5-Day Family Adventure: Outdoor and Sightseeing in San Jose, Costa Rica

San Jose, Costa Rica

5 days

City scape
Bronze sculpture. Monument to Leon Cortes.
Los Presentes sculpture of Peasant farmers in front of a bank
National Stadium of Costa Rica
National Theatre of Costa Rica

About San Jose, Costa Rica

Experience the vibrant heart of Costa Rica in San Jose, a city that beautifully blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. As the capital city, it offers a variety of attractions, from the bustling Central Market to the historic National Theatre. Explore the city's numerous museums, like the Gold Museum, showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts, and the Jade Museum, home to the largest collection of jade in America. Immerse yourself in the local culture by savoring traditional cuisine at the city's many restaurants. Venture outside the city to discover the country's stunning natural beauty, including the Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens. San Jose, a city of contrasts, offers a unique blend of urban life and natural wonders, making it a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City and its History

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the La Sabana Metropolitan Park. This urban park is the perfect place for a morning jog or a leisurely walk. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the fresh air.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Try the national dish, 'casado', which consists of rice, beans, salad, a choice of meat, and fried plantains.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Costa Rica's history and culture, from pre-Columbian times to the present day.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'gallo pinto', a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and beans.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll around the city center. The streets are safe and well-lit, and there are plenty of shops and cafes to explore.

Morning

Visit the Irazu Volcano National Park. This park is home to the Irazu Volcano, the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'ceviche', a popular Costa Rican dish made with fresh seafood.

Afternoon

Visit the Lankester Botanical Garden. This garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including a large collection of orchids.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'arroz con pollo', a popular Costa Rican dish made with rice and chicken.

Evening

Take a night tour of the city. This is a great way to see the city's landmarks illuminated against the night sky.

Morning

Visit the Poas Volcano National Park. This park is home to the Poas Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica. Enjoy the stunning views from the lookout points.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'tamales', a traditional Costa Rican dish made with corn dough and filled with meat, cheese, or fruits.

Afternoon

Visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. This park features a series of stunning waterfalls, as well as a butterfly observatory and a hummingbird garden.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'patacones', a popular Costa Rican dish made with fried plantains.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll around the city center. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and explore the local shops and cafes.

Morning

Visit the Tortuguero National Park. This park is famous for its sea turtle nesting sites. If you're lucky, you might even get to see a turtle laying eggs.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'chifrijo', a popular Costa Rican dish made with rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo.

Afternoon

Take a boat tour of the Tortuguero Canals. These canals are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'casado', a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice, beans, salad, a choice of meat, and fried plantains.

Evening

Take a night tour of the city. This is a great way to see the city's landmarks illuminated against the night sky.

Morning

Visit the Manuel Antonio National Park. This park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and a wide variety of birds. Enjoy the stunning views from the lookout points.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'gallo pinto', a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and beans.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the beach. The beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'ceviche', a popular Costa Rican dish made with fresh seafood.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll around the city center. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and explore the local shops and cafes.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

La Sabana Metropolitan Park

1
La Sabana Metropolitan Park

A large urban park featuring a lake, sports facilities, and the Costa Rican Art Museum.

Parks
Sports
Cultural Experiences
National Museum of Costa Rica

2
National Museum of Costa Rica

This museum offers a look into Costa Rica's history from pre-Columbian times to the present, with exhibits on archaeology, art, and natural history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Irazu Volcano National Park

3
Irazu Volcano National Park

A national park featuring the highest active volcano in Costa Rica, offering stunning views of the crater and surrounding landscape.

Parks
Attractions
Tours
Lankester Botanical Garden

4
Lankester Botanical Garden

A garden dedicated to the preservation and display of tropical flora, with a special emphasis on orchids.

Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Poas Volcano National Park

5
Poas Volcano National Park

A national park that's home to one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Costa Rica.

