Things To Do
in Pozos

Pozos is a residential district in the municipality of Santa Ana, just west of San José, Costa Rica. It blends quiet suburban neighborhoods with a growing commercial corridor of shops, cafés and small businesses. The area is popular with families and expats thanks to nearby schools, international services and easy access to Escazú and the capital.

Its proximity to coffee-country hills and mountain vistas makes it a practical base for exploring Central Valley attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Pozos
morning
:

Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport and take a scenic drive to Pozos, immersing yourself in the lush Costa Rican landscapes. Enjoy picturesque views as you travel through charming towns and coffee plantations. Once you reach Pozos, check into your eco-lodge and unwind after your journey.

afternoon
:

After settling in, take a leisurely walk around the quaint village of Pozos, absorbing the local culture and architecture. Visit a nearby artisan shop to explore handmade crafts and learn about the traditional techniques from local artisans. Stop for lunch at a local café to sample authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, savor the stunning views over the valleys while enjoying a homemade dinner at your lodge. Engage with fellow travelers or locals and share stories of your day. Relish a tranquil evening under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature.

day 2
Exploring the Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a guided tour of the local community to discover the rich history of Pozos and the surrounding areas. Visit the nearby indigenous community and learn about their traditions, crafts, and sustainable practices. Embrace the morning with a warm cup of locally grown coffee.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant featuring farm-to-table ingredients. Participate in a traditional cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Costa Rican dishes. Explore the scenic trails in the region, offering stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife.

evening
:

Return to Pozos for an evening of cultural immersion at a local folk music event or dance performance. Delight in the vibrant rhythms while meeting locals and fellow travelers. Wind down with a nightcap at a café, reflecting on your enriching day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee (regular café)$2-4
🚕Short taxi ride (local)$5-10
🚌Local bus fare$0.50-1.50
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, family-friendly suburban atmosphere
  • Good access to Central Valley attractions, parks and volcanoes
  • Growing selection of cafes, services and international amenities
  • Mild climate and scenic views of surrounding hills
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment within Pozos itself
  • Some dependence on a car — public transport can be indirect
  • Afternoon rains in the wet season can disrupt plans
  • Not a major tourist hub — fewer specialized tourist services on-site
  • "Pura vida" - Pure life / all good / hello/goodbye (friendly expression)
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Sin gluten / soy vegetariano(a)" - Gluten-free / I am vegetarian

Places to Visit in Pozos

Visit one of these nice places.

Hilltop viewpoints near Pozos

Local elevated streets and small hills provide sweeping panoramas of the Central Valley, especially at sunrise or sunset when clouds sit in the valley.

Poás Volcano National Park

A dramatic crater with steam plumes and surrounding cloud forest — one of the best nearby spots for volcanic and landscape shots (access depends on volcanic activity and park hours).

La Paz Waterfall Gardens and surrounding waterfalls

Series of waterfalls, lush vegetation and wildlife; excellent scenes for long-exposure water photography and macro shots of flora.

Local markets and sodas

Colorful produce stalls, coffee displays and street-food vendors provide vivid candid and food photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pozos

The cuisine around Pozos follows classic Costa Rican lines — simple, fresh and focused on rice, beans, plantains, fresh vegetables and seafood when available. Small 'sodas' (local diners) serve affordable home-style meals while newer cafés and restaurants offer international and fusion options. Fresh fruit, coffee and tropical juices are widely available. Markets and weekend farmers’ fairs are good places to try local produce and homemade specialties.

Pozos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gallo Pinto

Costa Rica’s signature breakfast of rice and beans mixed with onions and cilantro, commonly served with eggs, sour cream and tortillas; widely available at local sodas and cafés.

Must-Try!

Casado

A staple lunch plate with rice, beans, salad, plantains and a protein (chicken, beef or fish); expected at sodas and mid-range restaurants.

Ceviche

Fresh fish or seafood cured in citrus with onions and peppers — best at coastal restaurants but often found in city eateries and markets.

Tamales

Corn masa filled with pork or vegetables, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed; commonly enjoyed around holidays and sold at markets and bakeries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market / Feria Verde (nearby)

Weekly farmers’ markets and feria-style stands where you can find fresh fruit, local cheeses, prepared snacks, juices and small artisan foods — a great place to sample seasonal produce and homemade treats.

Sodas and Street Stalls

Small family-run diners and street stalls offer inexpensive casado plates, empanadas, chorreadas (corn pancakes) and quick snacks; ideal for authentic, budget-friendly meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pozos sits in the Central Valley with a mild tropical climate influenced by elevation. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-80s °F (18–30 °C) depending on elevation and time of year. The dry season (Dec–Apr) is sunnier and drier, while May–Nov is the rainy season with regular afternoon showers that keep the landscape lush and green. Microclimates can produce cooler, cloudier conditions on nearby hills and warmer pockets in valley bottoms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A warm handshake and eye contact are common for first meetings; friends and acquaintances may use one light cheek kiss or a hug. Use polite phrases — 'buenos días' and 'por favor'/'gracias' go a long way.

Pura Vida

'Pura vida' is an everyday expression meaning 'pure life' or 'no worries' — use it warmly but respectfully; locals use it frequently to greet, thank or congratulate.

Modesty and Respect

Dress modestly in religious sites and in more conservative neighborhoods. Avoid loud or aggressive behavior; punctuality for casual social events is relaxed, but be on time for business meetings.

