← Back to San José
Juan Santamaria International Airport Insider Guide
SJOSJO is Costa Rica’s main hub. Compact, busy in peaks, some lounges, easy taxis/shuttles.
🚇
35min
Transit to city
🛂
45min
Immigration
🔒
50min
Security buffer
✅
Leave with 6–10 hours+
Leave the airport?
OK to leave:
6–10h
10h+
🛋️
Lounges
| Area | Lounge | Access | Showers | Good for | Price (paid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main | VIP/PP lounges (e.g., VIP Lounge SJO) | PP/Dragon/Paid | Limited | Snacks/buffet | About $30–50 USD |
One main pay lounge; showers limited.
📝
Traveler notes
- Security/immigration can spike; arrive early.
- Terminal is compact; seating limited at peaks.
🛏️
Sleep / Rest
- Basic seating; lounge better.
🍽️
Food
- Local/fast food options; quality decent for short stays.
🚿
Showers
- Limited/none; check lounge.
🧳
Luggage Storage
- Limited/none; travel light.
🚇
Transit to City
- Taxi/shuttle: 20–40 minutes to San José depending on traffic.
- Buffer: Back at SJO 3h intl.
🔌
Essentials
- SIM/eSIM: Airport kiosks; eSIM cheaper beforehand. ATMs: Decline DCC; pay in USD/CRC via bank. Wi‑Fi: Free.
Planning a layover in San José?
See our timeline calculator, curated experiences, and services.
Explore San José layover →