As Costa Rica gears up for its high tourist season from late November through April, Juan Santamaría International Airport (Costa Rica SJO Airport ) stands ready to welcome travelers eager to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich biodiversity.
Located just outside the capital city of San José, Juan Santamaría International Airport (Costa Rica SJO Airport) serves as the primary international gateway for tourists heading to popular destinations such as Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, Liberia, and the South Caribbean region.
Preparing for High Season at SJO Airport
Aeris, the operator of Costa Rica SJO International Airport, has implemented a comprehensive plan to manage the anticipated surge in visitors. With over 1,600 additional commercial flights scheduled compared to last year, SJO is enhancing its infrastructure and services to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Álvaro Arguedas, Operations Manager at Aeris, emphasizes the airport’s commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction: “We are closely coordinating with government agencies to ensure we have the necessary resources to meet this demand.”
To facilitate quicker transit times, SJO International Airport plans to install automated kiosks that will guide visitors through the terminal, streamlining check-in processes and significantly reducing congestion during peak hours.
Security improvements include increasing the number of non-intrusive scanners to expedite passenger checks, ensuring a more efficient arrival experience.
SJO Airport Arrival Procedure
Arriving in Costa Rica SJO Airport
After landing at Costa Rica’s SJO international airport, you’ll walk through a series of hallways before lining up for immigration. Depending on your gate, you may need to go down stairs or escalators to reach the lower level of the airport, but an elevator is also available for those who need assistance.
Note: If you’re connecting to another flight, you’ll be directed to a separate area with a different process to ensure a smooth transition.
Immigration
The immigration line at the International SJO Costa Rica Airport can be notoriously long, sometimes taking up to an hour, while at other times, it may only take around 20 minutes.
Once at the front, an immigration official will ask for your passport and onward travel documents. As a foreigner, you can receive a maximum 180-day tourist visa, so be prepared to show proof of your exit within that timeframe.
After processing, the official will stamp your passport and note the duration of your visa. Always double-check this number before proceeding to avoid any issues.
Priority Line: If you’re traveling with young children or have mobility issues, look for airport staff who can help you access a priority line for faster processing.
Baggage Claim and Duty-Free Shops
After immigration, your next stop is baggage claim. On the way, you’ll pass a duty-free shop and a money exchange desk. Note that there’s a smaller duty-free shop closer to baggage claim, which is often less busy.
In SJO Costa Rica Airport, duty-free prices for items like wine and alcohol can be quite favorable, so consider stopping here if you plan to purchase these items during your trip.
The currency in Costa Rica, the Costa Rican colón, can fluctuate frequently due to various economic factors, which is why exchange booths may offer varying rates. It’s often advisable to wait for a bank to exchange your money, as they typically provide more favorable rates and lower fees.
If you feel the need to exchange cash, my recommendation would be to limit the amount to a maximum of $50 to colones. In tourist areas, you’ll find that U.S. dollars are widely accepted, so you might not encounter any issues using them for purchases. This approach allows you to minimize losses from unfavorable exchange rates while still having access to local currency when necessary.
In the baggage claim area, you’ll find circular conveyor belts for your luggage, with free carts available nearby. Porters are also on hand to assist with your bags for tips. (The tip goes from $1 to $2 per bag)
Cell Phone SIM Card
Purchasing a SIM card at Costa Rica SJO Airport can be tricky. While a Kolbi desk (the largest local provider) previously operated near baggage claim, it has since closed.
You may find a Claro desk, another local provider, but availability can vary.
If you can’t find a SIM card at SJO Costa Rica Airport, you can easily purchase one at a retail store after you leave—just search “Kolbi” on Google Maps for nearby locations.
Kolbi is a state company and the one with more signal coverage. Although Tigo, Claro and Moviestar are quite efficient too.
Customs
After collecting your luggage, the final step is customs. Unless you’re declaring a large sum of money, traveling with animals, or carrying agricultural products, you won’t need to fill out a customs form.
At the customs checkpoint, your luggage will go through a scanner.
Customs officials typically focus on the monitor and may not engage unless they see something unusual.
Exiting Costa Rica SJO Airport
Once you clear customs, it’s a short walk to the exit doors of SJO Costa Rica Airport.
Before you exit, you’ll find rental car desks on the left and a taxi representative on the right. The area outside SJO Airport has been redesigned for better flow, making it less chaotic than before. However, it can still be busy, so be prepared for some activity as you exit.
Transportation Choices from Costa Rica SJO Airport
Taxis: readily available and convenient for direct transfers. Official airport taxis are orange with a yellow medallion, ensuring you choose a licensed service.
