Your Guide to Joining Us at El Lugar!

Travel & Transportation


 

Airport

Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO) is located in Alajuela, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from downtown San Jose, Costa Rica.

Airport Hotels:
Arriving early, staying after class, or exploring San Jose? Two hotels near SJO airport to consider:

Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
5 km from SJO Airport
approx. $250-300 USD/night

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport 
2 km from SJO Airport
approx $150 USD/night

If you are staying at El Lugar, to arrange transportation email [email protected]

Currency

The national currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
US dollars* are accepted in many places, and you may receive your change in colónes.

Check current exchange rates at Xe Currency Exchange currency converter.

ATMs are available and credit cards are widely accepted. Credit cards with “plus” option allow cash withdrawal.

For ease of payment, please let your credit card companies know where and when you will be traveling.

*You may have additional costs if you choose to pay in US Dollars

Visa

Generally, a visa is not required to visit Costa Rica. However, requirements and restrictions vary depending on your country of origin.  Details here.

 

EL LUGAR ADDRESS FOR CUSTOMS

Costa Rica customs may ask for the physical address of your destination, here it is:

El Lugar Costa Rica Resort

1.4km al suroeste y 350mts sur de la escuela del Tigre, 

Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí,
41001​ Heredia, Costa Rica

+506-4052-2300

What To Pack


 

The average temperature in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui in January ranges from a high of 92 °F (33.5°C) to a low of 71°F (21.7 °C). Pleasantly warm with brief, sporadic rain showers.

Check the latest weather forecast here


What to Bring:

Note:  keep in mind that El Lugar remains under construction in some areas. 

  • Light layers, to accommodate for humidity and air conditioning
  • Hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, light rain jacket
  • Sunscreen, bug spray (eco friendly please), waterproof mascara
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Pants and boots/closed toe shoes for horse riding
  • Power Adaptor for Costa Rica is type A and B, 120v 60hz
  • Flashlight/Torch or phone app to light your way after dark
  • Snacks for your room
  • Sugary/Salty snacks to share with everyone
  • It is customary to tip the maid staff, cowboys and El Lugar staff while staying on-site.  We sugguest you bring cash for this purpose.

Class Venue


 

El Lugar Costa Rica Resort

1.4 km southwest and 350 meters south of the Tigre school,
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí,
41001​ Heredia, Costa Rica

El Lugar Website
+506-4052-2300

Accomodation


 

El Lugar Costa Rica Resort

Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí,
41001​ Heredia, Costa Rica

Book your room at this beautiful resort today!
Call - +506 8516 2650
Email - [email protected]

*mention that you are attending an Access class*

More Accommodation Possibilities


 

Dining, Food & Beverages


 

 

The main restaurant 'Deseable' is à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Room service menu also available.

All casitas have a small refrigerator for refreshments and food you purchase.

 

Excursions & Adventures


 

Horseback Riding - inquire at El Lugar Reception 

"Everything I ever learned, I learned from my horse." - Gary Douglas

Featuring Costaricense de Paso, the high-stepping Costa Rican saddle horse.
What can you receive from a horse that you haven't imagined is possible?
What can a horse show you about nature and wildlife if you ask them?

Spa Services- inquire at El Lugar Reception 

Indulge your body and senses by relaxing into El Lugar spa treatments. Offering massage, facials and salon beauty care services dedicated to sensorial experiences and serenity. 

Additional on-site adventures include Nature Hikes and Birdwatching.

Adventures- inquire at El Lugar Reception

River Rafting Tour
Chocolate Tour
Cable Car Tour
Cahuita National Park Tour
Motorboat Tour
Coffee Tour
Arenal Volcano Tour