Explore Costa Rica: Southwest Airlines Unveils New Las Vegas to San José Route, Its Longest Ever

Published on February 26, 2026

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In an exciting move for both Southwest Airlines and travelers looking for a convenient connection to Central America, the airline has announced its longest-ever international route to San José, Costa Rica. This new service will also be the carrier’s first-ever non-US overnight flight, marking a major milestone in Southwest’s expanding international network.

Las Vegas has now become a key gateway to San José, with Southwest offering six weekly flights between the two cities. The overnight flight is a new approach for the airline, which has traditionally focused on domestic travel. The route will connect Las Vegas with the bustling capital of Costa Rica, offering easy access for both tourists seeking the natural beauty of Costa Rica and business travelers heading to the country for meetings and conferences.

A Shift Toward More International Routes for Southwest

Since Southwest first ventured into the international market in 2014, the carrier has focused primarily on short-haul, high-frequency flights to neighboring Mexico and the Caribbean. Despite this, Southwest’s international flights still account for only 2% of its total operations, thanks to its dominant presence in the U.S. domestic market. However, the introduction of Las Vegas-San José is a sign of the carrier’s growing international ambitions.

Historically, Southwest’s longest commercial route was a service from Los Angeles to Liberia, Costa Rica, a route that covered 2,283 nautical miles (4,428 km) one-way. After its cancellation in 2017, Southwest continued to operate flights between Denver and San José, but the Las Vegas route surpasses both in distance. The new overnight service represents a new approach for the airline, combining longer travel distances with the convenience of overnight operations to better cater to the increasing demand for international travel.

New Routes to San José: Connecting More U.S. Cities to Costa Rica

In addition to the Las Vegas flight, Southwest has introduced several other routes to San José, further enhancing access to Costa Rica. These new services, including flights from Baltimore, Denver, Houston Hobby, Nashville, and Orlando, make Costa Rica more accessible than ever before for travelers across the U.S. The expanded network offers an array of options for visitors who wish to explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Costa Rica, with destinations like Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Monteverde Cloud Forest easily accessible from San José.

The Las Vegas-San José route will be operated six times weekly, with flights departing Las Vegas at 11:20 pm, and arriving in San José the following morning at 6:00 am. The return flight from San José to Las Vegas will leave at 12:15 pm and arrive in Las Vegas at 5:05 pm. These flight times are designed to maximize travel efficiency and give visitors plenty of time to explore Costa Rica upon arrival.

The Impact on Tourism: Costa Rica’s Growing Popularity

Costa Rica continues to be one of the most popular travel destinations in Central America, drawing nature lovers, adventure seekers, and eco-tourists from around the globe. The country is known for its rich biodiversity, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and opportunities for activities like zip-lining, surfing, and wildlife viewing. With its stable climate and eco-friendly reputation, Costa Rica has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and sustainability.

For Las Vegas residents and tourists, this new route offers a seamless connection to the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Las Vegas, often seen as a city of entertainment and indulgence, now opens the door for travelers to explore the serenity of Costa Rica’s beaches and national parks. Costa Rica’s position as a prime destination for eco-tourism and adventure travel makes it an ideal complement to the leisure offerings in Las Vegas.

A Look Ahead: Expanding Southwest’s International Network

Southwest Airlines continues to evolve its network and expand its international offerings. The Las Vegas-San José route is part of a broader push to increase the airline’s international capacity while maintaining its reputation for low-cost travel. While Southwest’s core business remains focused on the domestic market, its foray into international long-haul flights is an exciting development for frequent travelers and those looking to explore new destinations.

The airline has plans to continue expanding its international network, with future routes that may include more leisure and business destinations in Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. For travelers seeking a straightforward, affordable way to explore Costa Rica and beyond, Southwest’s new services provide convenient and accessible options.

Experience Costa Rica with Southwest: The Ultimate Getaway

For tourists heading to Costa Rica for a tropical getaway, the Las Vegas to San José route offers both a relaxing and convenient way to experience one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. From surfing in Tamarindo to hiking through the rainforests of Monteverde, Costa Rica offers travelers the chance to immerse themselves in natural beauty while enjoying modern amenities. With Southwest Airlines now connecting Las Vegas directly to San José, travelers can start their adventure right from their doorstep.

Whether for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Costa Rica offers something for everyone. Southwest’s new route ensures that more travelers can experience this gem of Central America in comfort and style, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.