Find answers to the most common questions about Aerocaribe’s private charter flights, destinations, aircraft, safety standards, sustainability initiatives, and luxury travel experiences in Costa Rica. Whether you’re planning your first private flight or a return adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know.
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- ABOUT AEROCARIBE
- BOOKING & PRICING
- DESTINATIONS IN COSTA RICA
- FLEET & AIRCRAFT
- LUXURY TRAVEL & TOURIST TIPS
- PEAK SEASON & PLANNING TIPS
- PRICES & ROUTES
- PRIVATE CHARTER VS. COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS
- SAFETY & CERTIFICATIONS
- SAFETY: PROTOCOLS & MAINTENANCE
- SERVICES & FLIGHTS
- SPECIFIC DESTINATIONS DEEP DIVE
- SUSTAINABILITY & CARBON NEUTRALITY
Absolutely. If you are arriving at or departing from Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia (LIR) — the main gateway to Guanacaste — Aerocaribe can connect you to any destination across Costa Rica. Liberia is an excellent hub for onward private flights to Nosara, Tamarindo, Sámara, the Osa Peninsula, or San José. Many North American visitors fly commercially into Liberia and then charter with Aerocaribe for their domestic connections, making for a seamless door-to-resort experience.
A private charter flight with Aerocaribe is by far the fastest option. Santa Teresa is served by Tambor Airport (TMU) on the Nicoya Peninsula, approximately 45–55 minutes by air from San José. The overland alternative — ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya plus a long drive on rough roads — takes 4–5 hours minimum. Santa Teresa has emerged as one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after luxury surf destinations, attracting high-profile visitors with its combination of perfect left and right surf breaks, boutique hotels, vegan-friendly restaurants, and a laid-back international vibe.
Puerto Jiménez is the gateway to Corcovado National Park and the Osa Peninsula — Costa Rica’s wildest and most remote region. Corcovado is home to all four of Costa Rica’s monkey species, giant anteaters, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and one of the last remaining old-growth lowland rainforests in Central America. Access by land requires long drives on unpaved roads, river crossings, and boat transfers. A private charter from San José lands you in Puerto Jiménez in approximately 55–65 minutes. From there, guided tours into Corcovado, sea kayaking, and sport fishing are all within easy reach.
Yes. Nosara Airport (NOB) on the Nicoya Peninsula can be reached by private charter from San José (approx. 45–50 min), Liberia (approx. 20–25 min), or any other departure point in Costa Rica where Aerocaribe operates. Nosara is home to Playa Guiones, one of the most consistent surf breaks in the country, as well as world-renowned yoga retreats, luxury boutique hotels, organic restaurants, and a strong wellness community. It’s a favorite among health-conscious North American travelers and digital nomads seeking a luxury base in the tropics.
Drake Bay sits on the remote Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth and home to Corcovado National Park — described by National Geographic as the most biologically intense place on the planet. A private charter from San José to Drake Bay takes approximately 50–60 minutes. By land and boat, the same journey takes 6–8 hours. Drake Bay has a small airstrip that accommodates light aircraft. Aerocaribe can fly you directly, giving you more time for guided rainforest hikes, dolphin watching, snorkeling in pristine waters, and whale watching (humpback whales visit the Osa Peninsula twice a year, July–November and December–April).
Tortuguero is one of the only destinations in Costa Rica with no road access — the only ways in are by boat or by plane. A private charter flight with Aerocaribe from San José takes approximately 30–40 minutes, landing at Tortuguero’s small airstrip near the village. Compare that to the traditional overland-and-boat route, which takes 4–6 hours each way. The flight also gives you stunning aerial views of the Caribbean canals, river deltas, and rainforest canopy. Tortuguero is famous for its green sea turtle nesting beaches (July–October), caimans, river otters, and extraordinary bird life. A private flight makes this magical destination accessible without an exhausting journey.
