Alajuela, Costa Rica: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Alajuela, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Alajuela, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Alajuela, Costa Rica

Based on the climate and weather in Alajuela, Costa Rica, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Alajuela, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Alajuela, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Alajuela, Costa Rica by month

January

Traveling to Alajuela in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you go to Alajuela in February, you will notice that it is hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you visit Alajuela during March, you may see that it is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April is constantly hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Alajuela is extremely warm and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

In June, Alajuela is hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Alajuela, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Alajuela during July, you may see that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Alajuela is extremely warm and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

In September, Alajuela is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Alajuela, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you visit Alajuela during October, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Alajuela in November, you will notice that it is hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Alajuela in December, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Costa Rica has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Alajuela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit the lovely The Central Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Parque Juan Santamaría, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Alajuela, Costa Rica

Alajuela, a city in Costa Rica, is one of the top tourist destinations in this Central American country. Known for its lush flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, and hospitable locals, Alajuela draws tourists from all parts of the world. So, if you have been planning to visit Costa Rica, it is essential to put Alajuela on your itinerary. Here are the top tourist attractions in Alajuela that you must-visit.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz Waterfall Gardens, situated in Vara Blanca, is a biological and botanical reserve that receives thousands of tourists every year. The reserve covers 70 acres and contains five waterfalls, various animal species, and a butterfly observatory. Visitors will enjoy walking through the reserve's trails that are bordered by stunning flowers, trees, streams, and wildlife. Admission to the reserve is $44 for adults and $28 for children.

Arenal Volcano

If you are an adventure enthusiast, consider hiking up the Arenal volcano. This towering volcano stands at a height of 5,437 feet and last erupted in 2010. When hiking up, you can view the remnants of lava that flowed down the volcano’s slopes, indicating the danger of this peak. You can also visit the nearby hot springs where you can relax after a day of hiking.

Poas Volcano National Park

The Poas Volcano National Park is another must-visit site in Alajuela. With its close proximity to the city (only an hour away), the park is a perfect place for a day trip. The park features a giant crater lake that sits at the top of the park’s volcano. Visitors can hike around the park, spot animals, and watch the fiery orange volcano that periodically spews out steam from the cone.

Juan Santamaria Museum

History buffs would not want to miss a visit to the Juan Santamaria museum in Alajuela. This museum is located in the town’s central square and has several artifacts that depict Costa Rica’s history, particularly the 1856 battle between Costa Rica and William Walker’s invading forces. The museum is open every day, and admission is free.

Alajuela Central Market

The Alajuela Central Market is a favorite hotspot for tourists who want to experience the local culture. The market has several stalls that sell fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. The market is open every day, and you can buy something to nibble on as you explore the city.

In conclusion, Alajuela is a place that is rich in history, scenery, and adventure. Whether you love hiking on volcanoes or looking at wildlife, this city has something to offer for everyone. By visiting the locations mentioned above, you will have an unforgettable experience of Costa Rica you will never forget.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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