Juan Santamaria International Airport – SJO, San Jose Costa Rica

The SJO-Juan Santamaria International Airport is named after the national hero of Costa Rica who died in 1856 while fighting against the US forces. It was the first and for the longest time – the only international airport serving San Jose, Costa Rica. Today, it stands as the second busiest airport in Central America, serving direct flights to North and South America, Central America, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Best Time to Visit

In 2011, the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) was actually named the 3rd Best Airport in Latin America- Caribbean granted by the Airport Service Quality Awards. The airport’s runway is large enough to accommodate some of the bigger aircrafts in the industry including the Airbus A330 and the Boeing 747. Major airlines operating in the airport include the Copa Airlines, the Avianca, and the Sansa Airlines serviced by two terminals. Notable cities nearby include the San Joaquin de Flores famous for the San Joaquin church built in 1880 and decorated by numerous statues. You can also visit the La Garita district known for their wildlife exhibits.

What to Do & Area Attractions

San Jose, Costa Rica hotels close to the airport include the Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport, which is just a mere 0.5km from the airport, making it practically an on-site hotel. The next closest accommodation is just 0.6km away and is a globally recognized brand, the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton San Jose Airport.

Another major airport in the area is the Tobias Bolanos International Airport (SYQ), which is the location of choice for private flight operations, charter flights, and aviation schools. While it serves general aviation needs of the country, SYQ is second only to the SJO in terms of number of passengers serviced every year.