A riverside village with colorful houses, a large fort on a hill, and lush greenery.

$87 Cheap Flights to El Castillo

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How much is the cheapest flight to El Castillo?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $87 for one-way flights and $212 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Volaris Costa Rica
Copa
Frontier Airlines
Arajet
JetBlue Airways

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to San José (SJO)

From $303 - $585 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight to El Castillo

Flights to El Castillo at a glance

Traveling to El Castillo is straightforward—select from a range of full-service or budget airlines, compare travel times, and choose the option that aligns with your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near El Castillo: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
  • Flights per week: 2,050+ flights arriving at El Castillo airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to El Castillo: around 25+ carriers

Popular airport near El Castillo

El Castillo is a charming village ideal for vacations focused on outdoor activities, adventure, and picturesque scenery. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful beaches, romantic atmosphere, and thrilling experiences. The village is conveniently accessible via a major airport.

  • Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Situated in Cantón Alajuela, Alajuela Province, approximately 48 miles from El Castillo, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It connects passengers to around 8 domestic cities and boasts over 230 international destinations. For those seeking a more luxurious travel experience, there are options to upgrade to business class, premium economy, and first class seating, varying by routes and airlines. Notable carriers operating here include United, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.

Top routes to El Castillo

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to El Castillo (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $150
  • Newark (EWR) to El Castillo (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $120
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to El Castillo (SJO), with one-way airfare from around $110
  • Miami (MIA) to El Castillo (SJO), with one-way tickets available from around $95
  • Orlando (MCO) to El Castillo (SJO), with one-way airfare from around $55

Cheapest routes to El Castillo

  • Orlando (MCO) to El Castillo (SJO), with budget one-way fares from around $55
  • San Juan (SJU) to El Castillo (SJO), with cheap one-way fares from around $90
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to El Castillo (SJO), with cheap one-way fares from around $90
  • San Salvador (SAL) to El Castillo (SJO), with low one-way fares from around $90
  • Guatemala City (GUA) to El Castillo (SJO), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $95

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

Top airlines with flights to El Castillo

  • American Airlines: This airline operates flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and is responsible for about 26% of arrivals at El Castillo. The typical one-way ticket price hovers around $320, and travelers may find business class as a premium cabin choice depending on the specific route.
  • United: United Airlines services Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), accounting for nearly 20% of arrivals at El Castillo. Average one-way fares are approximately $330, with the option for business class available as a premium cabin selection, contingent upon the route.
  • Avianca: Operating flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Avianca makes up around 11% of arrivals at El Castillo. With an average one-way fare of about $330, passengers may also have the opportunity to choose business class as a premium cabin option based on the route.
  • Copa: Copa Airlines flies to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), representing around 11% of arrivals at El Castillo. The average one-way fare is roughly $310, and travelers can expect business class as a premium cabin choice depending on the specific route taken.
  • JetBlue Airways: JetBlue Airways operates flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), accounting for about 7% of arrivals at El Castillo. The average one-way fare is approximately $260, and travelers might find premium economy class as a cabin option based on the route selected.

Best time to fly to El Castillo

The most popular months for travelers to fly to El Castillo are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in El Castillo can reach up to 81.9°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 79.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $221), roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $224 to $237, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHigh$295
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHigh$293
March81.9°F (27.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHigh$304
April82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$295
May81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$250
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$278
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$289
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$237
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$221
October78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$224
November78.3°F (25.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$251
December78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$378

*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 El Castillo

Getting some of the best deals on flights to El Castillo 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*, or explore our El Castillo hotel and flight deals.
  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 El Castillo flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in El Castillo

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

  • Public transportation: From Juan Santamaría International Airport, Bahia Drake Seaport, a seaport, is located about 1.5 miles away by car, while San Antonio de Belen Station, a train station, is situated approximately 2.8 miles away by car, providing convenient options for travelers seeking to explore the area.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in El Castillo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in El Castillo is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in El Castillo 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 El Castillo