Rental Cars: Several rental offices are located nearby; it’s recommended to reserve in advance for the best options.
Public Buses: budget-friendly but can be uncomfortable and time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the routes.
Ubers: Available around the airport for a more comfortable ride, providing flexibility and convenience.
Private Transfers: Highly recommended for convenience unless your hotel offers a shuttle service, ensuring a stress-free journey to your destination.
Special Assistance Services at SJO Airport
For passengers requiring special assistance, SJO Airport offers services such as authorized porters, wheelchairs, and lifts. AERIS personnel are available at information booths to guide passengers through the airport, ensuring everyone has a comfortable experience.
Baggage Protection Services
To safeguard your belongings, consider using Secure Wrap, a leading baggage protection service. Their services can provide peace of mind as you travel through SJO Airport and beyond, ensuring your luggage is secure during your adventures.
Parking at SJO Airport
If you require parking service, SJO Airport has parking for approximately 400 vehicles on two levels, operating 24/7. The upper level (uncovered) is recommended for departing passengers, while the lower level (covered) is for arriving passengers. Facilities for people with reduced mobility are available, including ramps and elevators.
Know What to Do in Case of Long Layovers
Passengers whose connection at SJO Airport exceeds 6 hours may leave the International Terminal, complying with the documentation required by the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (General Directorate of Immigration and Foreigners).
For more specific information about transit visas, it is advisable to consult with your airline.
In Case of Lost Baggage
If your baggage is lost during your flight, immediately contact the customer service department of the airline that operated your last flight.
They will guide you through the necessary steps to locate your luggage.
Carry-On Baggage Restrictions
Be aware of items that have restrictions for transport in carry-on baggage to avoid complications at security. Familiarize yourself with TSA regulations or your airline’s guidelines to ensure a smooth passage through security checks.
Key Destinations from SJO Costa Rica Airport
After navigating SJO Airport, the Central Valley offers a wealth of attractions. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:
Approximately 3 hours from SJO Airport, it’s best to travel during daylight hours due to fog and winding roads.
Arenal Volcano, well-known for its stunning cone shape and encircled by verdant rainforests and hot springs, is a top destination for both adventurers and nature lovers. It’s crucial to plan your trip during daylight hours to avoid the risks associated with nighttime travel, especially if you plan to hike or explore the area.
About 3 hours away, this destination is perfect for stunning beaches and national parks.
Known for its beautiful national park, Manuel Antonio is a must-visit for its stunning beaches and diverse wildlife. The journey from SJO Airport takes about 2.5 hours, making it a great option for a day trip or longer stay. Enjoy hiking trails, pristine beaches, and the chance to spot monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species.
Liberia
Located about 5 hours from SJO Airport, Liberia serves as a great base for exploring the Guanacaste region.
As the capital of Guanacaste, Liberia is a gateway to some of Costa Rica’s best beaches and national parks. With a drive of approximately 5 hours from SJO Airport, it’s an ideal base for exploring the northern Pacific region.
Don’t miss the chance to visit nearby attractions like Rincon de la Vieja National Park and the stunning beaches of Playa del Coco.
Expect a journey of around 4-5 hours, depending on your exact destination, with beautiful coastal views along the way.
This area, known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, is about 4 to 5 hours from SJO Airport. Destinations like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita offer a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for snorkeling, surfing, and experiencing the rich Afro-Caribbean culture.
Conclusion:
As Juan Santamaría International Airport prepares for the busy high season, travelers can look forward to a seamless arrival experience.
With improved facilities and services, SJO Airport is more than just a transit point; it’s the gateway to an adventure-filled vacation in Costa Rica. By planning ahead and utilizing the available resources, such as transportation options and local tour operators, you can maximize your time exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of this beautiful country.
So pack your bags, keep these SJO Airport travel essentials in mind, and get ready to experience the wonders of Costa Rica, starting from the moment you land at SJO Airport!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me via WhatsApp in this website
References:
Bermeo, A. (2024). Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría. Retrieved November 8, 2024, from Sjoairport.com website: https://www.sjoairport.com/?lang=en
Times, T. (2024, November 7). Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaria Airport Gears Up for High Season. Retrieved November 8, 2024, from The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate website: https://ticotimes.net/2024/11/07/costa-ricas-juan-santamaria-airport-gears-up-for-high-season
Disclaimer: Copyright protects all of the content and text provided here. Any copying or reproduction of this material is strictly prohibited without prior written permission. For permission requests, please contact the author at writer@olgasaenz.com. Thank you for your understanding.
