San Jose City - SJO Airport: Private Minivan Transfer & Pickup

Summary

Private minivan ride from San Jose city hotel to SJO airport

You’ll be picked up right at your San Jose city hotel by a local chauffeur for a private minivan transfer to SJO Airport. Enjoy bottled water, help with your bags, and an easy ride without taxi stress or language barriers. With meet & greet included and everything handled for you, it’s one less thing to worry about—and maybe one more memory you’ll keep from Costa Rica.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little flustered that morning — my phone alarm didn’t go off (classic), so I was still brushing my teeth when the minivan pulled up outside my hotel in San Jose. The driver, Andrés, just smiled and waved through the glass like he’d seen it all before. No rush at all. He waited while I scrambled for my bag and checked under the bed for that one missing sock. It’s funny how travel days always start a bit sideways.

The van itself was spotless inside, cool air already running even though it was barely 7am. Andrés handed me a cold bottle of water and asked if I’d slept well — his English was better than my Spanish, but we managed a mix of both. He pointed out a bakery on the corner where he gets coffee sometimes (“el pan dulce is best here,” he said). The city felt quiet, just the sound of distant horns and someone sweeping outside a shop. I kept thinking how different San Jose looks in the early light, softer somehow.

Traffic wasn’t bad — maybe twenty-five minutes to Juan Santamaría International Airport from downtown, give or take. We chatted about fútbol and weather (he laughed when I tried to say “lluvioso” right), then mostly rode in comfortable silence. The main keyword here is peace of mind; having a private transfer meant no haggling with taxis or worrying about missing my flight. There’s something reassuring about seeing your name on a sign in the lobby when you’re half-awake.

I still remember that last moment before heading into departures — Andrés wished me “buen viaje” and gave this little wave that felt genuinely kind, not just polite. Maybe it’s silly, but those small gestures stick with you after you leave Costa Rica.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Transfer to Airport

• Transfer from hotel to San Jose Airport

Top questions

How long does the private transfer from San Jose City to SJO Airport take?

The drive usually takes around 25–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Is hotel pickup included in this private transfer?

Yes, pickup from your San Jose City Center hotel or accommodation is included.

What type of vehicle is used for the transfer?

A private minivan such as Hyundai H1 or similar is used for up to 6 passengers.

Are airport taxes and fees included in the price?

Yes, all airport taxes and handling charges are included in your booking.

Is bottled water provided during the ride?

Bottled water is provided for each passenger during the transfer.

What if I can’t find my chauffeur at pickup?

You can contact the phone number shown on your voucher if there’s any issue finding your driver.

Can infants travel on this transfer?

Yes, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; booster seats are available for children under 12 if you indicate their age at booking.

How much luggage can I bring?

Each traveler may bring one suitcase and one carry-on bag; oversized items may have restrictions—check ahead if unsure.

What’s included

Your ride includes hotel pickup in San Jose City Center by a professional chauffeur in a private minivan (Hyundai H1 or similar), bottled water for each passenger, meet & greet service at your accommodation, all airport taxes and handling charges, plus up to 15 minutes waiting time at pickup before heading directly to Juan Santamaría International Airport.