  • La Fortuna: La Fortuna is a vibrant city located 17 miles drive away from El Castillo. This destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Key attractions include the majestic Arenal Volcano, perfect for exploration, and the rejuvenating Tabacon Hot Springs, ideal for relaxation. Don’t miss the picturesque La Fortuna Waterfall, a romantic spot surrounded by lush nature, making it a must-visit for your outdoor vacation.
  • Monteverde: Monteverde is located 9 miles drive away from El Castillo and is renowned for its breathtaking cloud forests and diverse ecosystems. This area is a playground for nature lovers, with highlights such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, where you can experience unique wildlife. Also, visit the enchanting Monteverde Butterfly Gardens and the exquisite Monteverde Orchid Garden, perfect for families and outdoor adventurers alike, making it a delightful stop on your journey.
  • Venado: Venado is located 11 miles drive away from El Castillo and offers a mix of adventure and natural beauty. This charming city is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Arenal Volcano National Park, which is ideal for both scenery and outdoor activities. Be sure to unwind at Tabacon Hot Springs for a soothing experience, or take a stroll through Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park to enjoy the stunning views and rich biodiversity in the area.

Tips for short-haul flights to El Castillo

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

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning outfits strategically. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to charge your devices fully before boarding.
  • 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 prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to El Castillo

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 often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make it a point to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights. This will give you ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and easily accessible.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin the process of syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to El Castillo?
May is the cheapest month to travel to El Castillo. Demand is lower then, so fares are generally more affordable. Booking your trip outside of school and public holidays can also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to El Castillo?
Choose from 13 US destinations with direct flights to El Castillo. When reserving on Expedia, check "Direct flights only" to compare nonstop routes. Fly to El Castillo from any of these leading cities:
  • Houston
  • Orlando
  • Fort Lauderdale
  • Miami
  • Atlanta
How to find a cheap flight to El Castillo?
Book in advance or search for cheap flights to El Castillo during off-season months like June and October. Leaving on a Thursday could also save you an average of 16% compared to a Sunday departure.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know when to book. Just activate the toggle for "Watch prices" and you'll receive a notification when there's a better deal.*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 El Castillo?
Being flexible about your plans might help you to find last-minute offers on cheap flights to El Castillo. To view all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, changing your El Castillo vacation dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or going with another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to El Castillo?
Get the travel dates you want and a fare your budget will love by booking your domestic flight to El Castillo up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're jetting to El Castillo from an international destination.**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 El Castillo?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the most expensive day to book.* When it comes to scoring a cheap flight to El Castillo, the key is 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.
Which airlines fly to El Castillo?
There are 24 carriers that connect El Castillo with 40 airports around the globe. The chief entry point to this city is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO). Book a fare with any of these popular airlines to El Castillo:
  • Copa Airlines
  • SANSA Regional
  • GetJet Airlines
  • AVIANCA
Where do you fly into El Castillo?
The main hub when you fly to El Castillo is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), but there are other nearby choices like Tobias Bolanos Intl. Airport (SYQ) and Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR). You can also land at La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) and Canas (CSC) when flying to El Castillo.
How far is the airport from central El Castillo?
You'll be around 50 mi southeast of the center of El Castillo after touching down at Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO).
Can I save money by booking an El Castillo trip package?
It's possible to save hundreds of dollars if you secure an El Castillo flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll save time and hassle by having all your travel arrangements in one place. Try bundling flights and hotels with add-ons like car rentals and activities for your own personalized El Castillo getaway.
Can I change or cancel my flight to El Castillo?
You can usually change or cancel your flight to El Castillo within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued a credit toward future travel rather than a direct refund. Make sure you check the airline's rules and restrictions in your itinerary for exact details. You can use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters when you search to find cheap flights to El Castillo with flexible change policies. For more information, visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to El Castillo

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to El Castillo on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

May is the cheapest month to fly to El Castillo. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to El Castillo. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to El Castillo, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to El Castillo

The lowest price for round-trip flights to El Castillo in 2026 starts from from $212, while one-way tickets start from from $87. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to El Castillo. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to El Castillo

Volaris Costa Rica, Arajet, Delta, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Copa, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to El Castillo. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to El Castillo and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for El Castillo, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to El Castillo. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your El Castillo plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to El Castillo

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to El Castillo.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to El Castillo are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to El Castillo. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to El Castillo for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to El Castillo. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate El Castillo flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to El Castillo. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to El Castillo

Travel information

Destination airport
Arenal
Destination airport IATA code
FON
Destination city name
La Fortuna
Roundtrip price
$314

Trending flights to El Castillo

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $87 for one-way flights and $212 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Volaris Costa Rica

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