Find Cheap Flights to Costa Rica and Book Your Trip with Ease

This is the high season, with guaranteed sun and higher flight and accommodation prices. Book your flights in advance to secure the best prices.

These months offer a good balance: fewer crowds, lower prices, and still plenty of sun, with short, refreshing afternoon showers.

The rainy season brings lower prices and incredibly green nature. Rains typically occur in the afternoon, leaving mornings dry for activities.

Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week are peak periods, with very high prices and high demand. Book 6 to 9 months in advance for better prices.

Portuguese citizens traveling to Costa Rica for tourism do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, it is mandatory to have a passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry and a return or onward ticket. Immigration authorities may request proof of sufficient funds for your stay, although this is rare. Always check the latest requirements with the Costa Rican embassy in Lisbon before purchasing your flights to Costa Rica. It is good practice to keep digital copies of your important documents securely stored. Make sure your passport has blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Meeting these basic requirements helps avoid issues at the border and ensures your trip from Portugal to Costa Rica starts stress-free. Remember that rules can change, so official confirmation is always the best option.

Transportation in Costa Rica is varied. For long distances, public buses are economical and extensive, but can be slow. Tourist buses are faster and more comfortable, connecting major destinations. Renting a car offers the most freedom, especially if you plan to visit remote areas, but roads can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season. A 4x4 is recommended for many rural areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are common in cities like San José. Consider domestic flights to save time between distant regions. When looking for cheap flights to Costa Rica, local transportation is an extra cost to consider in your travel budget. If renting a car, remember that local drivers are sometimes unpredictable and the roads have many curves. Driving at night is discouraged outside major cities. Plan your routes in advance and use reliable GPS or map applications. Boat transport is common to access certain beaches and national parks, such as Tortuguero. Water taxi service is also available in some coastal areas, offering a scenic and quick alternative.

Costa Rica offers a wide range of accommodations, from basic "cabinas" and budget hostels to luxurious eco-lodges and beach resorts. In cities and towns, you will find chain hotels and boutiques. For a more immersive experience, look for "casas rurales" or "fazendas" that offer farm stays. High season (December to April) requires advance reservations, especially if you are looking for flights to Costa Rica during peak season. Prices vary greatly depending on location and time of year. Coastal areas and national parks tend to be more expensive. Consider staying in family-run "pousadas" for a personal touch and to support local communities. When booking, check if the accommodation has air conditioning or fans, as the climate can be very hot and humid. Many eco-lodges focus on sustainability, offering a unique experience. Look for accommodation near public transport if you are not renting a car. Online booking platforms are popular, but sometimes booking directly can secure a better price.

Costa Rica is generally safe, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and car break-ins, is common in tourist areas and San José. Never leave valuables unattended, especially on beaches and in rental cars. Use hotel safes. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs, and only use machines inside banks or shopping centers. Do not flaunt expensive jewelry or electronic equipment. In an emergency, the number is 911. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish will be very helpful. Locals, known as "ticos," are very friendly and helpful. Stay calm and be respectful. If you rent a car, never leave anything visible inside, even for a short period. Be aware of "pirate taxis" and only use official taxis or recognized transport services. Personal safety is your priority when looking for flight deals to Costa Rica.

The "tico" culture is marked by the expression "Pura Vida," which means "pure life" and is used as a greeting, farewell, and life philosophy. They are a relaxed, warm, and hospitable people. Punctuality is more flexible than in Portugal, so be patient. Dress casually and comfortably, but avoid swimwear outside the beach and pool. Showing respect for elders is important. When interacting, always use "usted" (the formal address) unless they offer you the use of "vos" or "tú" (informal). Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in tourist services. Environmental protection is taken seriously, so be a responsible traveler, respecting wildlife and not leaving trash. "Ticos" value family and community. Sharing a meal is an important social act. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress more modestly. Adopting the "Pura Vida" attitude will help you enjoy your stay after securing cheap flights to Costa Rica.

Costa Rican food is flavorful but generally not spicy. The national dish is "Gallo Pinto" (rice and beans mixed, served for breakfast) and "Casado" (rice, beans, meat or fish, salad, and fried plantain, served for lunch). Try the "sodas" (small local restaurants) for authentic and economical meals. Fresh fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple are abundant and delicious. Costa Rican coffee is world-class; be sure to try it. Look for fresh "ceviche" in coastal areas. Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas, but in rural areas, it is better to drink bottled water. Fresh fruit "batidos" (smoothies) with water or milk are refreshing. The local cuisine reflects the simplicity and freshness of ingredients, offering a genuine gastronomic experience after your flight from Portugal to Costa Rica. Don't forget to try "chifrijo," a popular snack of pork and beans.

Costa Rica is small, but transportation is slow. Do not try to see everything in one week. Focus on two or three regions to fully enjoy it. One week can be dedicated to the Central Pacific region (beaches and Manuel Antonio) and the volcanoes (Arenal). Two weeks allow you to add the Caribbean coast or the Osa Peninsula. Consider your interests: adventure (ziplining, rafting), wildlife (national parks), or relaxation (beaches). The climate varies greatly; the Caribbean coast has its best weather when the Pacific is in the rainy season. Check the weather conditions for your dates when looking for cheap airfare to Costa Rica. National parks require advance reservations. For a 10-day trip, we suggest San José (arrival), Arenal (volcanoes and hot springs), and Manuel Antonio (beaches and wildlife). This itinerary offers a good mix of landscapes and activities. Don't forget to include time for "Pura Vida" and relaxation. The key is not to rush the experience.

Due to the tropical climate, pack light and quick-drying clothes. Even in the dry season, it can rain, so a good light rain jacket or poncho is essential. Comfortable and water-resistant hiking shoes are crucial, especially for walks in national parks. Bring insect repellent (very important!), high-factor sunscreen, and a hat. A flashlight is useful, as electricity can fail in more remote areas. Bring plug adapters (type A and B, the same as the USA). For clothing, think in layers, as temperatures can vary between the hot lowlands and the cooler highlands. Don't forget binoculars for observing wildlife, which is abundant. If you are visiting the rainforest, neutral-colored clothing helps avoid attracting insects. Remember that promotional airfare to Costa Rica may have baggage restrictions; travel light and practically.