Mi Lora Tours Blog

Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport

The Juan Santamaría International Airport is the port of entry into Costa Rica for 85% of international visitors. It’s located just 17 highway miles west of downtown San José near the city of Alajuela, and just 35 miles from the Gulf of Nicoya as the caracara flies (we have no crows).

For window seat people, like me, who like to watch the earth rise to meet your plane, be prepared for some great views as you arrive. Flights from North America almost always fly south to a point almost straight west of the airport, and make a sharp left turn, heading east for the remaining 15 or 20 minutes before landing. If you’re lucky, as you make the turn you’ll get a glimpse of the beaches along the Gulf of Nicoya or the Pacific Ocean and the city of Puntarenas. The final minutes offer views of the Central Volcanic Range on the left and the northernmost wrinkles of the Talamanca Range on the right. The lush green hillsides and small towns that dot the landscape will evoke smiles, curiosity and an unavoidable rush of excitement. Let the adventure begin!