Costa Rica Airports

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There are currently two international airports in Costa Rica. The largest, Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) in Alajuela, is located within the Central Valley region north of San José. The other airport, Daniel Oduber Airport (LIR) in Liberia, facilitates access to destinations in the northwestern Guanacaste region.

Additionally, many destinations in Costa Rica can be reached by short domestic flights. Familiarizing yourself with the regional geography of Costa Rica's airports can help you take the stress out of planning your late night arrival or early morning departure. By following the destination links below, you can find lodging, activities, and transportation in the areas surrounding these Costa Rican airports.

Destinations

Costa Rica highlights: Costa Rica Airports

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Alajuela & SJO Airport

Alajuela, nicknamed City of the Mangoes, is one of the most important cities in Costa Rica. It is the capital city of the providence bearing its name and is located just 11 miles northwest (17 km) of San Jose. Just outside of town is where you'll find the Juan Santamaria International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria), Costa Rica's principal airport.

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San Jose

"Chepe," as the city is referred to by locals, is the capital city of Costa Rica and a hub for modern Costa Rican culture. It's also where most visitors depart for tours of central Costa Rica's volcanoes and coffee plantations. Before you leave, take a fun-filled tour of the city's monuments and parks, and maybe sample the burgeoning craft beer scene.

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Liberia

Due to excellent facilities and its close proximity to scores of attractions, Liberia is an ideal stopover for many visitors. With the recent opening of the Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport, the once sleepy cowboy town of Liberia is undergoing comprehensive metamorphosis as it transitions from old colonial town to modern-day tourism hub.

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La Fortuna Airport

La Fortuna Airport also known as Aeropuerto Arenal is located in El Tanque. The modest airstrip is located 10 minutes from the town of La Fortuna. Most resorts around the Arenal Volcano are outside of La Fortuna so driving time from the airport to most of the resorts closer to 20-30 minutes.

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Limon

Puerto Limón, or simply Limón, is the heart and soul of the Caribbean coastal province of Limón. This is the region's largest city, with a population of approximately 85,000, including the surrounding districts. The inhabitants are mostly comprised of Afro-Caribbean ancestry, giving the city a completely unique appeal in a country that is over 90 percent mestizo. Although not considered a very touristy city, Puerto Limón is not without its charm.

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El Tanque

El Tanque has a small airstrip 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from downtown La Fortuna, which is right outside of Arenal Volcano National Park. Visitors to La Fortuna often arrive via this airstrip and then take the short drive to their accommodations in La Fortuna.

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Liberia Airport

The Liberia Airport acts as a gateway to exploring the Nicoya Peninsule and northern regions of Costa Rica. There are a number of hotels, restaurants, rental car agencies, and shops around the airport. Staying here before or after a flight makes the travel process smooth and easy.

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Alajuela & SJO Int'l

San Jose

Liberia

La Fortuna Airport

Limon

El Tanque

Liberia Airport

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Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

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