Things To Do
in Cariari
Cariari is a residential and commercial district in Heredia Province, just a short drive from San José and the Pacific coast. It blends modern shopping and golf with easy access to forest trails and cloud-forest temperatures. The area is known for the Cariari Country Club and its large green spaces, making it popular with families and expats.
Visitors use Cariari as a convenient base to explore the Central Valley, volcanoes, and nearby nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Cariari. Take some time to settle in and relax after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, soaking in the sights and sounds of Costa Rica.
Spend the afternoon exploring the local area, visiting nearby parks and community shops. Engage with locals and perhaps pick up some fresh produce from a nearby market. Don’t forget to capture the colorful surroundings with your camera!
Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like gallo pinto and casado. Experience the warm atmosphere of Cariari’s nightlife as you take a stroll through the town. Unwind with a refreshing drink while enjoying the sounds of live music.
Join a guided tour at La Selva Biological Station where you can witness the breathtaking biodiversity of Costa Rica. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic wildlife, including monkeys and countless bird species. Remember to take notes to capture your observations in this unique environment.
After your morning exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by lush greenery. Continue your adventure with a hike through various trails that showcase the stunning ecosystem. The natural beauty is invigorating, and you'll find yourself mesmerized by the sights and sounds around you.
Return to Cariari and relax at your hotel, reflecting on your day of discovery. Consider dining at a different local restaurant to experience a new culinary delight. Conclude your evening with a stroll under the stars, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-110 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local bus fare (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to San José with easy access to urban amenities
- Green spaces, golf, and outdoor recreation nearby
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Good base for day trips to volcanoes and cloud forests
- Nightlife is modest in Cariari; more options require trips to the city
- Many attractions are spread out; having a car helps
- Prices can be higher in expat-oriented areas and hotels
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pura vida" - Pura vida (a common greeting/thank you)
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Cariari
Visit one of these nice places.
Public-facing viewpoints around the golf course offer wide-angle shots of green fairways and water features, especially during sunrise.
Elevated public vantage points along routes near Heredia provide sweeping views of the Central Valley on clear days.
Historic plaza with colonial architecture and street life—great for candid portraits and architectural shots.
Colorful streets and local murals provide vibrant, everyday photography opportunities in and around Cariari.
Food in Cariari
Cariari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and beans fried together, usually served with eggs, plantains, and sour cream. A Costa Rican breakfast staple found in most diners and cafés.
Must-Try!
A generous plate of rice, beans, plantains, a protein (beef, chicken, pork, or fish), and a small salad. Common in casual eateries across Heredia and Cariari.
Rich black bean soup often served with hard-boiled eggs and tortilla chips or rice on the side.
A lively combination of fried pork, beans, rice, avocado, and pico de gallo; popular as a shareable option in casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, spices, ready-to-eat snacks, juice stands, and local specialties.
Casual stalls and carts offering empanadas, patacones, fresh fruit cups, and other quick Costa Rican bites; great for a midday bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; a polite greeting such as 'Buenos días' or 'Pura vida' goes a long way.
Pura vida is a versatile expression used for hello, goodbye, or to express appreciation; use it to convey warmth in conversations.
Costa Ricans value cordial, respectful conversation and modest body language; avoid loud or confrontational tones in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cariari
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% gratuity may be included; if not, leaving a 5–10% tip for good service is common. Taxis and rideshares generally do not require tips, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Cash (Costa Rican colón or USD) is widely accepted in markets and casual eateries. Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist spots; ATMs are widespread in the area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with long, sunny days and low rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and city strolls, though afternoons can be hot; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush greenery. Best for nature treks with flexible plans; mornings are often drier, but trails can be slick after rain.
Cariari at Night
Hiking in Cariari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic crater views with accessible trails and interpretive stops; a popular day trip from Cariari.
Lush cloud forest setting with temperate trails and scenic overlooks, ideal for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Cariari by plane.
Costa Rica’s primary international gateway, located about 20-40 minutes from Cariari depending on traffic; frequent domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, professionals, and students; a mix of longstanding residents and newcomers from other regions.
A growing community drawn to the Central Valley’s climate, services, and access to nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across the country; local leagues and informal games occur in parks and community fields.
The Cariari area is known for its golf courses, including the Cariari Country Club, which draws enthusiasts from the region.
While Cariari itself is inland, the Pacific coast within a couple of hours offers surfing options for day trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cariari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find fresh fruit, vegetables, beans, rice, and salads across mercados and cafés. Look for casados with beans and plantains or request veggie-focused bowls; inform staff about dairy or egg preferences if needed.