Environmental Respect

Costa Ricans value nature — follow trail rules, don’t litter, and avoid touching wildlife or removing natural items from parks.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pozos is generally safer than many large urban centers, but petty theft (bag snatching, pickpocketing) can occur — especially in crowded or tourist areas. Use common-sense precautions: avoid showing large amounts of cash, lock vehicles and doors, keep valuables out of sight, and be cautious walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Road safety is important — drive defensively on winding rural roads, and check conditions during heavy rains. For emergencies, know local emergency numbers and the location of nearby clinics or hospitals.

Tipping in Pozos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge; if not added, a 10% tip for good service is standard. For taxi drivers, round up the fare or add a small tip for help with luggage; tipping hotel staff a few dollars for bell service and housekeeping is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in supermarkets, malls and many restaurants; however, small sodas, markets and street vendors often prefer cash (colones). ATMs are available in Santa Ana and Escazú; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (December–April)

Expect sunny days, warm temperatures and low rainfall — the most popular time to visit for outdoor activities and clear views. Nights can be pleasantly cool at higher elevations. Book accommodations early for the holidays (Christmas/New Year) and local festivals.

Rainy (Green) season (May–November)

Frequent afternoon or evening showers, lush green scenery and fewer crowds. Mornings are often clear, but plan afternoon activities around rain; some rural roads and trails can be muddy or slippery.

Shoulder months (April and November)

Transitional periods where weather can be variable — you may get both clear and rainy days. These months can offer quieter travel and lower prices while still being good for exploring.

Nightlife Guide

Pozos at Night

Pozos itself is mostly quiet in the evening with family-friendly cafés and low-key bars. For livelier nightlife — live music, cocktail bars and clubs — head to nearby Escazú or Santa Ana where there are more upscale bars, rooftop venues and occasional salsa nights. Weekends bring the highest energy; many venues stay open late, and options include wine bars, craft beer pubs and dance clubs catering to locals and expats.

Hiking in Pozos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Escazú trails

Local mountain trails offering viewpoints over the Central Valley, suitable for day hikes and birdwatching close to Pozos and Escazú.

Poás Volcano National Park trails

Well-known park with short, maintained trails to lookouts above the crater and through cloud forest — check activity and access advisories before visiting.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens trails

Series of short, photo-friendly trails connecting multiple waterfalls in a private reserve with well-kept paths and wildlife exhibits.

Braulio Carrillo National Park routes

Extensive rainforest trails a short drive away for more remote and adventurous hiking, with dense jungle, waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Pozos by plane.

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Main international airport serving the Central Valley, located near Alajuela — about 20–45 minutes from Pozos depending on traffic. Offers international and domestic connections and ground transport options including taxis, shuttles and car rentals.

Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ)

Smaller domestic/charter airport in Pavas closer to San José; primarily for domestic flights and private charters. Useful for short hops or private flights but fewer regular commercial options.

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)

Airport in Liberia serving the Guanacaste region with international and domestic flights; useful if combining a Pozos visit with Pacific coast travel but significantly farther (3–4 hour drive).

Getting Around

Walkability

Pozos is moderately walkable around its commercial strips, parks and local cafés, but many residential streets are designed for cars and may lack continuous sidewalks. Short errands and neighborhood strolls are easy; for trips to malls, restaurants in Escazú or nature areas, a car, taxi or rideshare is often more convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Ticos

Costa Rican families who have lived in the area for generations, involved in local businesses, schools and community life.

Expats and International Residents

A growing community of expatriates from North America and Europe attracted by good services, schools and a mild climate.

Young Families and Professionals

Many younger families and professionals live in Pozos and nearby Santa Ana, commuting to jobs in the capital or working locally.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport nationwide — local matches, youth leagues and informal pickup games in parks are common.

Surfing (regionally popular)

While Pozos is inland, many residents travel to Pacific coast beaches for surfing. Surf culture is strong on the western coast of Costa Rica.

Cycling and mountain biking

Road cycling and mountain biking are popular around the hilly terrain near Pozos, with both casual riders and more serious cyclists using local routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Morning and evening rush hours toward and out of San José, Escazú and the central business districts can be congested; allow extra travel time for commutes. Public buses serve routes between towns but can be indirect and slower than driving. Rideshare services (Uber/Cabify) and taxis are widely available for convenient point-to-point travel; renting a car gives the most flexibility for day trips to nature areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pozos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in cafés and mid-range restaurants; many dishes can be adapted (replace meat with extra vegetables or beans). Inform servers that you are vegetarian — some sodas have limited choices but will often prepare rice, beans, salads and plantains.

Vegan

Vegan choices are available in specialty cafés and health-food-focused places; in traditional sodas ask about dairy in sauces and request plain rice, beans and plantains.

Gluten-free

Rice- and corn-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, but watch for sauces and processed foods. Many restaurants will accommodate if asked; Spanish phrase "sin gluten" helps.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics, family physicians and dental offices are available in Santa Ana and nearby Escazú. For more comprehensive care, private hospitals and specialty clinics in San José offer high-quality services, and there are reputable private hospitals within a 20–40 minute drive. Bring travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if you plan remote activities; carry any prescription medications in original packaging and know the location of the nearest 24-hour emergency facility.

Discover Costa Rica

Read more in our Costa Rica 2025 Travel Guide.

Costa Rica Travel Guide