Private Air Transfer to Corcovado
Private Flight to Corcovado: Your Gateway to Central America's Last Wild Frontier
Flying from
Travel Time by Air
50 minutes
170–190 km / 105–120 mi
Travel Time by Ground
8–10+ hours (including boat transfer or long 4x4 route)
varies due to remote location and boat transfer logistics
Corcovado Highlights
National Geographic-Level Wildlife
Corcovado is home to tapirs, jaguars, scarlet macaws, all four monkey species in Costa Rica, and hundreds of bird, reptile, and amphibian species.
True Rainforest Immersion
Dense primary rainforest, remote ranger stations, and unspoiled beaches create an authentic off-grid experience.
Snorkeling & Diving at Caño Island
Off the coast, Caño Island offers top-tier snorkeling and diving with sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks.
Corcovado Quick Snapshots
Ideal Destinations to Combine On Your Trip
Transfer Details
| Destination | Flight Duration | Route Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arenal Volcano | 50 minutes | Cross-country flight from volcanic highlands to coastal rainforest lowlands |
| Manuel Antonio | 30 minutes | Scenic route down the Pacific coastline with views of beaches and jungle ridges |
| Uvita | 25 minutes | Quick coastal hop with views of Marino Ballena and Terraba Sierpe wetlands |
Quick Facts
Landing Type: Airstrip
Most travelers arrive via Drake Bay Airstrip (DRK) or Puerto Jiménez Airstrip (PJM) depending on the location of their lodge or planned activities. Both are small regional airports suitable for private charters and domestic flights, located close to park access points. Many eco-lodges coordinate transfers directly from the airstrip by boat or 4×4.
Recommended Arrival Times
Morning: 7 to 10 am
Ideal for boat transfers and daytime hikes; early flights ensure same-day park access
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Arrive in time for orientation, breakfast, and early lodge check-in
Layover Recommendations
Morning flights avoid weather delays common in the Osa in the afternoon
Mid Day: 11 am to 2 pm
Works well for same-day connections from SJO arrivals
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Arrival before standard check-in, often met with welcome drink or lunch
Layover Recommendations
Time buffers are recommended due to potential weather variability
Afternoon: 3 to 5 pm
Somewhat limited; remote areas like Drake Bay prefer earlier arrivals
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Possible late check-ins; coordinate with lodge if arriving by boat transfer
Layover Recommendations
Flights must land before dark; remote airstrips do not operate at night
Treat Yourself with Something Special
Practical Information
What You Need to Know
✔ Bring valid passport!
✔ Children of all ages welcome
Luggage allowances are customized for each flight based on:
✔ Aircraft type
✔ Number of passengers
✔Total weight distribution
✔Flight conditions
Please contact our team for specific luggage allowances for your itinerary. Soft-sided bags are recommended for easier storage.
Accessibility Information
Our air transfers can accommodate passengers with mobility considerations with advance notice.
Is Corcovado Worth The Visit?
Corcovado is one of the last remaining untouched rainforests in Central America. National Geographic once called it “the most biologically intense place on Earth,” and with good reason. Hiking through the jungle here feels like stepping into another world—howler monkeys echo through the canopy, scarlet macaws soar overhead, and tapir tracks line the beach trails.
Reaching Corcovado by private flight eliminates the stress and time of long, bumpy drives and unpredictable boat transfers. Whether you’re staying at an eco-lodge in Drake Bay, hiking in from Carate, or heading to Sirena Ranger Station, private air access gives you the freedom to arrive ready for adventure.
Available From International Airports
Corcovado Transfer Details
| Airport Name | Flight Duration | Route Description |
|---|---|---|
| Juan Santamaría International Airport | by Plane: 45 minutes by Helicopter: 50 minutes | Direct access from capital to Osa Peninsula over central valleys and coastal zones |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest airports to Corcovado National Park?
Corcovado National Park is located in the remote Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica and is best accessed by small regional airports or private charter airstrips. The main air access points include:
- Carate Airport (MRCR)
- Drake Bay Airport (DRK / MRDK)
- Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM / MRPJ)
- Golfito Airport (GLF / MRGF)
- Sirena National Park Airstrip
Which airport should I choose to visit Corcovado National Park?
Choosing the best airport depends on which sector of Corcovado National Park you plan to visit and your preferred method of transportation.
