Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
San José, Costa Rica
Overview
Juan Santamaría International Airport is Costa Rica's primary international gateway and busiest airport in Central America, handling 5+ million passengers. Located in Alajuela, 18km northwest of San José city centre. A functional, increasingly modernized airport that is the hub for Nature Air and the base for most regional flights.
Terminals
Single main terminal with international arrivals, departures, and domestic gates. A new terminal expansion has improved international capacity. Clear wayfinding.
Transport to city center
Interbus to San José hotels (30–45 min, USD 10). Taxi Aeropuerto (orange taxis, metered): USD 25–35, 25–45 min. Uber/InDriver: USD 12–18. Bus from outside the airport: very cheap but not recommended with luggage.
Lounges
Club El Dorado Lounge (Priority Pass eligible), Copa Club. The lounges are modest but functional.
Travel tips
Always use orange official taxis or Uber — do not accept offers from drivers in the terminal. Costa Rica's biodiversity starts immediately — look for hummingbirds and tropical birds around the airport grounds. Confirm whether your onward transport to Monteverde, Arenal, or Manuel Antonio is included in your hotel package.