Parks
Attractions
Tours
La Paz Waterfall Gardens

6
La Paz Waterfall Gardens

A wildlife refuge and nature park with a series of spectacular waterfalls.

Parks
Gardens
Tours
Tortuguero National Park

7
Tortuguero National Park

Known for its rich biodiversity, Tortuguero National Park is a popular ecotourism destination. It features a network of navigable canals and is a nesting ground for sea turtles.

Parks
Attractions
Tours
Tortuguero Canals

8
Tortuguero Canals

The Tortuguero Canals are a series of natural and man-made waterways used for transportation and exploration in the Tortuguero National Park.

Attractions
Tours
Manuel Antonio National Park

9
Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is a small national park in the Central Pacific Conservation Area. It is well known for its beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

Parks
Attractions
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Gallo Pinto

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made from rice and black beans, often served with eggs, cheese, and fried plantains. It's a staple food in San Jose and a must-try for any visitor.

Casado

Casado

A typical Costa Rican lunch or dinner dish that includes rice, beans, salad, a protein (like chicken, beef, or fish), and a side of fried plantains. It's a common meal in San Jose and showcases the country's agricultural richness.

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef stew that's popular in San Jose. It's made with beef, potatoes, corn, yucca, and other vegetables. It's a comforting dish that reflects the country's farming traditions.

Chifrijo

A popular appetizer in San Jose, made with layers of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo, topped with tortilla chips. It's a great introduction to Costa Rican flavors.

Tamales

Tamales

A traditional holiday food in Costa Rica, made from masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheese, fruits, and other fillings, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. It's a festive dish that's deeply rooted in Costa Rican culture.

Sopa Negra

A black bean soup that's a staple in Costa Rican cuisine. It's often served with a poached egg and tortillas. It's a simple, nutritious dish that's popular in San Jose.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

A popular dish in San Jose made with rice and chicken, mixed with vegetables and seasoned with achiote. It's a comforting, flavorful dish that's a favorite among locals.

Empanadas

Empanadas

A popular snack in Costa Rica, made from corn or flour dough filled with meats, cheese, or fruits, then fried or baked. It's a versatile food that can be found throughout San Jose.

Ceviche Tico

A Costa Rican version of ceviche, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with diced vegetables. It's a refreshing dish that showcases Costa Rica's abundant seafood.

Café Chorreado

A traditional Costa Rican coffee brewing method that results in a strong, flavorful cup of coffee. It's a must-try for coffee lovers visiting San Jose.

Refrescos Naturales

Natural fruit drinks made with fresh local fruits, water or milk, and sugar. They're a refreshing way to enjoy Costa Rica's tropical fruits.

Guaro Sour

A popular cocktail in Costa Rica, made with guaro (a local liquor), lime juice, and sugar. It's a refreshing drink that's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit San Jose, Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to April. This period is often referred to as the "high season" due to its pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring the city's attractions and engaging in outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a less crowded time, the months of May to November, known as the "green season," can also be a good choice, as you can enjoy the lush landscapes and fewer tourists, despite the occasional rain showers.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 15

Mon

Battle of Rivas

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 29

Mon

Annexation of Guanacaste

August 2

Fri

Our Lady of Los Ángeles

August 19

Mon

Mother's Day

September 15

Sun

Independence Day

December 1

Sun

Day of Abolition of the Army

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Public buses are a common way to get around in San Jose. They are frequent, cover most parts of the city, and are relatively easy to navigate. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis are widely available throughout San Jose. They are metered, so you can be sure of the fare before you start your journey. It's a good option for direct and convenient travel.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in San Jose. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps on your smartphone.

If you're comfortable driving in a foreign country, you can rent a car. This gives you the freedom to explore San Jose at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center.

San Jose has a small train network that connects some parts of the city. It's not as extensive as the bus network, but it can be a faster option during peak traffic hours.

