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Juan Santamaría International Airport

Gateway to Costa Rican Adventures

Airport in Costa Rica

San José (15 km)

48 destinations

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Juan Santamaría International Airport serves as Costa Rica’s main gateway to global travel. The airport handles flights from cities across North America and beyond. Its location near San José provides easy access for visitors reaching destinations in the country. With modern facilities, travelers find check-in and baggage services available alongside dining options and currency exchange. The site plays a key role in connecting Costa Rica’s economy with international markets. Daily operations include security checks and flight updates displayed on digital screens throughout the terminal.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

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San Jose Airport Summary

Juan Santamaría International Airport is an airport near San José in Costa Rica. It currently offers regular passenger service to 48 destinations operated by 26 airlines.

Top airlines

SANSA Regional (RZ)

310 flights per week

AVIANCA (AV)

105 flights per week

Skygreece Airlines (GW)

94 flights per week

Top destinations

PTY Panama City

XQP Quepos

IAH Houston

Cheapest destinations

MCO Orlando

MIA Miami

BOG Bogotá

Best destinations

EWR New York City

JFK New York City

CDG Paris

Costa Rica – Quick facts

Guide Etiquette Holidays Other

Power Grid:	120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B Type A: Type B: Read about power adapters
Currency:	Costa Rican Colón (CRC) £1 ≈ CRC 605.44
Cashless info:	Rating 4/5 Costa Rica has a well-developed cashless payment system, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. However, it is still useful to carry cash in rural areas. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included, but it is common to leave an additional tip of 5-10%.
Public drinking:	Public drinking is not commonly allowed in Costa Rica. Alcohol consumption is generally confined to licensed venues such as bars, restaurants, and resorts.
Public smoking:	Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces and enclosed areas, including restaurants and public transport.

Independence Day (15 September)	National holiday with celebrations and parades
Christmas (25 December)	Family-centred celebration

Emergency contact:	Emergency Number: 911
Taxi apps:	Uber
Other:	Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity, eco-tourism, and commitment to environmental conservation. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure travellers.

Juan Santamaría International Airport offers a modern terminal with a range of amenities including duty-free shops, local craft boutiques and a variety of restaurants featuring Costa Rican and international cuisine. Its recent expansions have improved passenger flow and enhanced traveler comfort.

The airport combines efficiency with a warm, tropical atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi, ample seating and helpful customer service contribute to a positive experience. However, travelers should be prepared for occasional delays during peak travel seasons and navigate busy security lines.

Transportation to and from the airport is diverse with taxis, shuttle buses and car rentals available. While shuttle buses and taxis provide convenient airport transfers, traffic congestion on routes to San José can add time to travel, especially during rush hours.

SJO offers a great balance of services and accessibility, making it an ideal spot to start an unforgettable journey to Costa Rica’s diverse natural and cultural attractions.

Helpful tips for Juan Santamaría International Airport

Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights, three hours for international.
Use the airport's free Wi‑Fi and charging stations; check the official app for real‑time gate updates.
Purchase a prepaid SIM or use local data plans to avoid high roaming charges during your stay in Costa Rica.
The airport offers a duty‑free shop with local coffee, chocolate and handmade crafts – great for last‑minute souvenirs.

Available airport lounges

VIP Lounge

This lounge offers comfortable seating, light snacks, refreshments, and free Wi-Fi. It is accessible for premium ticket holders and via day passes. The lounge provides a quiet break in the bustling terminal.

The Rainforest Lounge

A cosy lounge featuring tropical decor, drinks, and snacks, designed to give travellers a taste of Costa Rican nature. Access limited to select passengers.

Where to stay near Juan Santamaría International Airport

San José and nearby Alajuela provide a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors often choose spots that offer easy access to the airport and city amenities.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

9.0

Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center

7.7

Berlor Airport Inn

8.5

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

9.1

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cariari San Jose - Costa Rica

8.9

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel and Steak House

8.9

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

9.6

Airport Hotel Costa Rica

8.3

Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall

8.9

Aloft by Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

9.1

Explore more accommodations

How to get from San Jose Airport to popular destinations

To San José:
Located about 20 kilometres from the airport, accessible by official airport shuttles, taxis, or car hire. Shuttle services operate frequently with travel times of 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis and rideshares are convenient but potentially expensive during peak hours.

To Arenal Volcano:
Approximately 130 kilometres northwest accessible by car or shuttle buses. Travel time is approximately 3 hours. Direct transport bookings are recommended as public bus options can be limited.

To Guanacaste Beaches:
About 150 kilometres west, reachable by hire car or regional domestic flights from nearby airports. Travel by road typically takes 3-4 hours, with scenic views of Costa Rica's coast.