San Jose Santamaria Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for San Jose Santamaria Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at San Jose Santamaria Airport (SJO), don't worry. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top 5 layover ideas that you can do within 12 hours.

1. Explore the Local Cuisine

Take advantage of your layover by sampling the local cuisine. San Jose Santamaria Airport boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can indulge in traditional Costa Rican food. Try a 'casado', a typical Costa Rican dish that consists of rice, beans, salad, and a choice of meat. Or, if you're in the mood for something lighter, enjoy a 'gallo pinto', a traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans.

2. Visit the Souvenir Shops

San Jose Santamaria Airport is home to several souvenir shops where you can find unique Costa Rican items. From coffee and chocolates to handicrafts and traditional costumes, these shops offer a wide range of products that you can take home as a memento of your layover.

3. Relax at the Airport Lounge

If you're looking for a quiet place to rest and recharge, head to one of the airport lounges. These lounges offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of drinks and snacks. Some even provide shower facilities, perfect for freshening up during a long layover.

4. Take a City Tour

If your layover is long enough, consider taking a city tour. Many tour companies offer short, half-day tours that allow you to explore the highlights of San Jose, including the National Theatre, the Gold Museum, and the Central Market. Remember to check the tour times and the duration to ensure you're back at the airport in time for your next flight.

5. Enjoy the Airport's Art Exhibits

Last but not least, don't forget to check out the airport's art exhibits. San Jose Santamaria Airport regularly hosts exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists. This is a great way to get a taste of Costa Rica's vibrant art scene without leaving the airport.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through SJO Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of SJO's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on San Jose Santamaria airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near SJO to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover at San Jose Santamaria Airport extends beyond 12 hours, you have the opportunity to explore some of the nearby attractions. Here are some activities you can do within a 12 to 48-hour layover.

1. Visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Just over an hour's drive from the airport, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens offers a stunning natural retreat. Here, you'll find a series of beautiful waterfalls, a butterfly observatory, a hummingbird garden, and even a wildlife rescue center. It's a great way to experience Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

2. Explore the Poas Volcano National Park

Another great outdoor adventure is a trip to the Poas Volcano National Park. Located about an hour and a half from the airport, this park is home to one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Costa Rica. The park also features a beautiful cloud forest and a stunning crater lake, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

3. Discover the Town of Sarchi

If you're interested in Costa Rican culture, consider a visit to the town of Sarchi, known for its traditional handicrafts. It's about an hour's drive from the airport. Here, you can watch local artisans at work, creating beautiful wooden furniture and colorful oxcarts, a symbol of Costa Rican tradition.

4. Tour the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation

Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, and a visit to the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation allows you to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Located just 45 minutes from the airport, the plantation offers guided tours that include coffee tasting.

5. Relax at the Ojo de Agua Spa Thermal Center

If you're looking for relaxation, head to the Ojo de Agua Spa Thermal Center. About an hour from the airport, this wellness center offers thermal pools, massages, and other spa treatments, all in a beautiful natural setting. It's the perfect place to unwind before your next flight.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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SJO Layover Ideas San Jose Santamaria Airport Layover Guide