Flights to Costa Rica

How to find cheap flights to Costa Rica

Whether you’re searching for a one-way or return ticket to Costa Rica, we've got you covered. We’ve compared prices from over 500 airlines and online travel agents to bring you the most affordable flight tickets to Costa Rica. With us, there are no hidden fees – ever.

The best time to go to Costa Rica

The high season in Costa Rica is from January to April when you can enjoy nice weather all over the country, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C. These months are ideal for exploring beautiful landscapes and enjoying outdoor activities.

If you don't mind the possibility of unpredictable weather, travelling to Costa Rica during May and December can still be a delightful experience with relatively fewer crowds than during the high season.

It is advisable to avoid visiting Costa Rica during August, September, and October, as these are typically the months with the most challenging weather conditions and heavier rainfall.

Top tip: If you're flexible with your travel dates, use our whole-month tool to find the cheapest day of the year to travel to any city in Costa Rica.

The best time to book flights to Costa Rica

The cheapest time to book flights is usually 40 to 75 days before you fly. So start looking for those tickets to Costa Rica in advance.

You can also use our Price Alert feature to monitor flight fares to Costa Rica. We'll let you know when flight prices go up or down so you can book when the time is just right.

Airlines that fly to Costa Rica

The most popular routes between the United Kingdom and Costa Rica are:

From London Heathrow Airport to San Jose (Juan Santamaria International Airport) with Lufthansa and United Airlines.

From London Gatwick Airport to San Jose (Juan Santamaria International Airport) with British Airways.

From London Heathrow Airport to San Jose (Juan Santamaria International Airport) with United Airlines.

Top things to see and do in Costa Rica

Enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like surfing, rafting, and biking, or take in the wonders of its volcanoes and well-preserved nature reserves. You'll be captivated by the birdwatching opportunities and never want to leave the pristine beaches. Don't miss the well-renowned festivals of Costa Rica, such as the Semana Santa, a week filled with religious processions and celebrations, and Fiestas Palmares, a cultural amalgamation of parades, live music, food, and rodeos.

Best cities to visit in Costa Rica

San José

San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, often serving as a gateway to explore this beautiful country. It offers a mix of urban culture and traditional architecture, with numerous museums, parks, and markets showcasing local handicrafts. Be sure to explore the historic Barrio Amón neighbourhood for fascinating architecture and art.

La Fortuna

Home to the famous Arenal Volcano and numerous natural hot springs, La Fortuna is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and eco-travellers. Head out for a hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park or try your hand at zip-lining, white-water rafting or go bird spotting in the lush surroundings.

Monteverde

Monteverde is located in the lush cloud forests of Costa Rica and is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and ecotourism activities. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers the chance to wander through enchanting green landscapes filled with wildlife. At the same time, the nearby Santa Elena Reserve provides thrilling adventure activities like zip-lining and hanging bridge walks.

Tamarindo

This beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula is famous for its surfing, beautiful beaches, and nightlife. Tamarindo is perfect for those seeking a balance between relaxation and adventure, as the shorelines offer opportunities for watersports, wildlife watching, and spectacular sunsets to unwind at the end of the day.