San Jose airport, officially known as Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center of San Jose. There are several transportation options available to get from San Jose airport to the city center.
How to get from San Jose airport to city center?
San Jose is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. The airport is one of the busiest airports in Central America. In 2010 received 4.3 million passengers, most of them from international flights. Here are all the options on how to get from San Jose airport to the city center:
TAXI: One of the most popular and convenient ways to get from San Jose airport to the city center is by taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and can take you directly to your destination in San Jose.
The fare for a taxi ride from the airport to the city center typically ranges from $25 to $30, depending on traffic conditions.
SHUTTLE BUS: Another option for transportation from the airport to the city center is to take a shuttle bus. Shuttle buses operate on a regular schedule and travel between the airport and San Jose.
The fare for a shuttle bus ride is usually around $10 to $15 per person, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Shuttle from San Jose airport to La Fortuna.
La Fortuna is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica and it’s a gateway to famous Arenal volcano and other hiking trails. Shuttle is a convenient way to get directly from the airport to La Fortuna and can be pre-booked here: 3-Hour Shuttle Service from San Jose Airport to La Fortuna.
From San Jose airport to the city center by bus.
PUBLIC BUS: If you want to travel from San Jose airport to the city center you need to exit the terminal and cross the street toward the parking garage. The local bus stop is outside the airport – on the other side of the multi-story car park which you see when you come out of the arrivals. Then you exit the terminal you need to turn left and follow the sidewalk along the street which goes around. Then turn right and after few meters there’s a bus stop.
Public transportation in Costa Rica.
CHICKEN BUSES (yellow American school buses) are a public transportation in Costa Rica, which is cheap and adventurous. We were backpacking Costa Rica for 3 weeks and it was a wonderful journey!
Bus ticket usually cost around $1/per person.
Always ask a driver if this bus goes to San Jose – because this bus stop is for buses going different directions! The bus costs less than 1 US dollar and takes you directly to downtown. If you’re still far from your place you can take a taxi, but always agree the price before you get in.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links, which are at absolutely no cost to you – I can earn a small commission on sales generated through this website and thanks to that I can share travel guides and inspirations that may help you reach your dream destinations and discover our unique world. I only recommend sites I actually use and have traveled to. Thank you for your support!