December through April offers the most reliable weather for Pacific coast destinations and the most predictable conditions for flying. If you are planning a beach vacation, a surf trip, or a luxury resort stay in Guanacaste, Nosara, or Manuel Antonio, the dry season delivers the clearest skies and calmest seas. That said, many luxury travelers prefer the green season for its dramatic landscapes, waterfall-fed rivers, and intimate atmosphere at resorts. Aerocaribe can help you plan the perfect trip regardless of season — just reach out for a consultation.
Yes. Aerocaribe operates during the rainy (green) season, which runs from May to November. Costa Rica’s tropical weather is highly localized — it may be raining in San José while Guanacaste has clear skies. Our pilots are trained for these conditions and conduct thorough weather analysis before every flight. In some cases, flights may be rescheduled for safety due to severe weather, but our team will always communicate proactively and offer the earliest safe alternative departure. The green season is actually a beautiful time to visit Costa Rica — waterfalls are at their peak, wildlife is abundant, and crowds are thinner.
For standard bookings, we recommend 48–72 hours in advance to ensure your preferred aircraft and time slot are available. During peak season (December–April) and major holidays, we strongly recommend booking 1–2 weeks ahead. For last-minute requests, contact us directly by phone or WhatsApp and our team will do everything possible to accommodate you. For Air Ambulance or Medevac emergencies, contact us immediately — we respond around the clock.
Aerocaribe operates year-round, but timing matters for your overall experience. The dry season (December through April) is peak tourist season on the Pacific coast — expect the best beach weather in Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Manuel Antonio, but also higher hotel rates and more air traffic. The green season (May through November) brings lush landscapes, lower hotel prices, and spectacular wildlife activity — especially in Tortuguero (sea turtle nesting, July–October) and the Osa Peninsula. We recommend booking charter flights at least 3–5 days in advance year-round, and 1–2 weeks ahead during peak holidays (Christmas, New Year, Easter).
All private charter operations in Costa Rica are regulated by the Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC), Costa Rica’s civil aviation authority, which enforces standards aligned with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) guidelines. Aerocaribe is fully licensed and certified under DGAC regulations. Every non-scheduled (charter) flight requires advance authorization with route, aircraft, and passenger information submitted to aviation authorities. Our operations team handles all regulatory filings on your behalf.
Absolutely. Flying in Costa Rica requires specialized knowledge that goes far beyond standard commercial aviation. Our pilots are deeply familiar with the country’s microclimates, coastal wind patterns, mountain passes, tropical storm behavior, and the unique characteristics of each airstrip — from the long runways of Liberia and San José to the short grass strips of Drake Bay or Barra del Colorado. All Aerocaribe pilots are certified commercial aviators who fly these routes regularly, accumulating thousands of hours of local flight experience.
Yes. Aerocaribe operates its own Certified Aircraft Maintenance Center at Tobías Bolaños Airport. Our team of aviation maintenance professionals conducts thorough inspections before and after every flight, ensuring that each aircraft in our fleet is always in optimal airworthy condition. This in-house capability is a key differentiator — we do not rely on third-party maintenance for our core fleet, which gives us tighter quality control and faster turnaround.
Before every flight, Aerocaribe follows a rigorous pre-flight safety routine: weather analysis at origin, destination, and along the route; aircraft airworthiness inspection by our certified maintenance team; pilot briefing including route review, fuel load, and contingency planning; passenger weight and baggage verification; and final operational clearance. Our safety culture is embedded at every level of the company — from our Safety Director (an Electronic Engineer and Commercial Pilot) to each line pilot who flies Costa Rica’s routes daily.
Aerocaribe serves a different market than scheduled commercial airlines. We offer fully private, on-demand charter flights — meaning the aircraft is exclusively yours. We also serve destinations and airstrips that Sansa or Costa Rica Green Airways does not cover, operate on your schedule rather than a fixed timetable, and provide a luxury experience from boarding to landing. For travelers who value time, privacy, and flexibility, there is no real competition — the two services are simply different products.
