Juan Santamaría International Airport

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is a well-organized and traveler-friendly gateway to Costa Rica. The airport is modern, clean, and easy to navigate, with clear signage in both Spanish and English. Immigration and security were reasonably efficient. There’s a decent selection of dining options, coffee shops, and souvenir stores that give a nice first or last taste of Costa Rican culture—though prices are on the higher side, as expected for an international airport. Seating areas are comfortable with plenty charging plug points, and Wi-Fi was reliable during my visit. Overall, SJO offers a smooth and pleasant airport experience and serves its role as Costa Rica’s main international hub quite well.

Waiting for the shuttles to hotel is the worst area. There is no ventilation so we were inhaling all the fuel fumes from the buses. They need a better and well ventilated place. Otherwise the interior of the airport is nicely laid out and easy to navigate. It is quite a small airport. The domestic terminal is even smaller and is in a separate area. The customs officers are quick and efficient. Tips: do not bring any seashells out of the country!! It is forbidden.

Main entry point of Costa Rica. It was busy at customs with many travelers. It took a while to get out of airport. There are rental car offices just before exiting building. Departure was faster. Gift shops offer better prices before you leave Costa Rica. I recommend getting Britt Coffee products and candies.

Landing was easy and welcoming. Not many in customs so it took about 30 minutes to make it outside without checked bag or carry on, in October. Leaving is even bigger and with ATMs , a few shops, kid area, charging area, plenty of screens and seats. Licor tastings as well as water sources so being your empty bottle! They even had water for pets. Definitely not a bad experience.

Long lines at immigration.. and long lines at customs to send bag through metal detector. Uber available at the airport but there are no signs to find Uber pick up point at the airport. (It is at terminal B on the 2nd floor across the street after coming out of customs)walk through all the hustlers trying to get you in to their car! Total 3rd world experience

Dec 28-2025 It’s a nice small international airport Pros: ——— High security No long line Modern interior designs Clean Good seats Free during Water fountain beside the restrooms Free Drinking water for pets Cons: ——— No water sprayer in side the restrooms

Juan Santamaria International Airport is the primary international gateway serving San José, Costa Rica, and is located in the nearby city of Alajuela. It functions as a central hub for several airlines, providing connections to numerous domestic and international destinations, particularly within North and South America, as well as the Caribbean. The immigration and customs processes were notably lengthy, especially during peak hours. Compared to previous years, the check-in procedures have significantly improved, and security lines now progress more efficiently. The airport also features a variety of retail shops and dining establishments within the terminal. However, the prices at these establishments are considerably higher than outside the airport, making it advisable to purchase souvenirs and snacks elsewhere before your trip.

SJO is solid, fairly well run and fun coffee and chocolate samples. Lounge closes at 8pm so we have to take it down a star. Costa Rica is incredible, Pura Vida!