Flying to Costa Rica

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San Jose International Airport

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You'll fly into the main airport near the Costa Rican capital of San Jose: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO).

Here are typical flight times to the San Jose airport from various departure points:

• Miami: 2.5 hours
• Houston: 3.5 hours 
• New York City: 5 hours
• Los Angeles: 6 hours
• Chicago: 6 hours
• London: 11.5 hours

Transit times from San Jose airport to Quepos:

• 2.5-hour drive
• 3.5-hour bus ride
• 1-hour domestic flight

Quepos Marina

Domestic Flights

Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia, but ground transportation can take many hours on its rustic, winding, and mountainous roads. Depending on your travel route, domestic flights may be the most convenient and sensible option.

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Renting a Car

In general, rental cars are only a good option for adventure-minded travelers, who do not mind a few challenges along the way.

​Rental cars are generally not recommended for first time visitors to Costa Rica, because Costa Rica driving conditions can be intimidating and directional road signs are often missing.

​However, with a positive, resilient, and adventurous outlook, as well as a good road map/GPS, first time visitors can successfully navigate the country.

Buses

There is a very inexpensive public bus that travels between Quepos and Manuel Antonio daily, carrying passengers from the downtown area to and from the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park.

​The trip takes roughly 25 minutes and has several stops en route. Buses run from 5:45 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with some evening routes as well.

​Departures are on the hour and half hour, and cost about 65 cents each way.

Taxis

Reasonably priced and reliable, there are plenty of taxis on hand for visitors without a car. Official red taxis have a bright yellow placard on the side and are always equipped with a meter. 

Bikes & Mopeds

Many people rent bikes or mopeds. Both are inexpensive and fun options for getting around town. Bikes rent for around $15/day, and mopeds for $40/day.