Cabo Matapalo, Costa Rica: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Cabo Matapalo, Costa Rica

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

What to wear/what to pack for Cabo Matapalo, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you go to Cabo Matapalo in January, you will notice that it is extremely hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel 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 Cabo Matapalo. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

In February, Cabo Matapalo is consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cabo Matapalo, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

March

If you are traveling to Cabo Matapalo in March, you will notice that it is a scorcher and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

April

April here is constantly hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

In May, Cabo Matapalo is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cabo Matapalo, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

June

June in Cabo Matapalo is constantly hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

July

July in Cabo Matapalo can be sweltering and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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 airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you vacation in Cabo Matapalo during August, you will probably see that it can be sweltering and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you go to Cabo Matapalo in September, you will notice that it can be very hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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 find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

October

October in Cabo Matapalo is extremely hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Cabo Matapalo is extremely hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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 Cabo Matapalo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December in Cabo Matapalo is really hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cabo Matapalo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Cabo Matapalo, Costa Rica

Located on the southernmost tip of the Osa Peninsula, Cabo Matapalo is a hidden gem of Costa Rica, offering a serene and adventurous escape for tourists. This secluded paradise is surrounded by stunning beaches, dense rainforests and wildlife-filled national parks, making it one of the top destinations in the country. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cabo Matapalo.

1. Playa Matapalo: Also known as the "Jewel of the Osa Peninsula", Playa Matapalo is a pristine beach with turquoise waters, golden sand, and towering palm trees. It is an ideal spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is also home to a wide array of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.

2. Corcovado National Park: Spanning over 163 square miles, Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. The park is home to 13 different ecosystems, including rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs, making it a top attraction for eco-tourists. It is also home to some of the world's rarest and endangered species, such as the jaguar, the giant anteater, and the harpy eagle.

3. Golfo Dulce: This stunning tropical fjord is a must-see attraction for nature lovers. It is surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The gulf is home to an array of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales.

4. Casa Orquideas Botanical Garden: This tranquil botanical garden is an excellent place for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica's flora and fauna. The garden covers 7 acres of land and contains more than 500 species of plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and fruit trees. Visitors can also spot animals such as monkeys and toucans.

5. Monkey Trails Canopy Tour: This thrilling canopy tour lets visitors experience the adrenaline rush of flying through the treetops of the rainforest. The tour includes zip-lining, walking on hanging bridges, and rappelling down trees. It is a perfect activity for adventurous tourists who want to get a bird's eye view of the rainforest.

6. Matapalo Surf School: For those who want to learn to surf, Matapalo Surf School is the perfect place to start. The school offers surfing lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. The instructors are experienced and knowledgeable, providing personalized attention to each student.

In conclusion, Cabo Matapalo is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers. With its pristine beaches, towering rainforests, and diverse wildlife, this destination is a top attraction for travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether it's surfing, hiking, or wildlife watching, this hidden gem has something for everyone.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Amasra, Turkey, West Midlands, England, United Kingdom, Zushi, Japan, Žemaičių Kalvarija, Lithuania, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, Tanjung Bira, Indonesia, Ontario, Oregon, United States of America, Abu Simbel, Egypt, Nosara, Costa Rica, Kőszeg, Hungary, and Lower Bavaria, Germany.