Per seat, commercial domestic flights are cheaper. However, when you compare total value — especially for groups — the gap narrows significantly. A commercial flight from San José to Quepos for 4 passengers might cost $60–$100 per person each way, totaling $240–$400. A private charter for the same group starts around $700 and gives you: your own aircraft, flexible departure time, direct routing, no lines, and departure from any airport. For business travelers and luxury tourists, the time savings and comfort alone justify the difference. For families or groups of 5+, the per-person cost of a charter becomes very competitive.
Commercial domestic flights in Costa Rica (operated by airlines like Sansa) follow fixed schedules, fly shared cabins, and serve only major airstrips. Private charter flights with Aerocaribe offer: your own exclusive aircraft with no strangers, departure on your schedule from the airport of your choice, access to over 30 airports and airstrips including remote destinations that commercial airlines don’t serve, no check-in lines or shared terminals, flexible baggage handling, and pet-friendly travel. The experience is fundamentally different — it’s private air transport, not a smaller version of commercial aviation.
The main factors that determine your charter flight price are: the aircraft type and size (Cessna 206 vs. Piper Seneca vs. Cessna Caravan vs. Helicopter), the distance and route flown, the departure and arrival airports, whether it is a one-way or round trip, the number of passengers, time of year (peak season December–April can see higher demand), and any special requirements such as cargo, oversized luggage, or pets. Aerocaribe provides fully transparent, all-inclusive quotes — no hidden fees. Request yours at aerocaribecr.com.
Yes, departure airport can affect pricing since it determines the total distance flown. Aerocaribe operates from all major and regional airports across Costa Rica — including Tobías Bolaños (Pavas), Juan Santamaría (SJO), Daniel Oduber (Liberia/LIR), and regional airstrips. If you are already in Liberia or Guanacaste, for example, a flight to Nosara or Tamarindo will be significantly shorter and less expensive than from San José. Our team will always identify the most efficient and cost-effective routing for your specific trip.
For most travelers, absolutely. Consider this: a private charter flight from San José to Nosara costs approximately $1,200 USD for up to 5 passengers — that’s $240 per person. The flight takes about 45 minutes. The alternative is a 5–6 hour drive on winding mountain roads, or a commercial domestic flight with fixed schedules and shared terminals. When you factor in the time saved (an entire day for a group of 4–5), the flexibility, the absence of baggage hassle, the comfort, and the ability to depart from any airport that suits you, the value becomes very compelling — especially on a luxury vacation or a business trip.
Helicopter flights are priced based on duration, route, and helicopter type. As a market reference, short scenic tours of 30 minutes typically start around $1,000–$1,600 USD for the full helicopter (regardless of passenger count). Longer routes such as a transfer to Arenal Volcano or a coastal tour of 1.5–2.5 hours range from $2,500 to $4,000 USD for the aircraft. For point-to-point transfers to remote eco-lodges, helipads near marinas, or destinations without airstrips (such as certain areas of Monteverde), a helicopter is often the only aerial option. Pricing depends on your specific origin, destination, and chosen aircraft. Contact Aerocaribe for a helicopter flight quote tailored to your itinerary.
Private charter flight prices in Costa Rica vary by route, aircraft, and group size. Based on current market rates, here are approximate starting prices for popular routes from San José (one way, full aircraft): San José → Quepos / Manuel Antonio: from $700 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → La Fortuna / Arenal: from $700 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Nosara: from $1,200 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Tamarindo: from $1,200 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Drake Bay / Osa Peninsula: from $1,400 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Tortuguero: from $900 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Puerto Jiménez: from $1,400 USD (up to 5 passengers); San José → Santa Teresa / Cóbano: from $950 USD (up to 5 passengers). For larger groups using the Cessna Caravan (up to 12 passengers), rates are higher but the per-person cost often makes it highly competitive. Round-trip bookings and multi-destination itineraries are available. Contact Aerocaribe for a personalized quote: sales@aerocaribecr.com.
