Yes. You can get an Uber from Liberia Airport to any destination in Costa Rica. However, consider these three factors before deciding if a Liberia Airport Shuttle or an Uber is right for you:
1) Price of An Uber From Liberia Airport
Uber was a fresh and inexpensive alternative to the taxi monopoly in Costa Rica. Fares were low, and booking from your phone was (is) more convenient than flagging a taxi- if you saw one. But now, Uber fares are about the same as those for airport transfers. And in some cases, even more.
Let’s take, for example, an Uber from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo. On March 10th, 2025, we requested a ride for two passengers using Uber’s app, and this was the result:
Get A Liberia Airport Shuttle Quote
At the current exchange rate, 61400 CRC (Costa Rican colones) is the equivalent of 121 USD. A comparable Liberia Airport private transfer is 90 – 100 USD. That is 20 to 30 USD more than the average private airport transfer fare for the same route.
We repeated the same experiment with 2 more routes from Liberia Airport, and Uber prices were always more expensive than the equivalent private airport transfer.
2) Types of Vehicles Uber Uses From Liberia Airport
Uber uses mostly small sedan vehicles for transportation from Liberia Airport. That might not be a problem if you are a solo traveler or a couple with small bags. For three or more passengers, however, space can be an issue, not just for comfort but for safety.
Additionally, not all Ubers from Liberia Airport have the same quality and comfort standards. Some Ubers may have air conditioning; others may not. Some Ubers will be brand-new cars in excellent mechanical condition, while others may not. The bottom line is that you will always rely on the algorithm to get a good car.
3) Is Uber From Liberia Airport Legal?
No. Uber is not legal at the Liberia Airport (LIR). But you will not get in trouble if you use it. Traffic police can stop the car and issue a ticket but nothing else. However, you might need to switch vehicles if the police retain the Uber vehicle.
This might be inconvenient, but it is nothing to worry about, legally speaking. In the worst-case scenario, you will need to hire another mode of transportation.
Uber From Liberia Airport FAQs
Where do Ubers usually meet you at Liberia Airport?
Uber drivers prefer to meet at either one of the long-term parking lots. Please coordinate with the Uber driver for the exact location to meet.
Can I get vans with Uber from Liberia Airport?
No, Uber does not offer vans at the Liberia Airport yet. For vans, contact us for a Liberia Airport Shuttle quote.
Will I get in trouble if I use Uber from Liberia Airport?
No, you won’t. But your Uber might get a ticket if stopped at the airport.
Can I use Uber Outside LIR Airport?
Yes, you can. Uber is not as tightly controlled outside the airport. In Tamarindo, for example, Uber is a great way to get around town. Some rural areas, however, might not offer Uber services.
Why is Uber from Liberia Airport not legal?
To transport passengers in Costa Rica, you need a public transportation license. These licenses are only available for vehicles with a capacity of more than 9 passengers. Most Ubers are small sedans and thus not eligible for a public transportation license.
Is an Uber from Liberia Airport cheaper than a taxi?
It depends. In most cases, an Uber from Liberia Airport will be a bit more expensive than an airport taxi. But during low-demand hours and days, you might be able to negotiate a cheaper rate with a local taxi.
How can I get an Uber from Liberia Airport?
To get an Uber from Liberia Airport, open the Uber app and select your destination. You can see the price right away and decide if it works for you. You can always get an airport shuttle quote if the price is not competitive.