Car Rental at San Jose Airport

Airport travel guide

Arguably the most popular travel destination in Central America, Costa Rica is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and imposing volcanoes. Although sometimes overlooked for these natural riches, the national capital, San Jose, and the region that surrounds it also offer plenty of excitement and things to see and do. These are four of the most interesting experiences in and around San Jose:

• Gold Museum. Also known as the Pre-Columbian Museum, this cultural institution features in practically every tourism booklet of San Jose, but that is only a testament to how interesting it is. Dedicated to the heritage of the many fascinating indigenous cultures that inhabited the area before the arrival of the Europeans, it has a special focus on their goldwork and jewelry. 
• Jade Museum. If you like the aforementioned Gold Museum, you will no doubt also enjoy this fascinating place. Although the use of jade is most commonly associated with Classical China, it was also very popular with the indigenous Central American aristocracy, as showcased by the many carvings and jewelry on display here. Do keep in mind that the Jade Museum has changed its location fairly recently and while not all the maps have been updated in regard to this change, it can now be found near the Culture Square.
• La Sabana Park. Costa Rica is all about its stunning nature, some of it is easily accessible from the capital – more on that below. But even if you’re short on time, there are ways to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the capital. One such place is La Sabana, a large park often called “the lungs of the city” by the locals. Known for its large lake and mountain views in the distance, La Sabana is also home to several important landmarks, not least the Costa Rican Art Museum.
• Cartago. The former capital of Costa Rica, Cartago has lost some of its political importance, but none of the charm. Home to fascinating colonial architecture, the jewel of which is the Our Lady of the Angels Basilica, the municipality is also home to the ruins of Ujarrás and natural sites like Tapantí National Park. The drive from San Jose to Cartago takes only about 40 minutes.
• Braulio Carrillo National Park. A stunning protected area of high peaks, crater lakes, and tropical forests, Braulio Carillo is only a short drive north of the capital. There are numerous hiking trails in its territory that range in difficulty from relaxing strolls to demanding multi-day adventures. Natives of the park include the solitary eagle, great green macaw, Northern tamandua anteater, and ocelot.

Top international routes

• Quepos
• Cóbano
• Puerto Jiménez
• Liberia
• Panama City
• Villareal
• Guatemala City
• Golfito
• Nosara
• San Salvador

Main airlines

Nature Air, Sansa Airlines, Volaris Costa Rica, Avianca Costa Rica, American Airlines, and Copa Airlines

Terminals

The Main Terminal (M) serves all international flights while Domestic Terminal, also known as Sansa Terminal, serves local flights. You can walk between them in less than five minutes.

Location

San Jose Airport is actually in the city of Alajuela, a suburb of San Jose. The airport is about 20 km (12 mi) west of San Jose city center. Radial Francisco J. Orlich and Route 1 are the main roads connecting the airport to the city.

Most popular types of rental car

• Small cars - from $14 per day
• Large cars - from $16 per day
• Medium cars - from $10 per day
• SUVs - from $17 per day
• Vans - from $42 per day
• Station wagons - from $26 per day
• Premium cars - from $56 per day

Car rental desks

Most are located in the international arrivals area.

Services and facilities

You’ll find many shops, six duty-free outlets, as well as restaurants and bars. There are also ATMs, two currency exchange offices, a Red Cross Station offering medical help, a pharmacy, and spa. There is no luggage storage service

Nearest gas station

A Delta gas station, located near the corner of Route 1/Pan American Highway and Route 3, can be reached in about 12 minutes and is open 24/7. It’s on the way to the city center. There are many other gas stations near San Jose Airport and in San Jose.

Popular one-way rentals

• Malpais (154 km / 95 mi)
• Liberia (199 km / 123 mi)
• Puerto Viejo (83 km / 51 mi)
• Guapiles (82 km / 50 mi)
• Managua (411 km / 255 mi)
• Rivas (310 km / 192 mi)