What Destinations Offer Domestic Flights in Costa Rica?
Domestic flights are available to and from the following destinations: downtown San José, Alajuela-SJO, Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Liberia, Sámara, Tortuguero, Drake Bay, Puerto Jiménez, Golfito, Palmar Norte, Barra del Colorado, Tambor, and Bocas del Toro in Panamá. For more information about schedules, prices and booking, please vist our domestic flight page.
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Costa Rica Domestic Flights & Booking Service
Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia, but ground transportation can take many hours on its rough, windy, and mountainous roads. Depending on your travel route, domestic flights may be the most convenient and sensible option. Traveling between some destinations can take up to 8 hours by ground, while a domestic flight can cut that travel time to 35 minutes - a major time saver, especially if you have only a short time in Costa Rica.
Destinations: Where to Go in Costa Rica
Deciding where to go in Costa Rica can be a bit overwhelming, because the country’s incredible biodiversity and variable climate offers a multitude of places to explore and enjoy. Nature enthusiasts will be in heaven as they walk through cloud forests, and wildlife havens such as the Caño Negro Refuge wetlands. Adventurers will get their adrenaline fix whitewater rafting over roaring rapids, zooming through evergreen forests on a zip line, and braving the jungle after dark on rainforest night tours. The beauty of Costa Rica is that the answer to the question “Where to Visit in Costa Rica?” is: everywhere! You can’t go wrong, because the country offers something for every traveller. Going with the family? You'll enjoy wildlife and adventure tours in the Arenal Volcano region of La Fortuna. Planning a couple's getaway? Treat yourselves to the beaches of Tamarindo. The magic and beauty of Costa Rica is that you can plan almost any type of holiday. So, whether you're in search of rest and relaxation, a place to stay near the airport when you’re in-country on business, or the chance to see a volcano or toucan up-close, we have the solutions for all of your Costa Rica travel needs.
Bocas del Toro
With an archipelago that boasts impeccable beaches, turquoise waters, and a distinct Afro-Caribbean culture, it’s easy to see why this region has become a must-see for visitors to Panama. Located along the Caribbean coast in the northwestern part of the country, Bocas del Toro is known for its beautiful islands and laidback vibe, a combination that tends to attract younger backpacker types. Still, the services and amenities offered here are extensive, which makes it possible for travelers of all ages to enjoy the abundance of natural beauty that this region is famous for.
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
The charming and welcoming town of La Fortuna is a perfect getaway for families, couples, and friends. The only requisite is that you love outdoor adventure! So if you can’t wait to spend your vacation in the fresh air, biking, kayaking, hiking, and more, then discover why the Arenal region is just what you need. Best of all, you can enjoy luxe accommodations that boast volcanic views, and pamper yourself with a luxurious soak in a hot spring. Nature is waiting for you, and she’s easy to find when you book your Arenal adventure with Anywhere.
Barra del Colorado
Barra del Colorado is located in the north eastern corner of Costa Rica. This remote region is only accessible by plane or boat and is surrounded by the 400,000 acre Barra del Colorado nature Reserve. The region is a combination of rivers, canals, mangroves and rainforest that teems with wildlife. One of the biggest draws to the area is the giant Tarpon fish that lurk in the waters around Barra del Colorado.
Drake Bay
Resting on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is an adventure-seeker's paradise. It is named after Sir Francis Drake, who is believed to have ventured here in the late 16th century. Travelers here take on some of his adventurous spirit on treks through the primary rainforest.
Golfito
Opposite Puerto Jiménez, and across the Dulce Gulf, is the small town of Golfito, Costa Rica's only city situated within a declared protection area. Originally a banana port, 90% of the country’s banana exports came from Golfito during the 1950’s. Since then however, operations have shut down, dramatically affecting the local economy. In turn, the town has turned to the Duty-Free Shopping Center (Déposito Libre Comercial de Golfito) as its economic strength. The center sits at the north end of town and draws bargain shoppers from all over the country. Golfito is now a quiet port better known for being a gateway to the surrounding destinations, rather than a destination in and of itself.
Liberia
Due to excellent facilities and its close proximity to scores of attractions, Liberia is an ideal stopover for many visitors. With the recent opening of the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport, the once sleepy cowboy town of Liberia is undergoing comprehensive metamorphosis as it transitions from old colonial town to modern-day tourism hub.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is home to a namesake national park full of unspoilt beaches and world-class views. Enjoy adventures as diverse as snorkeling and jungle hikes. A great destination for families, there’s something for everyone whether you have young children or college-bound teens. See a variety of Costa Rica’s animals when you peek into tide pools and hike through forests; experience the subtle thrill of birding when you cross a variety of species off of your ‘seen’ list. The best part? This is just the beginning of all of the beauty, excitement, and adventure awaiting you in Manuel Antonio.
Puerto Jimenez
Puerto Jiménez might be the best town from which to access Corcovado National Park. Located on the eastern coast of the Osa Peninsula, on the Dulce Gulf, this small town has plenty of hotels and activities to offer as well as being favorably located. From Puerto Jiménez, you can explore just about everything there is to offer, even take a ferry across the gulf to the colorful city of Golfito. Exploring the history of this small unhurried city may give you the impression of the Wild Wild West.
Samara
The beautiful coastal hamlet of Samara is a paradise on the Nicoya Peninsula's western shore. Known as one of the prettiest and safest beaches in all of Costa Rica, Playa Samara radiates wonderful white sand in contrast to the aquamarine water. Tropical plant life and living coral encompass Samara's 3-mile (5 km) coastline, and the beach is a favorite among locals, foreigners, and wealthier Ticos- forming a quintessential beach community.
San Jose
"Chepe," as the city is referred to by locals, is the capital city of Costa Rica and a hub for modern Costa Rican culture. It's also where most visitors depart for tours of central Costa Rica's volcanoes and coffee plantations. Before you leave, take a fun-filled tour of the city's monuments and parks, and maybe sample the burgeoning craft beer scene.
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Alajuela & SJO Airport
Alajuela, nicknamed City of the Mangoes, is one of the most important cities in Costa Rica. It is the capital city of the providence bearing its name and is located just 11 miles northwest (17 km) of San Jose. Just outside of town is where you'll find the Juan Santamaria International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria), Costa Rica's principal airport.
Tamarindo
Once a quiet surf beach and fishing hamlet, Tamarindo is now a beach town with the infrastructure Western travelers have come to expect. Located on the Central West Coast of Guanacaste, Tamarindo still boasts unspoilt beaches and incredible biodiversity — despite the town’s recent and ongoing development. Come for fun in the sun and stay for the laid back vibe that is so characteristic of the region.
Tambor
The small fishing hamlet of Tambor sits not far from Curu National Wildlife Refuge. As a laid back, mixed-community of locals and foreign retirees, Tambor is nestled in an open volcanic valley, surrounded by forested hills. Its beach, Playa Tambor, is an exceptional location for swimming. The surf is calm, and the sea is a gleaming aquamarine. Golf, tennis, and other activities are available in and around the town of Tambor, making this a favorite destination for those seeking developed tourism facilities within a quiet town. Day trips to nearby Cabo Blanco Reserve or the Guayabo and Negritos Islands give visitors great opportunities to experience the Nicoya's remarkable wildlife.
Tortuguero
The Caribbean Coast is home to the beautiful town of Tortuguero and it's National Park. This sun drenched zone with its sparsely spaced coastal villages offers a completely laid back and relaxed atmosphere. The culture is vastly different on this coast compared to the rest of the country with its prominent Afro-Caribbean influence notable as well in the delicious cuisine found here.
