A long layover in Puerto Jimenez is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Puerto Jimenez Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave PJM:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Costa Rica. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Puerto Jimenez takes about 30 minutes by Walking / Local Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CRC. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in Puerto Jimenez
For a layover visit to Puerto Jimenez, we’d suggest Puerto Jimenez Waterfront Stroll and Osa Interactive Gardens. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside PJM — 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:
- PJM Terminal Waiting Area & Observation
- Local Souvenir Kiosk (PJM)
Food Worth Trying
For food in Puerto Jimenez, local travelers recommend Restaurant Marisqueria Corcovado. If you have time for a second stop, Rancho de Lelo Eco Lodge & Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at PJM, PJM Airport Snack Counter is the go-to. Soda Yami (Near PJM Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
How to Get Into Puerto Jimenez
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking / Local Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Walking / Local Taxi 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 Puerto Jimenez:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Puerto Jimenez.
Bag Storage Near PJM
Dedicated luggage storage at PJM may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Puerto Jimenez’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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PJM for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Puerto Jimenez or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Need a Nap? Options at PJM
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PJM.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Puerto Jimenez exploring the streets or relaxing at PJM, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.