Find and Book Cheap Flights to Costa Rica for Your Next Adventure

This is the peak dry season. Expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and higher demand for flights and accommodation across the country.

Late spring marks the transition to the green season. You can find better deals on flights while still enjoying mostly sunny mornings.

The green season brings afternoon showers but also the lowest flight prices and incredibly lush, vibrant rainforest scenery for travelers.

While the Pacific side is wet, the Caribbean coast experiences its best weather, offering a unique opportunity for off-peak travel deals.

Brazilian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in Costa Rica. However, you must present a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. A critical requirement for travelers from Brazil is the International Certificate of Vaccination against Yellow Fever. You must receive the vaccine at least ten days before your departure. Immigration officers will check this document before allowing entry. Additionally, you should have proof of a return or onward ticket to demonstrate your intent to leave the country. While travel insurance is no longer a mandatory entry requirement, it is highly recommended to cover potential medical costs or adventure sports accidents. Ensure your documents are organized and easily accessible upon arrival at Juan Santamaria International Airport or Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport to facilitate a quick entry process.

Navigating Costa Rica is best done by renting a 4x4 vehicle, especially if you plan to visit remote areas like Monteverde or the Osa Peninsula where roads can be unpaved and steep. For those on a budget, the public bus system is extensive and links San Jose to most major tourist hubs like Manuel Antonio and La Fortuna at very low costs. Domestic flights are available via local carriers for quick hops across the country, saving hours of driving. Within cities, official red taxis are reliable, but always ensure the meter, known as the maria, is running. Ride-sharing apps also operate in the San Jose metropolitan area. If you are traveling between popular destinations, shared shuttle services offer a comfortable middle ground between public buses and private rentals, providing door-to-door service which is particularly convenient for first-time visitors.

Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but petty theft like bag snatching and car break-ins can occur in crowded tourist areas and beaches. Never leave valuables inside a parked car, even for a short time. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help with luggage or flat tires, as this can sometimes be a distraction for theft. When using ATMs, stick to those located inside banks or well-lit shopping centers. In coastal areas, be aware of strong rip currents; always swim where there are lifeguards or ask locals about water safety. Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches or unlit city streets at night. To explore like a local, visit the feria or weekly farmers market to buy fresh tropical fruits and interact with residents. For a perfect photo, head to the hanging bridges in the cloud forest for a misty, ethereal backdrop.

Costa Rican food is flavorful but rarely spicy, making it quite different from some other Latin American cuisines. The staple dish is Gallo Pinto, a mix of rice and beans typically served for breakfast with eggs and sour cream. For lunch, look for a Casado, a hearty plate featuring meat, rice, beans, salad, and fried plantains. Dining at a soda, which is a small, family-run local restaurant, is the best way to enjoy authentic meals at affordable prices. Tipping is handled differently than in Brazil; a 10% service charge is usually included in the bill, though adding a small extra amount for exceptional service is appreciated. Water is generally safe to drink from the tap in most parts of the country, which is a great way to stay hydrated. For a unique experience, try a Churchill in Puntarenas, a decadent shaved ice treat that is a local favorite.