One of the fastest and most scenic ways to explore the country is by using domestic airlines. Costa Rica may be a small country, but its rugged terrain, mountain ranges, rain forests, and winding roads can make travel time longer than expected. Flying within Costa Rica allows travelers to maximize vacation time while enjoying breathtaking aerial views of volcanoes, coastlines, and tropical forests.
Why Choose Domestic Flights in Costa Rica?
Domestic air travel in Costa Rica is popular with both tourists and locals because it offers:
- Significant time savings compared to driving
- Easy access to remote beach destinations
- Spectacular aerial views of jungles, rivers, and volcanoes
- Convenient connections between major tourist regions
A flight that might take 30–60 minutes can replace a 5–7 hour drive on mountain roads.
Main Domestic Airlines in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a few well-established domestic airlines that operate small, reliable aircraft designed for short distances.
1. Sansa Airlines
Sansa is the largest domestic airline in Costa Rica and operates frequent daily flights.
Popular routes include:
- San José ↔ Quepos / Manuel Antonio
- San José ↔ Tamarindo
- San José ↔ Nosara
- San José ↔ Puerto Jiménez (Osa Peninsula)
- San José ↔ La Fortuna / Arenal
Sansa uses small propeller aircraft with assigned seating and professional service.
2. Costa Rica Green Airways
This airline offers both domestic flights and charter services, often serving:
- Bocas del Toro (Panama)
- Puerto Jiménez
- Quepos
- Golfito
It’s a good option for travelers visiting more remote regions or booking private charters.
3. Charter & Private Flights
Private charter flights are available throughout Costa Rica and are ideal for:
- Families or groups
- Luxury travelers
- Tight itineraries
- Access to hard-to-reach destinations
Charters offer flexibility, privacy, and personalized scheduling.
Domestic Airports in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has two main international airports and many smaller domestic airstrips.
Main Departure Airports
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) – San José
- Tobías Bolaños Airport (SYQ) – San José (domestic flights only)
Most domestic flights depart from Tobías Bolaños Airport, located about 20 minutes from downtown San José.
Popular Domestic Destinations
- Tamarindo
- Nosara
- Quepos / Manuel Antonio
- La Fortuna (Arenal)
- Puerto Jiménez
- Golfito
- Drake Bay
- Tortuguero
What to Expect on a Domestic Flight
Flying domestically in Costa Rica is a unique experience:
- Small aircraft (9–20 passengers)
- Open seating on some flights
- Short flight times
- Limited baggage allowances
- Incredible views from every seat
Flights often fly low, offering panoramic views of rain forests, rivers, beaches, and volcanoes.
Baggage Allowances & Travel Tips
Because domestic aircraft are small, baggage restrictions are strict.
Typical Allowance
- 1 carry-on (10–20 lbs, depending on airline)
- Additional baggage may incur extra fees
Helpful Tips
- Pack light and use soft-sided luggage
- Wear heavier shoes during travel
- Arrive early for baggage weighing
- Confirm baggage rules when booking
Weather & Flight Considerations
Costa Rica’s weather can impact flight schedules, especially during the green (rainy) season from May to November.
- Morning flights are generally more reliable
- Afternoon storms may cause delays
- Flights may be rescheduled for safety
Despite this, domestic airlines maintain excellent safety standards and prioritize passenger security.
Is Flying Better Than Driving in Costa Rica?
Domestic flights are ideal if:
- You have limited vacation time
- You’re traveling long distances (e.g., Osa Peninsula or Guanacaste)
- You want to avoid long, winding mountain roads
Driving may still be preferable for:
- Short distances
- Flexible sightseeing
- Budget travelers
Many visitors combine flying one way and driving the other.
Booking Domestic Flights in Costa Rica
Domestic flights can be booked:
- Online through airline websites
- Through Costa Rica vacation planners
- As part of a complete travel package
Booking early is recommended during peak season (December–April).
Final Thoughts
Using domestic airlines is one of the smartest ways to get around Costa Rica. It saves time, offers unforgettable scenery, and makes it easy to reach remote beaches, rainforests, and national parks. Whether you’re heading to Arenal Volcano, the Nicoya Peninsula, or the Osa Peninsula, flying domestically helps you spend less time traveling and more time enjoying Costa Rica’s natural beauty.