If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica's stunning Guanacaste province, flying into Liberia International Airport (LIR, also known as Guanacaste Airport) is your most convenient option. This airport is located close to the region's best beaches and attractions. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about LIR, from arrival procedures to transportation options, making your journey a breeze.
LIR offers a significant advantage: its strategic location. It's just 7 miles from Liberia city and within easy reach of popular beach towns like Coco, Hermosa, Tamarindo, and more. This means you'll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the sunshine! Additionally, LIR is less crowded than the main San Jose airport (SJO), resulting in shorter wait times and a smoother arrival experience. While smaller than SJO, it still offers the essentials and is constantly expanding.
Inside LIR, you'll find souvenir shops, a jewelry store, an art gallery, and of course, a duty-free shop for alcohol and other items. To grab a bite, there's a cafe, bakery, ice cream stand, a small food court, and a couple of restaurants. WiFi and charging stations keep you connected and entertained. Additionally, there is a nice airport lounge with everything you’d expect.
The arrival process is straightforward. First, you'll proceed through immigration, where you'll need to provide your passport, occupation details, information about your stay in Costa Rica, and proof of your onward flight. Next, you'll collect your luggage at baggage claim and go through a quick customs scan. Once you exit the airport, you'll easily find your tour company, hotel shuttle, car rental agency, or pre-arranged driver waiting for you just outside the doors.
LIR has an open-air parking lot without any covered sections or facilities. While there are some designated free parking zones for picking up or dropping off passengers, many people leave their cars here long-term at their own risk due to the heat and lack of security.
Private Shuttles: The most comfortable choice, with door-to-door service. Locate your driver (holding a sign with your name) just outside the airport exit. Drivers are not permitted to enter the airport but it will be easy to find them. Your driver will have a sign with your name on it and will meet you just outside the airport. If you don't see your driver, scan the area again, as it is all but certain they are there. If you still can't find your driver and it is between 7 am - 9 pm, call our office (US phones, toll-free at 1-866-853-9426 ext.1) or locally at 2694-0400 ext.1. If it is after these hours, call our after-hours cellphone number, 8703-9142.
Shared Shuttles: These vans will drop you off at the Garden Inn, which requires a short taxi ride to reach from the airport.
Taxis: Official orange airport taxis are always available but can be more expensive than shuttles.
Ride-Shares: Uber and Didi are not consistently reliable at LIR due to regulations for transportation tourists.
Car Rentals: You'll find a few car rental desks inside the baggage claim area but most rental car companies will meet you just outside of the airport and the representative will either have a sign with your name on it or a sign with the company’s name on it (check your voucher for your company). Most companies provide shuttle service to their offices nearby. If you don't see your agent, scan the area again, as it is all but certain they are there. If you still can't find your driver and it is between 7 am - 9 pm, call our office (US phones, toll-free at 1-866-853-9426 ext.1) or locally at 2694-0400 ext.1. If it is after these hours, call our after-hours cellphone number, 8703-9142.
If you need a place to stay near the airport, the Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn are just minutes away and offer free airport shuttles. For a true vacation feel, consider staying in charming Playa Hermosa, just a 25-minute drive from LIR.
Now that you know the ins and outs of Liberia International Airport, you're ready to start exploring the wonders of Guanacaste. Enjoy the beaches, wildlife encounters, and the warm 'pura vida' spirit!
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