The larger of the two airports, the Juan Santamaria International Airport for a long while was the only airport in Costa Rica. It is served by most US airlines such as Delta, United, American and America West, as well as by many other international airways like Virgin Atlantic, KLM, Iberia, Mexicana, TACA, Air Canada and many more. The central location of this airport is perfect, as from here once can reach almost any part of the country within a span of 6 hours.
Costa Rica’s second international airport, the Daniel Oduber International Airport or the Liberia International Airport, is located in the north of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste province. Situated in the provincial capital Liberia, this modern airport is fast becoming the airport of choice for those travelers interested in relaxing or having some fun on the beautiful sunny beaches of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula. Arriving here means that you can get to Tamarindo or one of the other nearby beaches within an hour. Perfect for those who also wish to travel to the all inclusive Papagayo Gulf, this airport mostly receives international flights from major US carriers only. A small airport, a major overhaul is in the works to accommodate more international flights.
One thing you need to remember when leaving Costa Rica is that there is a US$ 26 departure tax on all international flights exiting the country.