Costa Rica’s road network, while improving, includes many narrow, unpaved, and mountainous routes that can turn a 100-mile trip into a 5–6 hour drive. A private charter flight with Aerocaribe covers the same distance in 30–60 minutes — in air-conditioned comfort, with luggage, and on your schedule. Our fleet operates from and to all airports across Costa Rica, so no matter where your trip begins, we can pick you up and set you down exactly where you need to be. For time-conscious travelers, executives, and luxury tourists, the value is undeniable.
The dry season (December to April) is ideal for beach destinations on the Pacific coast (Manuel Antonio, Nosara, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa). The green season (May to November) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and excellent conditions for wildlife viewing — Tortuguero’s turtle nesting season peaks from July to October. Aerocaribe operates year-round, and our experienced pilots are trained to navigate Costa Rica’s varied weather conditions safely.
Costa Rica is one of the world’s top family destinations, offering zip-lining, wildlife tours, beach days, hot springs, and chocolate making — all in a safe and family-friendly environment. Aerocaribe’s pet-friendly, flexible charter flights make family travel even easier. Our Cessna Caravan accommodates up to 12 passengers, perfect for larger families or multi-family group trips.
For the ultimate luxury Costa Rica experience, we recommend flying between destinations with Aerocaribe instead of driving. Combine world-class hotels like Nayara Springs (La Fortuna), The Tico House (Nosara), or Kura Design Villas (Manuel Antonio) with private charter flights between regions. Add an Arenal Volcano aerial tour, sunrise surf sessions in Tamarindo, and a guided wildlife hike in Corcovado. Let Aerocaribe handle the sky — and let Costa Rica do the rest.
Yes. We offer both one-way and round-trip charter flights to all destinations. A round-trip booking can be a cost-effective option and ensures a guaranteed return flight on your chosen schedule. Simply select ‘Round Trip’ when requesting your quote on our website.
Aerocaribe strives to accommodate last-minute requests based on aircraft and pilot availability. For the best availability and pricing, we recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance. For urgent medical flights or emergency evacuations, contact us immediately and we will do our utmost to respond as quickly as possible.
Charter flight pricing is based on the aircraft selected, number of passengers, destination, and whether it is a one-way or round-trip flight. Because you are booking the entire aircraft, the per-person cost decreases as your group size increases. We encourage groups and families to compare our rates against commercial domestic flights — you may be surprised how competitive private charter can be, especially with 4–12 travelers.
Booking with Aerocaribe is simple. You can request a quote directly through our website at aerocaribecr.com, email us at sales@aerocaribecr.com, or call us at +506 2231-0608 or +506 6030-3270. Our team will respond promptly with a tailored quote and itinerary. Just let us know your preferred departure airport — whether it’s in San José, Liberia, or anywhere else in Costa Rica — and we will coordinate everything from there.
La Fortuna is home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, zip-lining, white-water rafting, hanging bridges through the cloud forest, and some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful eco-lodges and luxury resorts. Aerocaribe’s aerial tours of Arenal offer a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the volcano and surrounding lake. The flight from San José takes approximately 30–40 minutes.
Absolutely. Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s premier wellness and surf destinations, offering world-class yoga retreats, boutique luxury hotels, pristine beaches (Playa Guiones is a Blue Flag-certified beach), and high-end restaurants. Aerocaribe can fly you from San José to Nosara in about 45–50 minutes, avoiding the 5+ hour drive through Guanacaste. It’s an ideal escape for health-conscious luxury travelers.
Yes. Drake Bay is one of the most remote and pristine destinations in Costa Rica, located on the Osa Peninsula near Corcovado National Park. Aerocaribe can fly you directly to the Drake Bay airstrip in approximately 45–55 minutes from San José. This is far more comfortable than the 6–8 hour overland and boat journey most travelers endure.
