Most of our guests fly into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia (LIR). From there, Playa Junquillal is about an 80 minute drive. Here’s what to expect on the way, plus the tips we give every guest before they land.
How long is the drive?
Plan on about an hour and a half from the airport to La Junglita. Allow extra time if you land late in the day, stop for groceries, or are driving in the rain during green season. We always suggest arriving in daylight on your first trip so you can enjoy the drive and find the gate easily.
The route
From Liberia you head southwest through Guanacaste toward the town of Santa Cruz, then continue toward the coast through 27 de Abril and on to Junquillal. The roads are paved most of the way and the drive takes you past cattle farms, small towns and the hills of the Nicoya Peninsula. A navigation app like Waze works well here and is what most locals use.
Should you rent a car?
Yes, we recommend it. Junquillal is quiet and spread out, which is a big part of its charm, but it also means taxis and rideshares aren’t easy to find. With a car you can get to the beach, Playa Negra and Playa Blanca, the grocery stores in Santa Cruz, and day trips to Tamarindo (about 30 minutes away) on your own schedule. A small SUV gives you more clearance on dirt roads, but you don’t need anything extreme for the drive to the villa.
Tips for driving in Costa Rica
- Costa Ricans drive on the right, like in Canada and the US.
- A valid driver’s licence from home works for visitors staying up to 90 days. Bring your passport too, since rental agencies and police may ask for both.
- Rental quotes online often leave out the mandatory local insurance, so read the fine print before you book.
- Watch for one lane bridges, cyclists and animals on the road, especially near towns.
- Gas stations are full service. Tell the attendant how much you want and you can pay by card or cash.
Stop for groceries on the way
Santa Cruz is the best place to stock up before you arrive. We provide a starter supply of kitchen basics, but most guests like to grab breakfast food, snacks and drinks for the first couple of days so they can settle in by the pool without heading back out.
Arriving at La Junglita
Tierra Pacifica has security at the gate 24 hours a day, so have ID ready when you pull up. Check-in is after 4:00 PM. Valerie, our local manager and host, meets you when you arrive, shows you around the house and gives you your smart lock code. She is on WhatsApp if you have any questions along the way.
Stay at La Junglita
La Junglita is our 3 bedroom private pool villa inside the gated Tierra Pacifica community, about 1.5 miles from Playa Junquillal. It sleeps 8, has A/C in every bedroom, and your stay includes the Club Arbol pools, gym and tennis court. Check availability and book your dates here.