The Cayo Perico Heist is the most profitable solo activity in GTA Online. This guide walks you through the optimal route to complete it in under an hour for maximum payout.
Step 1: Start the Intel Mission
Go to your Kosatka submarine and start the heist from the planning board. Fly to Cayo Perico for the mandatory scoping mission. You must photograph the primary target in El Rubio’s compound. Optionally, scope secondary targets (cocaine is the most valuable at $220K per stack) and entry points.
Step 2: Choose Your Approach
The Kosatka approach is the fastest for solo players. Enter via the drainage tunnel (requires scoping it first), which puts you directly inside the compound near the primary target. For the weapon loadout, choose the Aggressor or Conspirator for suppressors.
Step 3: Prep Missions (Skip What You Can)
Required preps: Weapon loadout, Equipment (cutting torch or demolition charges for drainage tunnel). The Kosatka approach lets you skip the most tedious preps. Total prep time: 20-30 minutes for experienced players.
Step 4: The Finale
Enter through drainage tunnel → swim to compound → eliminate 2-3 guards silently → access the vault → grab primary target → fill bags with secondary loot on the way out → exit compound → swim to the left and escape the island. Elite Challenge completion (under 15 minutes) gives a $100K bonus.
