Costa Rica Airports
Costa RicaThere 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.
Costa Rica Highlights
A curated look at the best Costa Rica has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.
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.
Explore DestinationSan 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.
Explore DestinationLiberia
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.
Explore DestinationLa 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.
Explore DestinationLiberia 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.
Explore DestinationEl 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.
Explore DestinationLimon
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.
Explore DestinationFeatured Costa Rica Trips
Browse our handpicked selection of Costa Rica itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.
The Perfect Getaway for Two
This romantic getaway is anything but cliche! Explore the jungles of Arenal and Monteverde, and the beaches of Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo on this sun soaked adventure.
This Was Heaven on Earth
Anywhere is the company we will book our trips again and again. We will recommend YOU to everyone. Costa Rica is a heaven on earth. We are so happy to have had a reliable car to cover so much millage in 8 days and get to experience so many different climate and sceneries in just a short time. It was amazing to be connected to the locals and experience so much nature, culture, beauty, comfort, joy and hospitality in a short time. Thank you Anywhere. You are one of the best finds we have landed in our lives. Your team and your knowledge deserves a gold medal.
An Adventure-Packed Family Reunion
Costa Rica is a great country, everyone is willing to help you.
Caribbean, Mountains, & Pacific Beaches
I have already recommended Anywhere.com to others. Both the trip planning and the trip itself was a pleasant experience. I appreciated the ability to customize the trip to our desires, and for the ability to contact and get Anywhere's assistance when things didn't go as planned.
The Most Memorable Honeymoon Ever
Our first but definitely not last time in Costa Rica. We loved all the areas, people, activities, food, everything. Been gushing about our trip to our family and friends since we got back.
The Ultimate Pura Vida Party
Costa Rica is an unforgettable paradise. 5% of the world's total bio diversity. We can't wait to go back and we'll definitely be booking our next adventures through Anywhere Costa and their networks of amazing companies, guides etc that they work with. Book with them and you'll be so happy that you did.
Costa Rica 101: A Solo Adventure
You don’t have to travel with anyone to see the world — think of all the people you’ll meet along the way. Treat yourself to an epic solo adventure through Costa Rica.
Our Best Adventure Yet
An adventure awaits you, and who better to share it with than your best friends? Volcanoes, rappelling, zip lining, and sailing are just a few of the activities you’ll all enjoy.
A Mother & Son Coast to Coast Road Trip
One suggestion would be to let people know the amount of time to drive from hotel to hotel. If I would have known, I would have stayed longer in fewer hotels.
All-In-One Magical Family Vacation
Best trip ever! Costa Rica is absolutely beautiful and magical. All the drivers were waiting and all the accommodations arranged — Anywhere took care of every detail so we don’t have to stress.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