San Jose is becoming more bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes in some parts of the city. Renting a bike can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Many of San Jose's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown area. Walking can be a pleasant way to see the city, but be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Private shuttles are often used for longer distances, such as airport transfers or trips to tourist attractions outside of the city. They can be booked in advance and offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₡ CRC

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about San Jose, Costa Rica as a first time visitor

1

San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica and is the cultural, economic, and political center of the country.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Costa Rican colón, but US dollars are widely accepted.

4

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

The climate is tropical and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 63°F (17°C) to 82°F (28°C).

6

The rainy season is from May to November, so pack accordingly if you plan to visit during these months.

7

Tipping is not customary in Costa Rica, but it is appreciated. A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills.

8

Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are also widely available.

9

Costa Rica is in the Central Standard Time zone, and they do not observe daylight saving time.

10

The water in San Jose is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.

11

Costa Rica has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for emergencies.

12

San Jose has a high crime rate compared to other Costa Rican cities. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

13

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

14

Traditional Costa Rican food is a blend of Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences. Try the national dish, gallo pinto, a mixture of rice and beans.

15

San Jose has a strict smoking ban in public places, including bars and restaurants.

16

The city is eco-conscious and has many initiatives to reduce pollution and waste. Try to respect this by minimizing your environmental impact.

17

San Jose has a mix of modern and colonial architecture. Be sure to explore the city's historic neighborhoods.

18

Costa Rica has a 13% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services.

19

Public restrooms are not always readily available, and when they are, you may need to pay a small fee to use them.

20

Costa Ricans, or 'Ticos' as they are locally known, are generally friendly and welcoming to tourists.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Habla inglés?

Ab-la in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mi-da

When looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gua

When asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

When ordering a beer

Coffee

Café

Ca-fe

When ordering a coffee

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

La kwen-ta, por fa-vor

When asking for the bill at a restaurant

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

When asking the price of something

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Sleepwear

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Contact lenses and solution

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop and charger

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader

  • Travel guide and map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Tissues and wet wipes

Weather Conditions

When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, it's important to remember that the city experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a wet season and a dry season. The dry season, often referred to as the high season for tourism, typically runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect average daytime temperatures to hover around 75°F (24°C), making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and exploration. Nights can be a bit cooler, so packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable. The wet season, or green season, extends from May to November. During this period, you can expect frequent rain showers, usually in the afternoon. The average temperature during the wet season is around 73°F (23°C). Despite the rain, the mornings are often sunny and lush, and the rainforests are at their most vibrant. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly. Also, don't forget your sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be quite strong, even during the rainy season. Lastly, if you plan to visit the mountains or volcanoes around San Jose, remember that temperatures can drop significantly, so pack accordingly. In summary, San Jose, Costa Rica offers a warm tropical climate that can be enjoyed year-round, with the right preparation and packing.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

30° / 18°

January is a dry month in San Jose, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

February

30° / 18°

February continues the dry season with temperatures similar to January. It's perfect for exploring the city and nearby attractions.

March

31° / 18°

March is the hottest month in San Jose, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C. It's a great time to visit the beaches.

April

31° / 18°

April sees the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. However, the weather is still warm and suitable for sightseeing.

May

30° / 18°

May marks the start of the rainy season, but the showers are usually in the afternoon. Mornings are still sunny and warm.

June

29° / 18°

June is in the middle of the rainy season, but the rain brings out the lush greenery of the city. It's a great time for nature lovers.

July

29° / 18°

July is similar to June, with afternoon showers and warm temperatures. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions.

August

29° / 18°

August continues the rainy season, but the city is less crowded. It's a great time to enjoy the city's culture and cuisine.

September

28° / 17°

September is the wettest month in San Jose. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

October

28° / 17°

October continues the rainy season, but the city is less crowded. It's a great time to enjoy the city's culture and cuisine.

November

29° / 18°

November sees the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season. The weather is warm and suitable for sightseeing.

December

30° / 18°

December is a dry month in San Jose, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that San Jose is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica?

1 of 10

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