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$157 Cheap Flights to Carate

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Open Photo by Vincent Leblanc

How much is the cheapest flight to Carate?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $157 for one-way flights and $345 for roundtrip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $355 - $803 per traveler.

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Flights to Carate at a glance

Traveling to Carate is easy, with a range of full-service airlines providing multiple flight options. Evaluate journey times and choose the best fit for your schedule as you plan to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Carate: Quepos Airport (XQP), Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), Drake Bay Airport (DRK)
  • Closest airport to Carate: Puerto Jiménez Airport, PJM (around 13 miles)
  • Flights per week: 28 flights arriving across Carate airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Carate: around 3 carriers

Popular airports near Carate

Carate is a charming village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and beautiful beaches. Travelers are drawn to its eco-friendly charm, and the area is accessible via three major airports.

  • Quepos Airport (XQP): Situated in Cantón Quepos, Puntarenas Province, approximately 82 miles from Carate, this airport primarily operates domestic flights. FlexFlight and Servicios Aereos Nacionales S.A. are among the notable airlines servicing this location.
  • Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM): Found in Cantón Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas Province, just about 13 miles from Carate, this airport caters to domestic travel. Key airlines that operate here include FlexFlight, Servicios Aereos Nacionales S.A., and Hahn Air.
  • Drake Bay Airport (DRK): Located in Cantón Osa, Puntarenas Province, roughly 22 miles from Carate, this airport focuses on domestic routes. FlexFlight and Servicios Aereos Nacionales S.A. are among the popular carriers providing service at this airport.

Top routes to Carate

  • San Jose (SJO) to Carate (PJM/XQP/DRK), with one-way fares starting at around $110

Cheapest routes to Carate

  • San Jose (SJO) to Carate (PJM/XQP/DRK), with affordable one-way prices from around $110

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

Top airlines with flights to Carate

  • FlexFlight: Operating flights to Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), Quepos Airport (XQP), and Drake Bay Airport (DRK), FlexFlight represents about 64% of arrivals in Carate. The average one-way ticket costs around $160.
  • Servicios Aereos Nacionales S.A.: This airline services Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), Quepos Airport (XQP), and Drake Bay Airport (DRK), contributing approximately 36% of Carate's arrivals. Expect an average one-way fare of about $140.
  • Hahn Air: Hahn Air operates flights specifically to Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), with average one-way fares sitting at approximately $220.

Best time to fly to Carate

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Carate are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Carate can reach up to 80.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 77.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $111), roughly 14% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September and November offer average one-way fares of around $116, making them good options for flexible travelers.

MonthTemperaturePrecipitationCloudinessDemandAverage one-way Fare
January78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$135
February79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$134
March80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$144
April80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyHigh$141
May79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$134
June78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$129
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$130
August78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$126
September78.3°F (25.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$113
October77.5°F (25.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$111
November77.5°F (25.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$118
December77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$138

*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 Carate

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Carate 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 Carate 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 Carate flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Carate

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

  • Public transportation: From Quepos Airport, Quepos Seaport, a seaport, is located about 3.3 miles away, typically reached by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Carate, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Carate is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Carate 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 Carate

  • Sirena: Located 9 miles away from Carate, Sirena is a captivating village that offers travelers a blend of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, it is an ideal base for exploring Corcovado National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and lush scenery. Relax on Playa Sirena, a pristine beach perfect for sunbathing or swimming, and visit La Tarde Wildlife Area to experience the rich biodiversity of the region. Sirena truly embodies the spirit of adventure, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Dos Brazos: Dos Brazos is located 7 miles away from Carate and features a vibrant community perfect for outdoor explorers. With access to scenic hiking trails, this village invites travelers to immerse themselves in nature. The Corcovado National Park Office serves as a gateway to the park’s wonders, while the nearby Puerto Jimenez Pier offers a charming spot to watch local fishermen at work. Carate Beach, a short distance away, provides another opportunity to enjoy the sun and surf, making Dos Brazos an excellent choice for adventure seekers.
  • Agujas: Agujas is located 11 miles away from Carate and is a picturesque village that appeals to those seeking outdoor activities and stunning views. Nestled near water features and lagoons, it offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and exploration. The Corcovado National Park Office is nearby, providing access to one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated national parks. Don’t miss the chance to visit Blanca Beach, a tranquil spot ideal for sun-soaking and enjoying the coastal scenery. Agujas is a true gem for nature lovers.

