Private Air Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Flying from
Travel Time by Air
25 minutes
71 km / 44 mi
Travel Time by Ground
2.5-3 hour drive
156 km / 97 mi
Manuel Antonio Highlights
Perfect Beach and Rainforest Blend
Experience the ideal combination of white sand beaches bordered by lush tropical rainforest, offering spectacular views where jungle meets ocean in one of Costa Rica's most picturesque settings
Exceptional Wildlife Viewing
Explore Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica, home to 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas
World-Class Beaches
Relax on some of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches including Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla, offering excellent swimming, sunbathing, and sunset views
Manuel Antonio Quick Snapshots
Ideal Destinations to Combine On Your Trip
Transfer Details
| Destination | Flight Duration | Route Description |
|---|---|---|
| Drake Bay | 25 minutes | Coastal flight along the Pacific shoreline with views of pristine beaches, rainforests, and the dramatic meeting of Osa Peninsula and Manuel Antonio regions |
| Arenal Volcano | 35 minutes | Travel across Costa Rica's central mountain ranges with views of Arenal Volcano, cloud forests, and Pacific coastline before landing at Manuel Antonio |
| Monteverde | 30 minutes | Spectacular transition from cloud forest highlands to coastal lowlands with panoramic views of the Gulf of Nicoya and Pacific beaches |
Quick Facts
Landing Type: Airstrip
Most fixed-wing aircraft land at Quepos Airstrip, a small regional airport serving the Manuel Antonio area. This well-maintained airstrip features basic facilities including a small waiting area, restrooms, and taxi services. The airstrip is located approximately 10-15 minutes from most accommodations in the Manuel Antonio area. Many lodges provide their own transportation from the airstrip.
Recommended Arrival Times
Morning: 7 to 10 am
Optimal visibility over rainforests and coastline
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Early arrivals accommodated with breakfast and beach access until room is ready (official check-in: 3:00 PM at most lodges)
Layover Recommendations
Schedule 30 minutes for pre-flight check-in and briefing; morning flights offer the clearest weather conditions
Mid Day: 11 am to 2 pm
Perfect for early morning arrivals to SJO
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Arrive just in time for lunch and standard check-in at most properties
Layover Recommendations
Allow extra time for connection during busy period at customs.
Afternoon: 3 to 5 pm
Mid-day and early afternoon international arrivals can still comfortably get to their beach destination
Hotel Check-in/Check-out Coordination
Immediate check-in with welcome cocktail!
Layover Recommendations
Consider seasonal weather patterns; afternoon rain showers are common during rainy season
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 Manuel Antonio Worth The Visit?
A small town fronting the central Pacific Coast, Manuel Antonio is just down the road from Quepos. The star attraction here is Manuel Antonio National Park, with its three white sand beaches.
Skip the drive from San José and catch a bird’s-eye view of the region as you fly into Quepos La Managua Airport. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll be soaking up the ocean vistas from one of the many fine hotels and resorts in the area.
Manuel Antonio boasts several private homes and villas with heliports, and there are some hotels where you can land directly.
Available From International Airports
Manuel Antonio Transfer Details
| Airport Name | Flight Duration | Route Description |
|---|---|---|
| Juan Santamaría International Airport | by Plane: 30 minutes by Helicopter: 35 minutes | Scenic flight over Costa Rica's central mountain ranges and Pacific coastline with spectacular views of rainforests, rivers, and beaches |
| Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport | by Plane: 50 minutes by Helicopter: 60 minutes | Dramatic journey over Guanacaste's dry forests, central mountains, and down the Pacific coast, showcasing Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the airport closest to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
While Manuel Antonio doesn’t have its own airport, the closest airstrip is Quepos La Managua Airport, located just 15 minutes from Manuel Antonio town.
IATA code: XQP
ICAO code: MRQPHow far is Quepos Airport from major hotels and attractions in Manuel Antonio?
Quepos Airport is located approximately 9 km (about a 20-25-minute drive) from most hotels, beaches, and the Manuel Antonio National Park entrance.
Most boutique hotels, luxury villas, and eco-lodges in Manuel Antonio are within a 15–25-minute drive, depending on traffic and location.Are there rental car offices at Quepos Airport (XQP)?
There are no rental car offices inside the airport, but all major companies—such as Adobe, Alamo, Enterprise, and National—have offices in downtown Quepos and Manuel Antonio.
You can pre-arrange for your rental car to be delivered to the airport upon landing, or request airport pickup when returning your vehicle.Why fly to Manuel Antonio instead of driving?
Flying to Manuel Antonio from San José saves you approximately 3 hours of driving through winding coastal and mountain roads.
During high season, traffic on major highways can be heavy—turning a 3-hour drive into a 4 to 5-hour journey.
A short domestic flight offers not only speed and comfort, but also stunning aerial views of the Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and charming towns—transforming your transfer into part of the adventure.Can you fly from Manuel Antonio to other destinations in Costa Rica?
Yes! Costa Rica has a wide network of regional airports, and Quepos (XQP) is one of the most connected airstrips in the country.
You can easily fly from Manuel Antonio to top destinations across Costa Rica—and vice versa.Some of the most popular domestic flight routes from Manuel Antonio include:
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to La Fortuna (Arenal)
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to Tamarindo
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to Santa Teresa
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to Nosara
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to Drake Bay
- Flights from Manuel Antonio to Puerto Jiménez
Air travel is the best way to explore Costa Rica’s most beautiful regions without spending hours on the road—saving you time while offering unforgettable aerial views of the coast, rainforest, and volcanoes.
Is there transportation or taxis available at Quepos Airport (XQP)?
Yes. While there’s no official taxi desk, several transportation options are available:
- Private transportation/shuttle (recommended): You can book shared or private transfers in advance through Adventure Air, your hotel, or local shuttle providers.
- Hotel transfers: Many hotels in Manuel Antonio offer direct airport pick-up services if arranged ahead of time.
- Uber / Taxi: Both Uber and local taxis are available in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area. However, availability can vary, especially during peak hours or in remote locations. We recommend checking the Uber app in advance or calling a registered taxi through your hotel or a trusted provider.
- Rent-a-car: Most rental car companies offer delivery to the airport upon request if booked in advance.
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.