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

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Ready to pack for Cartago, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Cartago, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cartago, Costa Rica

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cartago. 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Cartago is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s 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 Cartago. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

Traveling to Cartago in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s 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 Cartago. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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 things.

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

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April here is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

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 airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 Cartago. 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

  • 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 right type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Cartago during May, you may find that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

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 luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cartago. 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.

  • 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 pillow

    An excellent 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 get the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you visit Cartago during June, you might notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cartago. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Cartago during July, you might see that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

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 Cartago. 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 airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Cartago during August, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

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 stuff.

  • 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 Cartago. 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 things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Cartago is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s 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 Cartago. 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 bags 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • 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

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Cartago is warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) to 70s F (mid 20s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cartago. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Cartago in November, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s 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 Cartago. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • 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 neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Cartago is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s 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 constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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 Cartago. 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option 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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lankester Botanical Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Cartago, Costa Rica

Cartago is a small and charming city located in the heartland of Costa Rica. As one of the oldest cities in Central America, it is steeped in history, culture and beauty. It is a must-visit destination when traveling to Costa Rica. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you can’t miss when in Cartago.

1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles: This is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the country. It is home to the statue of “La Negrita” (the little black one) who is the patron saint of Costa Rica. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to a young indigenous girl in 1635 at this site, and since then the church has been a focus of pilgrimages and devotion.

2. Ruins of the Church of Parroquia Santiago Apóstol: This church was built in 1575, and while it has been partially destroyed over the centuries, the ruins still remain a beautiful and mesmerizing attraction to this day. The masonry work is fascinating, and it provides an interesting example of colonial architecture.

3. Irazú Volcano National Park: This national park is located just a 30-minute drive from Cartago. It is named after the Irazu Volcano, which is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. The park offers a cloud forest habitat with hiking trails, stunning views, a trout hatchery, and camping spots. At the summit, visitors can see the crater filled with a green lake and feel small among the vastness of the volcano.

4. Lankester Botanical Garden: The gardens, which are part of the University of Costa Rica, are a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The garden is home to over 3,000 species of orchids, including the Earth Star orchid which is unique to this area. Visitors can wander through the gardens, take a guided tour and learn about the wonders of the plant kingdom.

5. Orosí Valley: This is a picturesque valley located near Cartago. It is a perfect day trip if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The valley is home to the Orosi River, which is surrounded by misty mountains, waterfalls, deep valleys, and lush forests. There are several churches from the colonial-era in the valley that are well worth visiting. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs, or go on a coffee plantation tour.

In conclusion, Cartago is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and nature. The attractions mentioned above are just a few of the many you can find in this wonderful city. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s colonial history, religious devotion or natural beauty, Cartago will not disappoint. So, pack your bags, and get ready to visit one of the most endearing and captivating cities in Costa Rica.

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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