Drake Bay Airport (DRK)
Best option for visiting San Pedrillo or Sirena Station by boat. Many tours and lodges operate directly from Drake Bay, with short boat rides into the park.Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM)
Ideal for land-based access to Carate, La Leona Station, or Los Patos Station. This airport is recommended for travelers staying on the southeastern side of the Osa Peninsula.Carate Airport (MRCR)
The closest possible air access to La Leona Station. This small airstrip is used only for private charter flights and requires a rugged ground transfer after landing.Golfito Airport (GLF)
A good alternative for travelers who plan to reach Corcovado via boat. From Golfito, it is possible to take a scenic boat transfer to Puerto Jiménez or Bahía Drake.Sirena Airstrip
For those seeking exclusive and time-saving access to the heart of the park, the Sirena Airstrip will be available for helicopter arrivals only starting in December 2025. This is the most direct option for visiting Sirena Biological Station.How long is the flight to Corcovado’s airports?
Flight durations to the main airstrips near Corcovado National Park vary depending on your departure location and the type of service (private charter or scheduled flight). Here are the approximate travel times:
From San José (SJO or SYQ):
- San José to Puerto Jiménez (PJM): ~50 minutes
- San José to Drake Bay (DRK): ~50 minutes
- San José to Carate (MRCR): ~1 hour (charter only)
- San José to Sirena Airstrip: ~1 hour (helicopter only)
- San José to Golfito (GLF): ~50 minutes
From Liberia (LIR):
- Liberia to Puerto Jiménez: ~1 hour (charter only)
- Liberia to Drake Bay: ~1 hour (charter only)
- Liberia to Carate: ~1 hour 10 minutes (charter only)
- Liberia to Sirena Airstrip: ~1 hour 10 minutes (helicopter only)
- Liberia to Golfito: ~1 hour (charter only)
Note:
- Puerto Jiménez (PJM), Drake Bay (DRK), and Golfito (GLF) receive both private charter and regularly scheduled domestic flights from San José.
- Carate and Sirena are accessible only by charter flights or helicopter, and are recommended for travelers seeking direct access to remote park sectors.
- Sirena Airstrip will be open to helicopter landings only starting December 2025, offering the most direct access to Sirena Biological Station.
Flying is the fastest, most efficient way to access Corcovado National Park, especially compared to the 7–10 hour drive from San José.
Are there flights from Corcovado to other destinations in Costa Rica?
Yes! Charter flights from Puerto Jiménez or Drake Bay make it easy to continue your trip to top destinations across the country. Whether you are planning to explore beaches, volcanoes, or cloud forests, flying from Corcovado maximizes your time.
Popular routes include:
- Flights from Corcovado to Manuel Antonio / Quepos
- Flights from Corcovado to Nosara (Via Cobano)
- Flights from Corcovado to Santa Teresa
- Flights from Corcovado to La Fortuna (Arenal)
- Flights from Corcovado to Monteverde (via Aranjuez)
- Flights from Corcovado to Nosara (NOB)
- Flights from Corcovado to Limon Airport
Helicopter service is also available for point-to-point transfers, including direct landings at private lodges, helipads, or remote eco-resorts.
Is transportation or car rental available at Corcovado’s airports?
Yes. While facilities vary by airport, travelers flying into the Osa Peninsula will find several ground transportation options available depending on the airstrip.
Puerto Jiménez (PJM):
Puerto Jiménez has the most developed infrastructure in the region. You’ll find:- Local taxi services and 4×4 transfers
- Scheduled shuttle routes
- Major car rental agencies, including Alamo, Budget, Economy, and Adobe
Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially in high season.
Drake Bay (DRK):
Drake is more remote, and there are no car rental desks at the airport. However:- Most lodges and eco-resorts offer pre-arranged transportation
- 4×4 taxis and boats can be organized in advance
- Charter companies or hotels may include airport pickup in your reservation
Golfito (GLF):
Golfito has a small town center with:- Local taxis
- Boat transfers to Puerto Jiménez or Bahía Drake
- Some rental car options, though selection may be limited and should be booked ahead of time
Carate (MRCR) and Sirena Airstrip:
These airstrips are accessible only by private charter, and do not have car rental or taxi services onsite.- Carate requires a 4×4 transfer arranged in advance from Puerto Jiménez
- Sirena is located inside Corcovado National Park and only accessible by helicopter or boat; all logistics must be arranged through your lodge or tour provider
Recommendations:
- Always arrange your ground transportation in advance, especially if landing at smaller airstrips or traveling during the high season.
- 4×4 vehicles are strongly recommended for driving in the Osa Peninsula due to rugged terrain and changing road conditions.
- If you’re staying at a lodge or joining a tour, ask if airport transfers are included.
Top Fly Adventure Air Destinations
Safety Is Our Number One Priority
Safety Information
Flexible Policies
Refund and Cancellation Policy
We operate under strict aviation regulations and our pilots are highly trained professionals. Our helicopters are maintained to the highest safety standards.
✔ Free cancelation: Full refund for cancellations made 48 hours in advance.
✔ 100% refund for weather-related reschedules.