Each year, more than one and a half million travelers land at San Jose International Airport and assume, given its name, they are in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capitol when, in fact , the airport is really just outside Alajuela, Costa Rica’s second largest city.
San Jose is about 10 miles away from the airport.
Since a cab into San Jose costs over $25 (and, of course, the same to get back to the airport) compared against a few bucks for Alajuela, visitors on a budget should give consideration to staying at a Costa Rica hostel in Alajuela either when they arrive or when they are getting ready to go home.
Depending upon where they stay, and what kinds of accommodations they are looking for (dormitory, private room), prices range from about $12-30 a day. From Alajuela, instead of taking an expensive taxi into San Jose, they can simply hop a bus which will get them to the capitol city about as fast as a taxi but for only about a buck, not $25.
A budget minded visitor saving $25 each way between Alajuela can use that extra money to stay two or three nights in a cheap Costa Rica hotel or hostel.
Alajuela Attractions
Now, while the central section of Alajuela isn’t particularly desirable or attractive for visitors, the town sits at the base of Poas Volcano, one of the country’s 7 Natural Wonders. Only a few miles outside of Alajuela, the countryside turns into verdant, lush farms leading to Poas National Park and its volcano. Temperatures cool as the mountain is ascended and tiny roadside shops sell big, sweet strawberries year round.
Another road from Alajuela leads to one of the nation’s premier attractions, La Paz Waterfall Gardens with its splendid waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and hummingbird and butterfly gardens.
There’s also ZOO AVE, a rehab center for Costa Rica wildlife and endangered animals.
Like many of the other hostels, hotels, and resorts in Costa Rica, most Alajuela hostels offer third party tours and packages to places across the country.
Since few (think virtually none) taxi drivers speak English, it’s a wise idea to write down the name and phone number of an Alajuela hostel where you made reservations. Unless you know enough Spanish to speak effectively, have the driver call the hostel for directions.
Finally, never, ever let a cab driver tell you that your hostel is booked solid (particularly if you have reservations). Many cabbies get a commission to redirect tourists (think patsies) to more expensive accommodations.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or new to tropical tourism, a Costa Rica vacation could be right up your alley. 800 miles of beautiful beaches on two oceans and attractions for the entire family.
If you’re a bit budget minded, we suggest beginning or ending your vacation near to the San Jose International Airport. Here’s a great list of fine Alajuela hostels just minutes from the airport.