tickets available from around $140
  • Newark (EWR) to Costa Rica (GYE), with one-way airfare from around $160
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Costa Rica (GYE), with one-way flight options from around $95
  • Quito (UIO) to Costa Rica (GYE), with one-way tickets available from around $70

Cheapest routes to Costa Rica

  • Cuenca (CUE) to Costa Rica (GYE), with affordable one-way prices from around $60
  • Quito (UIO) to Costa Rica (GYE), with budget one-way fares from around $70
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Costa Rica (GYE), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $95
  • Austin (AUS) to Costa Rica (GYE), with affordable one-way prices from around $120
  • Tampa (TPA) to Costa Rica (GYE), with cheap one-way fares from around $120

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Costa Rica

  • Copa: This airline operates flights to Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), representing about 27% of Costa Rica's arrivals. The typical one-way fare is around $340, with premium options that may feature business class depending on the specific route.
  • Avianca: Providing service to Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), Avianca accounts for nearly 24% of arrivals to Costa Rica. Travelers can expect average one-way fares of around $300, and premium services may include business class based on the route.
  • LATAM Airlines Group: Offering flights to Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), LATAM Airlines Group is responsible for roughly 13% of arrivals to Costa Rica. One-way fares average about $290, with premium options that may consist of premium economy class, depending on the route.
  • United: Serving Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), United facilitates around 11% of Costa Rica's arrivals. Average one-way fares are approximately $310, and travelers may find premium cabin options that include business class based on the route.
  • JetBlue Airways: Flying into Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), JetBlue Airways contributes about 10% of arrivals to Costa Rica. The average one-way fare sits at around $300, with premium service options that may feature premium economy class depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Costa Rica

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Costa Rica are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Costa Rica can reach up to 78.3°F in February. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 73.4°F. For better deals, March usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $288, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, October, and April offer average one-way fares of around $299, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$306
February78.3°F (25.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$316
March78.1°F (25.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyHigh$288
April77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$301
May77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$306
June75.6°F (24.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$332
July74.1°F (23.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$356
August73.2°F (22.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$323
September73.4°F (23.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLow$297
October73.8°F (23.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$299
November74.5°F (23.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLow$320
December76.1°F (24.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$463

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Costa Rica

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Costa Rica is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia.*
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Costa Rica flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Costa Rica efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport, travelers can easily access several transport options. The Guayaquil Bus Terminal, located about 0.7 miles away on foot, offers convenient bus services, while the Santa Rosa Seaport, approximately 0.9 miles from the airport by car, provides maritime access. For rail connections, Duran Train Station is situated about 4 miles away by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Costa Rica, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Costa Rica is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Costa Rica on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Costa Rica

  • Huaquillas: Located 10 miles away from Costa Rica, Huaquillas offers a delightful blend of city life and outdoor experiences. Travelers can enjoy leisurely walks through urban parks or indulge in shopping at local venues. Key points of interest include the vibrant Juan Montalvo Park, perfect for relaxation, the culturally rich Machala Cathedral, and the historic Arenillas Central Church, all providing insights into the local heritage.
  • Arenillas: Situated 19 miles away from Costa Rica, Arenillas is a haven for beach lovers and adventure seekers. The area's natural beauty is complemented by nearby national parks and state parks, ideal for outdoor activities. Don't miss visiting Juan Montalvo Park, the impressive Machala Cathedral, and the charming Arenillas Central Church, each showcasing the city's cultural and historical significance.
  • Chacras: Located 15 miles away from Costa Rica, Chacras invites travelers to explore its inviting atmosphere and local charm. With attractions like Juan Montalvo Park, Machala Cathedral, and Arenillas Central Church, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's cultural heritage. Chacras serves as a great base for those looking to experience the beauty of the surrounding region while enjoying a taste of local life.

Tips for short-haul flights to Costa Rica

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often the more economical choice. Maximize space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This method also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself amused, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Costa Rica

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines may allow seat selection for free once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may offer earlier seat selection.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your internal clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Costa Rica?
Plan your trip for July if you want to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Costa Rica. If possible, avoid traveling during busy periods such as public holidays or school breaks.
Which US cities fly direct to Costa Rica?
Direct journeys are a great way to take the hassle out of travel. When you search on Expedia, check "Direct flights only" to see the available options to fly to Costa Rica.
How to find a cheap flight to Costa Rica?
If you're eager to find cheap flights to Costa Rica, consider traveling outside of peak season. Booking ahead of time is also likely to help you score savings. Or, look for departures on a different day — flights on a Thursday are on average 16% cheaper than Sunday departures.* Opt to receive flight price alerts on the Expedia app and get notifications when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Costa Rica?
While booking in advance is typically the easiest way to save money, don't worry if your Costa Rica vacation is last minute. You can still find cheap flights to Costa Rica, especially if your plans have a little leeway. Try switching up your trip dates, exploring different ticket types or flying out of an alternative hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Costa Rica?
Lock in your flight to Costa Rica two to four months ahead if you're visiting from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Bigger savings and a wider variety of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just a few of the benefits of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Costa Rica?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy plane tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to snapping up a cheap flight to Costa Rica, it's all about having good timing.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Where do you fly into Costa Rica?
If you're flying to Costa Rica, the main hub to touch down at is Santa Rosa Intl. Airport (ETR). Another option is to fly to Costa Rica via General M. Serrano Airport (MCH).
How far is the airport from central Costa Rica?
Landing at Santa Rosa Intl. Airport (ETR) puts you about 19 mi east of central Costa Rica.
Can I save money by booking a Costa Rica trip package?
You could potentially save hundreds of dollars if you secure a Costa Rica flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll save time and hassle by having all your travel plans in the same place. Try bundling flights and hotels with extras such as tours and car rentals for your own personalized Costa Rica break.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Costa Rica?
If you booked your flight to Costa Rica in the last 24 hours, you can often cancel or change it for free. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's rules and restrictions. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal. Keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may receive a credit toward future travel instead of a direct refund. When browsing on Expedia, select the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters to compare fares with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Santa Rosa Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
ETR
Destination city name
Santa Rosa Intl.
Roundtrip price
$351