Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Los Chiles. Los Chiles Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside LSL
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at LSL:
First, verify that you can enter Costa Rica — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Walking takes about 30 minutes into Los Chiles, 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.
Getting to Los Chiles from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Walking | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Walking 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Los Chiles:
Transport to the city and back runs about $7 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $14 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $31 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Los Chiles, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at LSL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Los Chiles’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Exploring Los Chiles on a Layover
If you head into Los Chiles, here are two things worth checking out:
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge River Tour is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Parque Central de Los Chiles is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Los Chiles.
If you’d rather stay inside LSL — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Quiet Waiting Area
- Runway Viewpoint
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Los Chiles: Restaurante La Pista and Soda La Finca. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for LSL Airport Mini-Mart & Cafe or Terminal Grab-and-Go. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LSL 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 LSL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Los Chiles 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
A layover in Los Chiles doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from LSL, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.