The Liberia airport now serves as a viable option for visitors coming directly to this region. At 217km northwest of San Jose, it lies just 1.5 hours from Sámara by car. It may not have the comforts of gift shops and cocktail lounges, but it certainly beats a five hour ride on a public bus from San Jose. It is reliable and offers Delta, United, and Continental ticket counters. Budget traveler’s beware – bus service is not direct and requires at least two changes. Those who opt to rent a car from the Liberia airport will find tons of options just outside the airport with shuttle services to most cities. Prepare yourself for the same chaos and badgering from local tourist and rental car companies as at the San Jose airport when you walk out of baggage claim.
