You’ll get picked up right at Liberia Airport by a friendly local driver who’ll help with your bags and make sure you’re comfortable in an air-conditioned van with Wi-Fi. The drive to Riu Guanacaste is relaxed — you can stop for snacks or photos if you want — and your driver will check your hotel details before dropping you off. It’s an easy start to your trip you’ll remember long after arrival.
There was this moment right outside Liberia Airport — I’d barely made it through arrivals, still a bit dazed from the flight, when I spotted my name on a sign. The driver (his name was Andrés) grinned like he’d been waiting for an old friend. He took my bag before I could even protest and led me out to the van. The air inside was cool, which felt like such a relief after that sticky heat you get in Guanacaste. I remember the faint smell of citrus — maybe from one of those little air fresheners? Anyway, it made me relax almost instantly.
We started driving toward the Riu Guanacaste Hotel, and I realized how glad I was not to be figuring out buses or haggling with taxis. Andrés chatted in both Spanish and English — he asked if I wanted music or just quiet (I picked music, something soft and local). He offered cold bottled water and pointed out a couple of roadside fruit stands as we passed. At one point he said we could stop if I needed anything — snacks, photos, whatever. Honestly, that flexibility felt pretty rare for an airport transfer in Costa Rica.
The drive took about 45 minutes but didn’t drag at all. There were these moments where the light would shift through the trees and you’d catch a glimpse of distant hills — not dramatic or anything, just quietly beautiful. Right before we pulled up to the hotel, Andrés double-checked my reservation details so there wouldn’t be any confusion at check-in. It’s a small thing but it made me feel looked after in a way I didn’t expect from a simple transfer service. Even now, thinking back on that first ride into Guanacaste, there’s this sense of calm that sticks with me.
The drive usually takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, pickup at Liberia Airport is included with your name on a sign.
Yes, you can ask your driver to stop for snacks, fruit stands, or photos.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available onboard the private vehicle.
Yes, all transportation options are wheelchair accessible.
Specialized infant seats are available upon request.
All drivers are bilingual in Spanish and English.
Bottled water is provided during your ride.
Your private transfer includes pickup at Liberia Airport by a bilingual local driver who’ll help with your luggage; travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with reclining seats; free onboard Wi-Fi; bottled water; all taxes and fees covered; plus flexible stops along the way if you need groceries or want to take photos before arriving at Riu Guanacaste Hotel.
Do you need help planning your next activity?