Costa Rica Airport Transfer Guide (2026) - All Options & Tips
Discover smooth airport transfer options for Costa Rica, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure. Plan your journey with ease and see the best.
Helpful Tips
Download Moovit before you land. The app turns San José's chaotic bus web into simple real-time routes. Locals swear by it. You will too.
Interbus and Gray Line shuttles sell out. Book online early for door-to-door rides between hotspots. No exceptions.
Bus fares are colones only. Drivers reject cards and USD. Keep small bills handy for San José, Manuel Antonio runs.
Uber works in San José. SJO bans pickups at terminals. Walk to the nearby gas station. Drivers meet you there.
Common Scams to Avoid
Taxi drivers at Juan Santamarían International Airport often insist the meter is broken or quote inflated flat rates to San José downtown. Always use the official orange airport taxis from the designated stand inside the terminal, which display fixed zone rates on a printed chart, or pre-book a licensed ride through the kiosks near baggage claim.
Unofficial porters in the arrivals area grab bags from the carousel and then demand excessive tips for carrying them just a few meters to the waiting taxis. Politely but firmly decline assistance unless you specifically requested help, and keep your luggage cart within sight at all times.
Car-rental shuttle drivers sometimes take circuitous routes to off-airport lots to inflate the distance and justify extra fees, or claim the free shuttle only runs to a distant office. Use only the clearly marked shuttles for your pre-booked agency, verify the route with the driver before boarding, and insist on being taken to the location specified in your reservation.
Airport Transfer Services
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