The San Jose Airport in Costa Rica

Located in Alajuela, just outside Costa Rica’s capital city of San José, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is a key entry and exit point for travelers exploring this beautiful country. While often associated with San José, the airport is technically situated about 12 miles west of the capital, making it convenient for reaching popular destinations across Costa Rica.

I know some people mistakenly consider Costa Rica a third-world country and might worry about the quality of its airport. Rest assured, Costa Rica is classified as an upper-middle-income country, with a somewhat well-developed infrastructure to match. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is a prime example of this, offering modern, clean, and well-maintained facilities that rival airports in the U.S. and Europe.

Who Was Juan Santamaria?

Juan Santamaría, born in 1831 in Alajuela, Costa Rica, is a national hero known for his bravery during the Battle of Rivas in 1856. As a drummer in the Costa Rican militia, he volunteered to carry out a dangerous mission to set fire to an enemy stronghold, which ultimately led to a crucial victory against American filibuster William Walker’s forces. Santamaría’s selfless act, for which he was fatally wounded, is remembered as a symbol of national pride. His legacy is celebrated every year on April 11 and honored with monuments, including the Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela.

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When we traveled to Costa Rica in the Spring of 2024, we flew in and out of SJO. Let me share some of the photos I took and information about the airport.

Highlights Inside the Airport

SJO is filled with features that cater to travelers of all kinds, whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or souvenir shopper. Some highlights include:

• Gift Shops: You’ll find a variety of stores offering Costa Rican coffee, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. There’s even a Blue Zones shop celebrating Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula as one of the world’s longevity hotspots.

• Cafes and Bars: Enjoy a quick cup of authentic Costa Rican coffee or relax with a drink at one of the airport’s cozy cafes and bars.

• Unique Installations: Look for the oversized sculpture of a red-eyed tree frog near a massive glass window. It’s a fun spot for snapping a memorable photo before departure.

• Dog Watering Station: A thoughtful amenity for travelers flying with pets. (Look for the pet area near boarding lounge 17.)

• Currency Exchange: The airport houses a money exchange kiosk. While the rates might not always be favorable, it’s a convenient option if you need to exchange colones before heading home. (The Spanish word “cambio” means “change” in English.)

Navigating the Airport

When departing from SJO, you’ll pass through customs and then move into an area with various gift shops and eateries before arriving at the gates. The airport is designed for efficiency, but here are some tips to make your experience smoother:

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least two to three hours for international flights, as customs and security can take time.
2. Understand the Time Zone: Costa Rica operates on Central Standard Time (CST) and does not observe daylight saving time. Make sure your devices are set correctly to avoid confusion.
3. Keep Travel Documents Handy: Have your passport, boarding pass, and any required travel documents ready, especially for customs.
4. Pack Accordingly: Familiarize yourself with Costa Rica’s airport security rules to avoid delays. Liquids, sharp objects, and certain foods may be restricted.
5. Stay Connected: The airport offers free Wi-Fi, so you can check last-minute emails or share your adventures with loved ones before boarding.
6. Shop for Last-Minute Souvenirs: Many shops feature Costa Rican coffee, chocolate, and unique crafts. It’s a good opportunity to pick up a thoughtful gift if you missed shopping earlier.
7. Currency Considerations: If you have leftover colones, consider exchanging them here—unless you’re planning to return to Costa Rica soon.

The airport is an international hub that connects Costa Rica to 38 destinations worldwide, serviced by 26 airlines, making it an essential gateway for travelers exploring Central and South America, North America, and beyond. For those seeking a touch of luxury or a quiet place to relax before departure, the airport offers two lounges:

• VIP Santamaria Lounge: Located on the upper level near boarding gate 5.
• VIP Lounge: Situated on the upper level near boarding gate 19.

Both lounges are open daily from 4:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Unfortunately, we didn’t think to check them out while waiting to board our flight home—a missed opportunity to enjoy their amenities!

Keep in mind that airport lounges are only accessible before departure, so you’ll need to plan ahead to enjoy them. Your credit card may offer lounge benefits, so it’s worth checking in advance. If not, you might still be able to access the lounges by paying a fee, giving you a comfortable and relaxing space to enjoy before your flight.

Travel Precautions

1. Security Awareness: Like any international airport, keep your belongings close and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
2. Health Measures: Follow any current health and safety guidelines, especially if traveling during periods of heightened health concerns. While we were there, there was no need to mask up.
3. Language Help: While most airport staff speak English, downloading a translation app like Google Translate can be handy for navigating signs or communicating with locals. The app can quickly translate phrases and even assist with pronunciation, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
4. Food and Water: Take advantage of the airport’s cafes and eateries to grab a bite before your flight. It’s also your last chance to enjoy an authentic cup of Costa Rican coffee while still in Costa Rica—a perfect way to savor the flavors of this beautiful country one last time. Many items can be purchased to enjoy on the plane, so you won’t go hungry during your journey.

Transportation Options

Getting to and from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is easy, with several options to suit your travel needs:

• Uber: While not technically “legal” in Costa Rica, Uber does operate in the country. We used it a couple of times while in downtown San José, and it was a convenient option.
• Taxis: For our trip home, we took a cab from our hotel to the airport. Official taxis are readily available, especially in tourist areas and at the airport.
• Private Drivers or Shuttle Services: You can hire a private driver or transportation company for a more personalized and stress-free experience. We used Go Jaco Shuttle for most of our transportation, including being picked up from the airport, and highly recommend them.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car is another option, with many well-known companies operating near the airport. Be sure to budget for insurance—it’s required and absolutely worth it. Driving (or even riding) in Costa Rica is an adventure in itself, with unique road conditions and traffic patterns to navigate.

Whether you’re enjoying a fresh cup of Costa Rican coffee, snapping a photo with the red-eyed tree frog sculpture, or browsing through the Blue Zones shop, SJO offers a comfortable and enjoyable departure experience. Take advantage of the airport’s amenities to savor your last moments in Costa Rica.

Have any travel tips or experiences at SJO? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!

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