Things To Do
in San Josecito

San Josecito, Costa Rica is a quaint and charming town nestled in the lush hills of the Central Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The area is rich in coffee plantations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can enjoy friendly local culture and a slower pace of life that makes it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

San Josecito serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich biodiversity and adventure activities that Costa Rica has to offer.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local coffee plantation where you can learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a fresh cup of brew.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens, taking time to enjoy the trails and stunning waterfalls while observing the local wildlife.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes while soaking in the ambiance of the town.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided tour to the breathtaking Poás Volcano, where you can witness the active crater and surrounding cloud forest.

afternoon
:

Return to San Josecito to visit local artisan shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, enjoying dessert and perhaps some live music performed by talented local artists.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Domestic beer$3
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Less touristy, offering a more authentic experience.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Some activities may require a guide or transportation.
  • "¡Pura Vida!" - Pure Life! (A common greeting)
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Hasta luego" - See you later

Places to Visit in San Josecito

Visit one of these nice places.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

A beautiful location with multiple waterfalls and lush gardens, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Poás Volcano National Park

Offers stunning views of the active crater and surrounding cloud forest, ideal for dramatic landscape photography.

San Josecito Town Square

A picturesque spot featuring colonial architecture and vibrant local life, great for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Josecito

San Josecito offers a delightful culinary experience with its blend of traditional Costa Rican flavors and local ingredients. Must-try dishes include Gallo Pinto, Casado, and freshly made Ceviche. The town hosts vibrant food markets and street vendors that offer a taste of local life, while various restaurants cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

San Josecito Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gallo Pinto

A typical Costa Rican dish made of rice and black beans, often served with eggs for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Casado

A hearty meal that includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a protein choice like chicken or fish.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, mixed with onions, cilantro, and served with tortilla chips.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

San Josecito Market

A local market where residents buy fresh produce, spices, and street food, providing a taste of local life.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in San Josecito is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The dry season (December to April) features sunny weather, while the rainy season (May to November) brings frequent showers, particularly in the afternoons. The humidity is moderate, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet everyone in a small group.

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable clothing is appropriate, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Nature

Always respect the natural environment and wildlife; refrain from littering and follow local guidelines.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Josecito is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and opt for well-lit areas at night. It's also advisable to stay informed about local advice regarding any recent safety concerns or natural events.

Tipping in San Josecito

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (Colones) and major credit cards; however, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - April)

Expect sunny days and little rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Rainy Season (May - November)

Frequent rain showers are common, especially in the afternoons, but the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Holiday Season (December)

Experience festive celebrations and local traditions, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Green Season (June - August)

This season features warm temperatures and occasional rain, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

San Josecito at Night

San Josecito offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with casual bars and live music venues. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can still enjoy a night out at a local bar featuring traditional Costa Rican music. Many places close relatively early, around midnight, making it a cozy experience rather than a party atmosphere.

Hiking in San Josecito

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Chirripó

Costa Rica's tallest peak, offering challenging trails with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Sendero Los Robles

A moderate hike through lush forests, leading to beautiful viewpoints and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach San Josecito by plane.

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Located approximately 30 km from San Josecito, this is the main international airport serving the region, providing access to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Josecito is relatively walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and a compact town center. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Costa Ricans

The majority of the population consists of friendly locals who are proud of their heritage and culture.

Expats

A growing community of expatriates from various countries who have settled in the area for its beauty and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Costa Rica, with local teams and leagues often drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

Costa Rica is renowned for its surfing spots, and while San Josecito is inland, many surfers travel to nearby beaches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Josecito is generally light, with manageable road conditions. Public transportation is available through local buses, which are affordable and connect to nearby cities. However, during peak hours, roads may become congested, especially in larger cities like San Jose.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Josecito.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly rice and bean-based meals.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dishes are often gluten-free, it's advisable to check with restaurants for specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Josecito is adequate, with local clinics providing basic services. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals are available in nearby cities like San Jose. It's advisable to have travel health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Discover Costa Rica

Read more in our Costa Rica 2025 Travel Guide.

Costa Rica Travel Guide