Tortuguero is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic but inaccessible destinations — there are no roads in. A private charter flight with Aerocaribe is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach this magical wildlife corridor on the Caribbean coast. The flight from San José takes approximately 30–40 minutes, replacing what would otherwise be a multi-hour boat-and-bus combination.
A private charter flight from Tobías Bolaños Airport in San José to Quepos takes approximately 25–35 minutes. By car, the same trip takes 3–4 hours. Flying with Aerocaribe saves you an entire half day of travel, giving you more time to enjoy Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific beaches and world-class Manuel Antonio National Park.
Aerocaribe serves all of Costa Rica’s major and remote destinations, including: Manuel Antonio / Quepos (Pacific beaches and national park), Nosara (surf paradise and wellness retreat), Tamarindo (world-famous surf and nightlife), La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano (adventure and hot springs), Tortuguero (wildlife and Caribbean canals), Limón (Caribbean coast), Bahía Drake (remote rainforest and whale watching), Santa Teresa (surf, yoga, and luxury), and Puerto Jiménez (gateway to Corcovado National Park). Most destinations are reachable in under one hour.
We meticulously calculate the carbon footprint of each flight and invest in certified projects to neutralize those emissions. Our investments include reforestation projects (which also protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity), renewable energy development, and energy efficiency programs. These projects not only reduce emissions but support sustainable development in local Costa Rican communities.
The A-CO2 Anaconda Carbon Program is an environmental certification initiative in which Aerocaribe participates to offset greenhouse gas emissions generated by our flights. For every qualifying project we invest in — including reforestation, renewable energy, and energy efficiency — we receive a carbon offset certificate. This program demonstrates our commitment to fighting climate change while providing world-class air travel.
Yes. Aerocaribe is committed to sustainable aviation. We are an active participant in the A-CO2 Anaconda Carbon Program, a formal initiative to offset our carbon footprint and move toward carbon neutrality. For each flight, we assess our environmental impact and invest in certified carbon offset projects.
Aerocaribe is fully certified and licensed by Costa Rica’s civil aviation authority (DGAC). We operate our own Certified Aircraft Maintenance Center, ensuring our fleet meets all airworthiness standards. Additionally, we are certified participants in the A-CO2 Anaconda Carbon Program for environmental sustainability, demonstrating our commitment beyond aviation compliance.
All Aerocaribe pilots are certified commercial aviators with extensive experience flying over Costa Rica’s varied terrain. Our Chief Pilot, Jose González Guerrero, has been a commercial pilot since 2013. Our CEO, Mario Villatoro Alfaro, is himself a commercial pilot since 2011. Our Training Director, Alfonso Vargas Madrigal, is both a flight instructor and architect — an all-around aviation professional. All pilots are deeply familiar with Costa Rica’s airports, weather patterns, and geography.
Absolutely. Safety is Aerocaribe’s number-one priority. We employ experienced commercial pilots, use modern aircraft, maintain our own certified maintenance center, and operate in full compliance with Costa Rica’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) regulations. Our Safety Director is a qualified Electronic Engineer and Commercial Pilot, ensuring rigorous safety protocols at every level of our operation.
Safety is our top priority. Aerocaribe has its own certified aircraft maintenance center at Tobías Bolaños Airport, staffed by aviation professionals who conduct thorough inspections before and after every flight. All our aircraft comply with the highest safety standards set by Costa Rican aviation authorities (DGAC). We use the latest maintenance technology to ensure airworthiness at all times.
Depending on the aircraft selected, our flights can accommodate between 4 and 12 passengers. The Cessna 206 fits 4–5 passengers, the Piper Seneca fits up to 5, KingAir C90 6-7 passengers and the Cessna Caravan — our largest fixed-wing aircraft — fits up to 12 passengers. For larger groups, we can coordinate multiple flights. Helicopter capacity is flexible and offered on demand.
