Trade The Long Road
For The Short Hop
Domestic Air
Domestic air travel is the secret to seeing Costa Rica in 10 days rather than 3 weeks. These airlines operate smaller Cessna Grand Caravans, providing breathtaking views of volcanoes and coastlines.
SANSA – The National Leader
As the most established domestic airline, SANSA boasts the largest fleet and most frequent schedule. They operate out of their own private terminal at SJO, which means you avoid the main terminal chaos. If you are flying to more obscure locations like Golfito or Coto 47, SANSA is usually your only option.
Green Airways – Boutique & Sustainable
A family-owned airline that focuses on the “experience.” They offer a more premium feel with newer aircraft interiors and a commitment to carbon neutrality. While their route map is smaller (focused on Tambor, Quepos, and Nosara), they are famous for their VIP-style service and complimentary snacks at their SJO lounge.
La Fortuna
Arenal Strip
Quepos
Manuel Antonio
Tortuguero
Remote Jungles
Drake Bay
Corcovado
Domestic Airports Directory
A comprehensive list of domestic landing strips and regional hubs serving Costa Rica’s major tourist zones.
| Code | Airport & Region | Primary Destinations Served |
|---|---|---|
| SJO | Juan SantamarÃa Central Valley (Hub) | Primary international hub connecting all domestic points. |
| LIR | Guanacaste Airport Liberia (Hub) | Direct access to Northern Pacific beach destinations. |
| ACO | Cóbano Nicoya Peninsula | Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Mal PaÃs. |
| XQP | Quepos Central Pacific | Manuel Antonio National Park, Dominical. |
| DRK | Drake Bay Osa Peninsula | Remote Corcovado access, Isla del Caño. |
| PJM | Puerto Jiménez Osa Peninsula | Corcovado hiking gateway, Golfo Dulce. |
| TNO | Tamarindo Guanacaste | Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Langosta. |
| NOB | Nosara Guanacaste | Playa Guiones, yoga retreats, surf camps. |
| FON | La Fortuna Northern Highlands | Arenal Volcano, hot springs, Lake Arenal. |
| TTQ | Tortuguero Northern Caribbean | Tortuguero Village and National Park canals. |
| TMU | Tambor Nicoya Peninsula | Southern Nicoya, Curú Wildlife Refuge. |
| GLF | Golfito South Pacific | Duty-free zone, Pavones, southern surf breaks. |
| LIO | Limón Caribbean Coast | Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Caribbean beaches. |
Local Tips
Costa Rica has its own rules and regulations around transportation, public and private. Being aware of those nuances can ensure your journey is as smooth and delightful.
Weight Limits
Domestic flights are strict. Most allow only 25-30 lbs of checked luggage. They will weigh you and your bags to ensure aircraft balance.
Terminal Transfers
The SJO domestic terminal is a separate building. Allow a 3-hour layover to clear customs and walk/shuttle to the local terminal.
Domestic Flights
Short on time? SANSA or Costa Rica Green Airways offer 25-minute flights to the coast for ~$80-$150. This saves you 6+ hours of driving through the mountains.