Perez Zeledon

Perez Zeledon Airport is not merely a regional transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the "Southern Zone" of Costa Rica, offering access to the country's pristine natural treasures. Located in a picturesque valley at the foot of the Talamanca mountain range, this small airfield serves as the ideal starting point for those dreaming of conquering the majestic Mount Chirripó or exploring the region's authentic coffee plantations. Flying here transforms into an adventure in itself: upon approach, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramas of emerald slopes and winding rivers, setting the mood for the entire journey.

Despite its modest size, Perez Zeledon Airport offers a number of undeniable advantages for travellers:

• Strategic Location: The airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre of San Isidro de El General, allowing tourists to be in the midst of the action almost instantly or to begin their transfer to key regional attractions.
• Access to Mount Chirripó: This is the nearest air hub to Chirripó National Park, home to the highest point in Costa Rica. For climbers and trekkers, flying here saves hours of travel by land.
• Scenic Route: Flights to this airport often pass over beautiful mountain landscapes, turning the transfer into an unforgettable excursion.
• Updated Infrastructure: Following recent modernization and the paving of the runway, the airport has become more reliable and safe, accepting flights even in the changeable weather conditions characteristic of the tropics.
• No Queues: Thanks to low passenger traffic, all pre-flight formalities and baggage claims take mere minutes, eliminating the stress typical of large hubs.

Perez Zeledon Airport (IPZ) is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. Most services are provided directly by the airlines. Below are the main contact details and useful information for travellers.

• Official Website: Perez Zeledon Airport does not have its own official website. For information on airport status and flight regulations in Costa Rica, it is recommended to consult the website of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (Dirección General de Aviación Civil) or the websites of airlines operating flights to San Isidro de El General.
• Information Desk Phone: The airport does not have a direct telephone line for inquiries. For all questions related to booking, schedules, and flight status, please contact your airline directly (e.g., Sansa Airlines).
• Airport Address: The airport is located approximately 5 kilometres south of the city centre of San Isidro de El General, Perez Zeledon canton, San Jose province, Costa Rica.
• Email: There is no public email address for contacting the airport administration. It is recommended to use the communication channels of the air carriers.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on social networks. Up-to-date information can be found on the pages of the airlines serving this route.
• Lost Baggage Information: All issues related to lost or damaged baggage are handled by the respective airline. Contact your carrier's support service immediately upon detecting a problem.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support, including assistance for people with disabilities, is provided by the airlines. Please inform them of your needs when booking your ticket.

Perez Zeledon Airport is located in close proximity to the city centre of San Isidro de El General, making the journey there quick and convenient. It is a small domestic airfield primarily serving private and charter flights. You can reach the terminal in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget and preferences.

Public Transport in this region of Costa Rica is mainly represented by buses. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel. Although there may not be a direct route to the airport entrance, many city and suburban buses pass within walking distance of it. The trip will be very inexpensive, but be prepared to walk a little. This option is excellent for economical travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from the city centre will take just 5–10 minutes depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to use official red taxis and ensure the driver turns on the meter (La María), or agree on the price in advance. The cost of the trip will be low due to the short distance. You can also book a transfer through your hotel, which guarantees comfort and a fixed price.

If you are travelling by rental car, the road to the airport will pose no difficulties. This is a great option for those planning to explore the surroundings of San Isidro on their own. Perez Zeledon Airport has parking available. Given the modest size of the airfield, parking here is simple and likely free or very inexpensive. It is suitable both for a short stop to drop off passengers and for leaving the car during your absence.

Perez Zeledon Airport (IPZ) is a small regional airport serving domestic flights. Its layout is as simple and intuitive as possible, making your stay here comfortable and eliminating the stress associated with navigating large aviation hubs.

The airport has just one compact terminal, which simultaneously serves both arriving and departing passengers. Due to the modest size of the building, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key zones — check-in counters, the waiting area, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area — are located in one small room, within walking distance of each other. Consequently, there are no transfers between terminals.

Flight check-in and security screening procedures are very quick, as the airport serves a small number of flights on low-capacity aircraft. Typically, all formalities take no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 45-60 minutes before departure to check in luggage and pass through control without rushing.

The terminal scheme is extremely simple: upon entering the building, you will immediately see the check-in counters. After passing check-in, you enter the general waiting area, from where boarding takes place. The arrivals area is also located here — passengers from a flight enter this same building to collect their luggage. Special navigation signs may be absent as they are unnecessary, since everything is clearly visible.

The history of Perez Zeledon Airport (IATA: IPZ) is, above all, the history of the development and support of the canton of the same name in Costa Rica. Unlike major international hubs, this air harbour does not have an exact founding date recorded in global chronicles. It began its journey as a simple airstrip serving the needs of the local population, private aviation, and agriculture in the city of San Isidro de El General. For a long time, the airport remained a modest facility, yet playing an important role in the transport accessibility of the region.

