Getting Around in Guanacaste
Guanacaste is known for its wonderful beaches and gorgeous sunny climate. One of the more easily accessible provinces with its own international airport, getting in and out of this region is no problem at all. Home to the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia, many major US and international carriers fly into Guanacaste on a daily basis, making traveling to this part of the country easy and tension-free.
A great way to get around Guanacaste, especially if you are heading out to the coastal areas is to catch a domestic flight to the Tamarindo Airport, the Playa Nosara Airport, the Playa Samara Airport and the Punta Islita Airport. All found along Guanacaste’s golden shores, these airports provide you with easy and convenient access to the countless beaches found in this area. Both Sansa and Nature Air offer daily flights to all four domestic airports.
Another great way to get around Guanacaste is by bus, taxi or rental car. Since the public transportation system in Costa Rica is very good, getting around Guanacaste is no hassle. Do keep in mind thought that the roads in the southern end of the province are usually just dirt tracks and tend to get washed away by the rains.
If you are in Guanacaste for the beaches, surfing or the plethora of watersports found here, your best bet is to head straight to the coast. On the other hand, if you are here to explore the beautiful national parks in the north of the province or the plains in Central Guanacaste, a good idea is to use Liberia as your base camp and tour the province from here.
Map of Guanacaste
From Liberia, the Guanacaste National Park, the Santa Rosa National Park, the Rincon de la Vieja National Park, the Palo Verde National Park and the Lomas de Barbudal Biological Reserve are just a short distance away. If you are in Guanacaste during July, come to Liberia for the Dia de Guanacaste, which celebrates the annexation of the province from Nicaragua. A colorful festival with parades, bullfights, music and folk dancing, it is a must see for those who want to enjoy true Tico culture.
For those looking to escape to a more quiet retreat, head to the expensive but ultra-exclusive Papagayo Gulf, home to the amazing Four Seasons luxury resort. Nearby you will find the beautiful Playas del Coco and tranquil Playa Hermosa. From Tamarindo, you can access almost any beach along Guanacaste’s ‘Gold Coast.’ If you head inwards towards the central area of the Nicoya Peninsula, you will come to the cowboy town of Santa Cruz and the pottery making of Guaitil. Close by is the Parque Nacional Barra Honda, with its incredible underground cave system ideal for those who enjoy spelunking.
