Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Coto 47 gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from OTR to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at OTR:
First, verify that you can enter Costa Rica — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Coto 47, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CRC is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Coto 47:
Transport to the city and back runs about $8 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $15 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $33 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Coto 47 Airport
Specific locker facilities at OTR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Coto 47 itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Coto 47, here are two things worth checking out:
Coto 47 Town Center Stroll is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Banana Plantation Roadside View is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OTR, you can spend time at OTR Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or try Runway Viewing Point. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Coto 47, local travelers recommend Soda y Restaurante El Ceibo. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurante Doña Carmen is another popular pick.
Back at OTR, OTR Airport Coffee & Snack Bar is the go-to. Airport Beverage & Convenience Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at OTR
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, OTR has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at OTR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Coto 47 itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Costa Rica that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Coto 47 genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.