A key stage in the airport's history was the large-scale modernization completed in 2022. This project completely transformed the facility. The main achievement was the paving of the runway, which is about 800 metres long. In addition, new perimeter fencing was installed, the drainage system was improved, and modern markings were applied. These improvements significantly increased safety levels and allowed flights to be accepted in a more stable mode, opening new prospects for the development of domestic tourism.

Over the years, Perez Zeledon Airport has played and continues to play a critically important social role. It serves as a base for air ambulance aircraft, ensuring the rapid transport of patients from the local hospital to medical centres in the capital. Historically, it was also vital for the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of the region's economy. This air harbour is a vivid example of how a small infrastructure facility can be vital for an entire community.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is one of the main "gateways" for travellers seeking to conquer the highest point in Costa Rica — Mount Chirripó, located in the national park of the same name. Today, after reconstruction, Perez Zeledon Airport does not break records for passenger traffic, but its main value lies in its strategic importance for economic growth, access to emergency assistance, and the tourism potential of the entire southern region of the country.

Perez Zeledon Airport (IPZ) is a small regional airfield serving mainly domestic and private flights. The infrastructure here is quite modest and offers only a basic set of amenities necessary for a short wait before departure. Passengers should plan their trip in advance and take into account that most services are available in the nearest city.

The terminal building has a small waiting area. Opportunities for shopping and dining directly at the airport are extremely limited or non-existent. It is recommended to bring snacks and water with you or to have a meal in advance at one of the numerous cafes and restaurants in the city of San Isidro de El General. Access to Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices may be unstable or unavailable, so it is better to carry a portable charger.

Specialised services such as bank branches, currency exchange points, VIP lounges, conference rooms, and business centres are not provided at Perez Zeledon Airport. All financial transactions, including cash withdrawals, should be carried out in the city. Medical facilities for qualified assistance can also be found there. Only a first aid point may be available at the airport.

There are no separate play areas or mother and child rooms for passengers with children. Travellers with disabilities are strongly advised to contact the airline in advance to arrange necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. There are no hotels on the airport territory, however, a wide selection of accommodation options — from budget guest houses to comfortable hotels — can be found in nearby San Isidro de El General.

When planning a departure from Perez Zeledon Airport (IPZ), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and dining options here are quite limited. Unlike large international hubs, you will not find a wide variety of restaurants and cafes here.

Typically, one small snack bar or cafe operates on the airport grounds. The assortment usually includes basic options for a quick snack: coffee, soft drinks, bottled water, sandwiches, and light snacks. Sometimes you can find local pastries, for example, empanadas (filled pastries), which allow you to get an idea of simple Costa Rican cuisine.

There are no full-service restaurants offering hot meals here. Specialised dietary options, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are likely to be unavailable. The cafe usually operates during hours tied to the flight schedule and is located in the general waiting area before the security checkpoint.

Main Recommendation: If you require a full lunch or dinner, it is best to eat at one of the numerous establishments in the city of San Isidro de El General before arriving at the airport. This will allow you to enjoy the variety of local cuisine without haste and at better prices.

When planning a departure from Perez Zeledon Airport, which serves the city of San Isidro de El General, it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport. For domestic flights within Costa Rica, it is generally sufficient to arrive 1–1.5 hours before departure. Check-in and security procedures here are significantly faster than at major international hubs, making the journey more comfortable and less stressful.

When choosing a seat on the plane, if the opportunity arises, opt for a window seat. Flights on small aircraft in this region are often accompanied by breathtaking views of mountain ranges and lush green valleys. Regarding hand luggage, standard international rules apply here: pay attention to restrictions on carrying liquids (usually up to 100 ml in one container), and also avoid sharp and cutting objects. Check your airline's baggage allowance in advance to avoid extra charges.

Passengers with connections should note that Perez Zeledon Airport mainly serves domestic flights. If you are flying abroad, your transfer will likely be at one of the country's international airports, for example, in San Jose. Customs and border control take place specifically at the international airport of arrival or departure from the country, so you do not need to go through these procedures when flying from San Isidro to another Costa Rican city.

To save time and money, try to check in for your flight online if your airline provides such a service. Also, book your transfer from or to the airport in advance, especially during the high tourist season. Have some cash in local currency (colones) for small expenses, although US dollars are accepted in many places.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the check-in counter or boarding gate. They will provide the most up-to-date information and explain the next steps. In small airports, staff are generally very responsive and ready to help resolve arising issues. Stay calm and keep all necessary documents at hand.