Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO) is located in Alajuela, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from downtown San Jose, Costa Rica.

Airport Hotels:
Arriving early, staying after class, or exploring San Jose? Two hotels near SJO airport to consider:

Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
5 km from SJO Airport
approx. $250-300 USD/night

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport 
2 km from SJO Airport
approx $150 USD/night

If you are staying at El Lugar, to arrange transportation email reservation@el-lugar.com

The national currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
US dollars* are accepted in many places, and you may receive your change in colónes.

Check current exchange rates at Xe Currency Exchange currency converter.

ATMs are available and credit cards are widely accepted. Credit cards with “plus” option allow cash withdrawal.

For ease of payment, please let your credit card companies know where and when you will be traveling.

*You may have additional costs if you choose to pay in US Dollars

Generally, a visa is not required to visit Costa Rica. However, requirements and restrictions vary depending on your country of origin.  Details here.

REQUIRE A VISA INVITATION?

For assistance in obtaining a visa Email Customer Service

We will require the following information:
Passport name
Passport number
Address
Phone number
Class dates
Approximate travel dates

Costa Rica customs may ask for the physical address of your destination, here it is:

El Lugar Costa Rica Resort
Heredia, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo
Avenida El Lugar 41001
Costa Rica

+506-8516-2650

What to Bring:
Note:  keep in mind that El Lugar remains under construction in some areas. 

• Light layers, to accommodate for humidity and air conditioning
• Party outfit for the last night
• Hat, swimsuit, light rain jacket, walking shoes
• Sunscreen, bug spray (eco friendly please), waterproof mascara
• Pants and boots/closed toe shoes for horse riding
• Snacks for your room
• Sugary/Salty snacks to share with everyone
• Cash for tips: 
  for shuttle driver directly (do not pay driver for shuttle) USD $TBA
  for your room maids (leave in your room on departure) USD $TBA
  for El Lugar staff (give to Access staff to compile and present) USD $TBA

El Bambú
Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/LuLkBnN7WrmXFyje7

Selva Verde
Location -  https://maps.app.goo.gl/yhmhKYjFyrcxfv3P8

La Quinta
Location -  https://maps.app.goo.gl/5n5XMDCiqtd3sGsJ7

Hacienda la Isla
Location -  https://maps.app.goo.gl/wPUbpFD6EF16FGQK7

Airbnb 

VRBO