Tips for short-haul flights to Carate

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 your space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your largest clothing items, and organizing your outfits wisely. This 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. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself occupied. 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 get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours ahead of your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save on costs at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Carate

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide seat selection even earlier.
  • 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 some 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. Free airport Wi-Fi is generally available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and 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.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Carate

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Carate 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

December is the cheapest month to fly to Carate. 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 Carate. 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 Carate, 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 Carate

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Carate in 2026 starts from $345, while one-way tickets start from from $157. 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 Carate. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Carate

Delta, United, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Copa are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Carate. 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 Carate and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Carate, 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 Carate. 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 Carate 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 Carate

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 Carate.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Carate are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Carate. 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 Carate 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 Carate. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Carate 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 Carate. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Carate?

Schedule your trip for December if you want to get a good price on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Carate. If possible, avoid traveling during peak periods such as major public holidays or during big events.

Which US cities fly direct to Carate?

Take your pick of 17 US destinations with direct flights to Carate. When you book on Expedia, click on "Direct flights only" to find nonstop options. Fly to Carate from any of these top cities:

  • Miami
  • Orlando
  • Los Angeles
  • Washington
  • New York

How to find a cheap flight to Carate?

Traveling in the low season and booking early are two of the best ways to secure cheap flights to Carate. Or, consider flying on a Thursday, which is on average 16% cheaper than departing on a Sunday.* Want to be the first to know as soon as fares drop? Set up price tracking on the Expedia app for real-time updates.

*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 Carate?

It's possible to get cheap deals on last-minute departures to Carate, especially if your travel plans are flexible. Consider your options for flying from a different hub, changing your trip dates or selecting another airline to get a cheap flight to Carate.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Carate?

Lock in your flight to Carate two to four months ahead if you're coming in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Lower prices and a greater choice 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 Carate?

Sundays are typically the best day to book a cheap flight to Carate, with savings of about 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you choose to purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to spend more as this is typically the most expensive day.*

*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 Carate?

When you're ready to lock in your flight to Carate, these well-known carriers look forward to welcoming you on board:

  • Copa Airlines - 932 flights to Carate each month, including 932 flights to Tocumen Intl. Airport (PTY) per month.
  • United Airlines - 282 flights to Carate each month, including 152 flights to Tocumen Intl. Airport (PTY) per month.
  • American Airlines - 212 flights to Carate each month, including 182 flights to Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) per month.

Where do you fly into Carate?

The main airport when you fly to Carate is Puerto Jimenez Airport (PJM), but there are other nearby choices like Drake Bay Airport (DRK) and Golfito Airport (GLF). You can also arrive at Palmar (PMZ-Palmar Sur) and Buenos Aires (BAI) when flying to Carate.

How far is the airport from central Carate?

You'll be about 12 mi northeast of central Carate after jetting into Puerto Jimenez Airport (PJM).

Can I save money by booking a Carate trip package?

Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better still, you can add extras like activities and car rentals to your Carate flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to look after all your Carate travel arrangements in one place.

Can I change or cancel my flight to Carate?

You can usually change or cancel your flight to Carate within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive a credit toward a future trip rather than a direct refund. It's important to check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for exact details. You can use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters when you search to secure cheap flights to Carate with flexible change policies. For additional information, head to our Customer Service Portal.

Travel information

Destination city name
San José
Destination airport
Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport
Destination airport IATA code
SJO
Airlines serving
Air Canada, American Airlines, Avianca, Delta, United, JetBlue Airways, Copa, Aeromexico, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, KLM, Air France, Iberia, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air Europa, Frontier Airlines, Volaris Costa Rica, LATAM Airlines Group, Air Transat, Swiss International Air Lines, Volaris, PD, Turkish Airlines, Breeze Airways, Sterling Blue, Qatar Airways, RZ, Evelop Airlines, Viva Aerobus, Hahn Air Technologies, Air China, Saudi Arabian Airlines, W1
Popular airline
Air Canada
Roundtrip price
$439

Trending flights to Carate

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $157 for one-way flights and $345 for roundtrip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.
*Available to One Key members.