Aerocaribe operates a modern, well-maintained fleet tailored for Costa Rica’s diverse terrain and short-haul routes. Our fleet includes: the Cessna 206 (4–5 passengers, max 850 lb payload), the Piper PA-34 Seneca (5 passengers, max 950 lb), the Cessna Caravan (up to 12 passengers, max 1,900 lb payload), KingAir C90 6-7 passengers, max 1900 lb payload) and Helicopters (capacity on demand). Each aircraft is meticulously maintained at our own certified maintenance center.
Yes! Aerocaribe is proudly pet-friendly. We believe every member of the family should be able to travel together. Your pets are welcome aboard our charter flights, making us one of the few private charter operators in Costa Rica to offer this service. Please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your furry companions appropriately.
While our primary focus is domestic flights within Costa Rica, Aerocaribe also services select nearby international destinations, including Bocas del Toro in Panama and Roatán in Honduras. For other regional destinations, contact us to discuss availability and logistics.
Aerocaribe provides emergency Air Ambulance and Medevac flights for patients who are too ill or frail to travel by commercial aviation. We are equipped to transport patients safely, quickly, and with minimal stress. This service operates both domestically within Costa Rica and to neighboring countries. Contact us 24/7 for medical evacuation emergencies.
Yes! Our aerial tours are one of our most popular offerings. You can fly over Arenal Volcano and its lava fields, cruise above the Pacific or Caribbean coastlines, or enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest canopy. Tours can be customized to your preferred route and duration. They make for an unforgettable experience and are perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Absolutely. Our Aerocaribe Business Flights service is designed for executives and corporate teams who value time, comfort, and discretion. We offer flexible scheduling, departures from any airport in Costa Rica that best suits your itinerary, and a cabin environment suited for confidential conversations. Fly directly to your meeting destination without delays, from whichever city you’re in.
Yes. Aerocaribe offers helicopter flights, primarily as an on-demand service for scenic tours, point-to-point transfers, or special requests. Helicopter services are available based on availability. Contact us directly for pricing and scheduling — our team will coordinate everything for your experience.
A private charter flight means you book the entire aircraft exclusively for your group. There are no shared passengers, no layovers, and no fixed schedules — the flight departs on your time. In Costa Rica, this is especially valuable because it allows you to reach remote destinations like Drake Bay, Nosara, or Tortuguero in under an hour instead of spending 4–6 hours driving on rough roads.
Aerocaribe offers a comprehensive range of aerial services: Private Charter Flights (one-way and round trips), Helicopter Flights, Business Flights for corporate travel, Aerial Tours over volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests, Air Ambulance/Medevac services, and AeroCaribe Hangar Services. We also offer Aircraft Management services.
Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST. For bookings and inquiries, you can also reach us at sales@aerocaribecr.com or by phone at +506 2231-0608 / +506 6030-3270.
Our clients include tourists from the United States and Canada looking to explore Costa Rica’s best destinations without wasting hours on the road, business executives, political figures, families on vacation, and anyone seeking premium air travel at a fair price. We are especially popular among luxury travelers, surf enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and adventure seekers.
Aerocaribe has been operating since 2013 — over 13 years of continuous and reliable charter flight service. During this time, we have safely flown thousands of hours and built a reputation as the most trusted private air charter company in Costa Rica.
Aerocaribe’s main headquarters is at Tobías Bolaños International Airport in Pavas, San José. However, our fleet operates across all of Costa Rica’s airports and airstrips — including Liberia (Daniel Oduber International Airport), Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, and dozens of regional and remote airstrips nationwide. Whether you’re departing from Guanacaste, the Central Valley, or the Caribbean coast, Aerocaribe can meet you there.
Aerocaribe is Costa Rica’s leading private charter flight company, headquartered at Tobías Bolaños International Airport in Pavas, San José. Founded in 2013, we specialize in private air charter services throughout Costa Rica and select international destinations. With over 13 years of experience, we have completed more than 21,979 flights serving over 76,905 passengers.