Welcome to Costa Rica: Complete Juan Santamaría Airport Arrival Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know for your arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Transportation, tips, and recommendations for a smooth arrival.
Contents
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Juan Santamaría International Airport is Costa Rica's main international gateway, located in Alajuela, just 20 kilometers west of San José. Named after the country's national hero, this modern airport handles over 5 million passengers annually and serves as the primary entry point for travelers exploring Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity and natural wonders.
The airport features two terminals with modern amenities, efficient immigration processing, and excellent connectivity to all major tourist destinations in the country.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
Immigration Process
Costa Rica's immigration process is efficient and welcoming:
- Complete the digital form - Costa Rica requires a digital health pass (available online before travel)
- Immigration line - Present your passport and return ticket
- Baggage claim - Modern carousel system with clear signage
- Customs declaration - Green lane for nothing to declare, red for items to declare
Tip: Have your accommodation address and return flight information ready, as immigration officers may ask.
Visa Requirements
Costa Rica welcomes tourists from most Western countries without a visa. Citizens from the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and many other nations receive a 90-day tourist stamp upon arrival. You may need to show:
- Proof of onward travel (return ticket)
- Proof of sufficient funds ($100 USD per day recommended)
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
Transportation from the Airport
Private Transfer (Recommended)
The most comfortable option, especially after a long flight. Most hotels and tour operators offer airport pickup services.
- To San José: $25-40 USD
- To La Fortuna (Arenal): $150-200 USD
- To Manuel Antonio: $180-250 USD
- To Monteverde: $180-220 USD
Book in advance through your hotel or a reputable transfer company like Interbus or Grayline.
Official Airport Taxis
Orange taxis with airport authorization operate from the designated taxi stand outside arrivals. Rates are regulated.
- To San José Centro: $25-35 USD
- To Escazú/Santa Ana: $30-40 USD
- To Alajuela: $15-20 USD
Always confirm the fare before departing.
Uber and Rideshare
Uber operates legally in Costa Rica and offers convenient airport pickups.
- Pick up at the designated rideshare area in the parking structure
- Generally 20-30% cheaper than official taxis
- Cashless payment through the app
- Real-time tracking for safety
Shuttle Services
Shared shuttles are economical for solo travelers or couples heading to popular destinations.
- To San José hotels: $15-20 USD per person
- To La Fortuna: $55-65 USD per person
- To Manuel Antonio: $55-75 USD per person
- Departures at scheduled times (check Interbus, Grayline, or Caribe Shuttle)
Rental Cars
Major rental agencies have counters in the arrivals hall:
- Budget, Hertz, Avis, National, Alamo, and local companies
- 4x4 vehicles recommended for rainy season and remote areas
- GPS essential for navigation
- Book in advance for better rates
Practical Tips for Your Arrival
Currency Exchange
- The local currency is the Colón (₡)
- Exchange rate: approximately ₡510 = $1 USD
- USD widely accepted at tourist businesses
- ATMs (cajeros) in arrivals offer competitive rates
- Avoid exchanging large amounts at airport kiosks
SIM Cards and Connectivity
Stay connected during your Costa Rica adventure:
- Kolbi (ICE), Movistar, and Claro have airport kiosks
- Tourist SIM packages: $10-20 USD for 4GB+ data
- Free airport WiFi available
- Most hotels offer complimentary WiFi
Safety Considerations
Costa Rica is one of Central America's safest destinations, but take standard precautions:
- Use only official transportation
- Keep valuables in your carry-on
- Don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
Weather Preparation
Costa Rica has two seasons - dry (December-April) and green/rainy (May-November):
- San José area: 20-28°C (68-82°F) year-round
- Afternoon showers common in green season
- Light layers recommended for highland destinations
- Sunscreen essential regardless of season
Connecting to Popular Destinations
To La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano (2.5-3 hours)
The famous Arenal Volcano and its surrounding hot springs are a top destination. The scenic drive takes you through the Central Valley.
Best option: Private transfer or scheduled shuttle
Explore our Arenal Volcano hotels guide for accommodation options.
To Monteverde Cloud Forest (3-4 hours)
The mystical cloud forests of Monteverde offer incredible wildlife viewing and canopy tours.
Best option: Shared shuttle or private transfer (roads can be rough)
Check out our Monteverde Cloud Forest hotels guide.
To Manuel Antonio (3-3.5 hours)
This Pacific coast paradise combines pristine beaches with excellent wildlife opportunities.
Best option: Domestic flight (20 minutes to Quepos) or ground transfer
See our Manuel Antonio accommodation guide.
To Guanacaste Beaches (4-5 hours from SJO)
Alternative: Fly into Liberia Airport (LIR) for Guanacaste beach destinations.
Discover our Guanacaste beach resorts guide.
Liberia Airport (LIR) - Alternative Gateway
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia serves the Guanacaste region. Consider flying here if your destination is:
- Tamarindo, Flamingo, or Nosara beaches
- Papagayo Peninsula resorts
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Departure Information
When leaving Costa Rica from SJO:
- Arrive 3 hours before international flights
- Departure tax included in ticket price since 2015
- Modern duty-free shopping after security
- Food courts and lounges available
- Currency exchange for remaining colones
Conclusion
Arriving at Juan Santamaría Airport is your gateway to one of the world's most biodiverse countries. With excellent transportation options and modern facilities, you'll be exploring Costa Rica's volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests in no time.
Explore our complete Costa Rica hotels guide to plan your perfect stay, and check out the best eco-lodges for a sustainable travel experience.
¡Pura Vida!
