The international airports of Costa Rica serve as gateways to the country’s paradise and biodiversity. Despite Costa Rica’s small size, its airports have unique similarities and differences that can help travelers decide which airport best suits their itinerary.

Major International Airports

Most visitors to Costa Rica arrive by air at one of the country’s major international airports, which are crucial for regional tourism and business. Familiarizing yourself with these airports can significantly improve your travel experience.

The two main international airports of Costa Rica are:

1. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Located in Alajuela, near the capital city of San José, this is the largest and busiest airport in Costa Rica. Named after a national hero, it serves as the primary entry point for international visitors.
2. Guanacaste International Airport (LIR): Situated in Liberia, Guanacaste, this airport is the second busiest in the country. It primarily caters to the popular tourist destination of Guanacaste, known for its beautiful beaches, national parks, and luxury resorts.

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Historical Background: Established in 1958 and named after Juan Santamaría, a revered national hero, this airport has undergone numerous renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of travelers.

Facilities: SJO offers a variety of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, currency exchange services, VIP lounges, and WiFi access. Information desks staffed with multilingual personnel are available to assist passengers.

Airlines and Destinations: Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Copa Airlines, Avianca, and Southwest Airlines operate here, offering connections to North America, Central America, South America, and Europe.

Transportation: The airport provides multiple transportation options, including taxis, private and shared shuttle services, rental cars, and public buses. The Uber app is also available in Costa Rica.

Expansion Projects: Recent expansion projects aim to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and capacity to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.

Guanacaste International Airport (LIR)

(Video from http://www.youtube.com/@cityandlocal—check them out if your are a traveler.)

History: Opened in 1995 and named after former president Daniel Oduber Quirós, this airport plays a crucial role in connecting Guanacaste to domestic and international destinations.

Facilities and Services: LIR offers modern terminal buildings with amenities such as restaurants, shops, car rental agencies, VIP lounges, duty-free shopping, currency exchange services, and WiFi access.

Airlines and Destinations: Airlines like Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Air Canada provide connections to cities in the United States, Canada, and beyond, including Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Toronto.

Transportation: The airport is well-connected to the surrounding areas through various transportation options, including taxis, private shuttle services, shared shuttles, car rental agencies, and public buses.

Expansion and Growth: LIR has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic, reflecting the increasing popularity of Guanacaste as a tourist destination. Expansion projects have enhanced its infrastructure and capacity.

Other International Airports

Costa Rica has two more international airports that do not receive commercial flights:

1. Tobas Bolaños International Airport (SYQ): Located in Pavas, it handles mostly domestic flights within Costa Rica.
2. Limón International Airport (LIO): Situated on the Caribbean coast, it serves as a gateway to the eastern part of Costa Rica, facilitating travel to popular destinations like Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, and Tortuguero.

Domestic Airports and Airstrips

In addition to the international airports, Costa Rica has various domestic airports and airstrips that cater to regional flights and charter services. These smaller airports play a vital role in connecting remote areas of the country and promoting tourism beyond the main tourist hubs.

Conclusion

Costa Rica’s international airports, Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Guanacaste International Airport (LIR), are essential for connecting travelers to the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions.

From the bustling city of San José to the serene beaches of Guanacaste, these airports offer extensive services and facilities to enhance your travel experience. Understanding the locations and services offered by these international airports can significantly enhance your travel experience in Costa Rica, regardless of whether you’re arriving for a cultural adventure or a relaxing getaway.

Reference:

Saenz, O. (2024). International Airports of Costa Rica – A simple guide. [online] Olga Sáenz. Available at: https://olgasaenz.com/international-airports-of-costa-rica-a-simple-guide/ [Accessed 27 Feb. 2025].

‌