Flights to Costa Rica

Splitting the cost of your flight to Costa Rica with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) can make your trip more manageable financially. Unlike paying upfront, BNPL allows you to split the cost of your flight tickets into smaller, more budget-friendly instalments.

Many plans offer interest-free payments within a specific timeframe - this can ease budgeting and potentially save your money compared to traditional financing options! Enjoy a stress-free travel experience to Costa Rica with over 40 ways to pay. We work with payment providers such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay and PayPal.

Strap on your hiking boots or your swimsuit (or maybe both!), because Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure seekers and beach dwellers alike. Want to rappel down a waterfall or raft through churning rapids? They've got you covered. Prefer to lounge on white sand beaches with a fruity drink in hand? No problem there either.

This tiny Central American country packs a serious punch when it comes to natural beauty. Volcanoes loom over rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife, and the coastline is fringed with palm trees swaying in the tropical breeze.

If you're a nature enthusiast, you'll be spoilt for choice spotting playful monkeys swinging through the trees, watching colourful birds flit between flowers, or even spying a majestic sloth hanging out high in the canopy. Costa Rica is also a champion for eco-tourism, so you can feel good about leaving a minimal footprint while you explore. They've got a ton of cool sustainable lodges and activities, so you can experience the wonders of the country without harming it.

Basically, if you're looking for an action-packed escape or a chance to relax and reconnect with nature, Costa Rica is the place to be! So why not book your flights to Costa Rica today with us at Alternative Airlines? We've got 600+ global airlines to choose from and 40+ convenient ways to pay - what's not to love? Check out where to fly to in Costa Rica below for some inspiration!

San José might not be your typical beach vacation spot, but it's Costa Rica's heart pumping with energy. Think of it as your launchpad for exploring the country's amazing rainforests and volcanoes, or a quick stop to soak up some culture before hitting the surf.

The city itself is a fun jumble of historic buildings, like the grand National Theatre, and trendy neighbourhoods like Barrio Escalante, packed with quirky cafes and buzzing with locals. Want to brush up on your Spanish or learn about Costa Rica's cool jade jewellery? San José has museums for that (and more!). At the end of a day of exploring, you can refuel with a steaming cup of Costa Rican coffee and some traditional fare – think rice and beans with a twist.

San José is all about convenience. It's a great spot to arrange day trips or tours to the surrounding volcanoes and rainforests. Plus, it has a good airport with connections all over Central America, making it a convenient base for your Costa Rican adventure.

If you are searching for affordable flights to Costa Rica, then Alternative Airlines is the place to be! We offer a variety of methods to make your money go further when you travel:

Payment plans

We are proud to partner with some payment providers which allow you to split the cost of your flights into more manageable payments. Whether you are flying economy on an ultra-low-cost carrier or first class with a premium airline, you can find a plan that suits your needs.

Flying with affordable airlines

Looking to snag a bargain for your favourite destination? The best place to start looking is to identify low-cost airlines that can get you there on the cheap. They will charge extra for baggage and other bonuses you would get for free with a full carrier, but if you are fine with travelling light and basic, you'll save yourself a lot of money.

Cheapest day to fly

Knowing when to fly can also contribute to cheaper tickets. We have written a guide for you to be able to identify the right time for you, backed up by real data and expert sources. Read our blog for the trade secrets on the cheapest days to buy flights to find out more.

Best fare finder

Still bargain hunting? We've cooked up a secret weapon. Our best fare-finder tool allows you to easily and quickly compare all of the flight prices on the week surrounding your original search and find the most affordable flight.

• Plan for travel times and logistics: Despite its small size, traveling between destinations in Costa Rica can take much longer than anticipated due to winding, mountainous roads and potential for traffic. A two-hour drive on a map can easily become a four-hour journey.
  
  It's often best to pick a few destinations and make a home base rather than trying to see the entire country in a short trip. Consider a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to explore remote areas or travel during the rainy season, as many roads are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate.
• Pack for microclimates and diverse weather: Costa Rica has diverse microclimates, so what you pack for one region may not work for another. While coastal areas are hot and humid, high-altitude places like Monteverde can be cool and misty. Pack a light, quick-drying rain jacket and clothes for layering, as a sunny morning can quickly turn into a rainy afternoon.
  
  Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are essential for exploring national parks and trails, while a good pair of waterproof sandals is great for beach towns.
• Prioritise health and safety: While generally a safe country, it's wise to take precautions against petty crime, which is common in tourist areas. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in your car, and use a money belt to keep your cash and important documents secure. It's also important to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
  
  Use high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen and a strong insect repellent, especially in jungle areas where mosquitoes carrying diseases like dengue fever are present.
• Embrace the Unhurried Pace of "Pura Vida": The national motto of Costa Rica is "Pura Vida," which translates to "pure life." It's more than just a saying; it's a way of life that embodies a relaxed, positive attitude. Embrace it by taking your time, enjoying the natural beauty, and connecting with the friendly locals.
  
  While U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, having local currency (the colón) is useful for small purchases, paying for taxis, or visiting less-touristy towns, and can sometimes get you a better price.