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

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Ready to pack for San José, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to San José, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to San José, Costa Rica

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

What to wear/what to pack for San José, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit San José during January, you may see that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in San José. 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 help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • 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 see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in this region is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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 excessive amounts 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. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit San José during March, you may find that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive 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 neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to San José in April, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are 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 San José. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage 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 expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in San José is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

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 additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct type. Many 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 is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in San José is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) to 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. It's important that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in San José 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

Traveling to San José in August, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • 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 see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in San José is warm and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters available online are simply 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 locations.

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in San José during October, you will probably see that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in San José. 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in San José during November, you are likely to see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you visit San José during December, you will probably find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s 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 San José. 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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties 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

If you see the Museo de Oro Precolombino, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in San José, Costa Rica

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history, unique culture, and stunning landscapes. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a range of exciting and educational activities to visitors. From colonial architecture to natural wonders, there is no shortage of things to do and see in San José. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in San José, Costa Rica.

1. National Theater of Costa Rica

The National Theater of Costa Rica is a magnificent building that dates back to 1897. It is a beautiful neoclassical structure with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and frescoes. The theater is still in use today, hosting concerts, operas, and plays. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture and the performing arts.

2. Gold Museum

The Gold Museum is one of the finest archaeological museums in Costa Rica. It displays a vast collection of gold artifacts from the pre-Columbian era. There are more than 1,500 objects on exhibit, including jewelry, masks, and sculptures. The most famous item on display is the golden frog, a symbol of prosperity and good luck in Costa Rican culture.

3. National Museum of Costa Rica

The National Museum of Costa Rica is located in a former military barracks that dates back to 1917. It showcases the history and culture of Costa Rica, from the pre-Columbian era to the present day. The museum features exhibits on anthropology, natural history, and Costa Rican art. There are also displays on the history of Costa Rican democracy and the abolition of the army.

4. La Sabana Metropolitan Park

La Sabana Metropolitan Park is a 72-hectare park located on the outskirts of San José. It is an excellent destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are walking trails, picnic areas, a lake, and sports facilities. The park is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Costa Rican Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design.

5. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including Arenal, Poás, and Irazú. Visitors can hike in the park, soak in hot springs, and even go zip-lining. It is a great destination for anyone who loves adventure and natural beauty.

6. La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a spectacular natural attraction located outside San José. It consists of a series of waterfalls and cascades, surrounded by lush rainforest. Visitors can hike the trails, admire the waterfalls, and observe the wildlife. There is also a butterfly garden and a hummingbird garden on site.

7. Central Market

The Central Market is a bustling and colorful market in the heart of San José. It is an excellent place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. Visitors can find everything from coffee and chocolate to handmade jewelry and leather goods. The market is also home to several small restaurants serving authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

In conclusion, San José, Costa Rica, is a fascinating destination with something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural wonders, the city has a lot to offer visitors. These top tourist attractions are just a few of the highlights, but they are all worth seeing and experiencing.

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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