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

1.4km al suroeste y 350mts sur de la escuela del Tigre, 
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí,
41001​ Heredia, Costa Rica

+506-4052-2300

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
• Hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, light rain jacket
• Sunscreen, bug spray (eco friendly please), waterproof mascara
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Pants and boots/closed toe shoes for horse riding
• Power Adaptor for Costa Rica is type A and B, 120v 60hz
• Flashlight/Torch or phone app to light your way after dark
• Snacks for your room
• Sugary/Salty snacks to share with everyone
• It is customary to tip the maid staff, cowboys and El Lugar staff while staying on-site.  We sugguest you bring cash for this purpose.

Airbnb 

VRBO