Things To Do
in Escazú
Escazú is a vibrant and upscale suburb located just west of San José, Costa Rica's capital city. Known for its picturesque mountain views and pleasant climate, Escazú is a popular residential area for locals and expats alike. The town offers a mix of modern amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes, while also retaining its traditional charm with colonial architecture and small parks.
With easy access to nature reserves and outdoor activities, Escazú is a desirable destination for those seeking a balance between city living and natural beauty.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hike at Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo, breathing in the fresh mountain air and admiring the flora and fauna. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by nature before heading to the next adventure.
Visit the beautiful Escazú artisan market to shop for local crafts and enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Take your time to interact with local artisans and learn about their crafts.
End your day dining at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like casado or gallo pinto. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music to unwind.
Start with a tour at a local coffee plantation, learning about the coffee-making process from bean to brew. Sample some of the finest coffees while enjoying a stunning view of the valley.
After coffee, head to a nearby spa for a refreshing wellness treatment or massage. Let your stress melt away in the serene environment.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant, watching the sunset over the city as you indulge in expertly prepared dishes. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxing evening under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and proximity to coffee plantations.
- A mild climate with pleasant temperatures year-round.
- Access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring national parks.
- A growing expatriate community and a friendly local population.
- Good public services, including healthcare and education.
- Cost of living can be higher compared to other regions in Costa Rica.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can be an issue.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- High reliance on tourism can lead to seasonal fluctuations in local economies.
- Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can pose risks to residents.
Best Activities in Escazú
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Parque Nacional São José, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
A short drive from Escazú, this attraction features beautiful waterfalls, walking trails, and a wildlife rescue center, ideal for nature lovers.
Enjoy mountain biking trails around Escazú with scenic views of the mountains and valleys, suitable for various skill levels.
Join bird-watching tours in the Escazú Mountains, home to a variety of bird species, including some that are endemic to the region.
Take part in outdoor yoga and meditation sessions offered at local retreats, set amidst the tranquil nature of Escazú.
Visit nearby coffee farms to learn about the coffee-making process, enjoy tastings, and explore beautiful plantation landscapes.
Experience local culture through guided walking tours that lead you through Escazú's history, art, and architecture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Escazú with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Escazú
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular lookout point that offers panoramic views of the San José skyline and the Central Valley. It is an excellent location for sunset photos.
This park provides scenic hiking trails and viewpoints that overlook the lush landscape of Escazú. Great for nature photography.
An upscale hotel with stunning views of the mountains and valley. The terrace provides perfect backdrops for photos.
A challenging hike leads to this peak, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Located in nearby La Sabana, this museum has beautiful gardens and sculptures that create fantastic opportunities for artistic photography.
Food in Escazú
Escazú Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Costa Rican dish of rice and beans sautéed together with onions, peppers, and spices. Often served at breakfast and as a side dish with other meals.
Must-Try!
A typical lunch dish featuring rice and beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein such as chicken, fish, or beef. It's a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
A popular bar snack made with a delicious mix of rice, beans, chicharrones (crispy pork), pico de gallo, and avocado. It's a flavorful and hearty dish, perfect for sharing.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Escazú better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant farmers' market offers a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties. It's a great place to experience the flavors of Escazú and pick up fresh ingredients.
Head to Paseo de las Flores to explore a variety of street food stalls offering flavorful bites such as empanadas, ceviche, and fresh tropical fruit drinks. It's a great spot to sample local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Escazú, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días/tardes/noches' depending on the time of day. A handshake is common among acquaintances, while close friends may greet with a hug or a light kiss on the cheek.
While Costa Ricans are generally laid-back, being punctual is appreciated, especially for formal events or business meetings. Arriving a few minutes late is often acceptable, but try to avoid excessive tardiness.
Personal space norms can vary, but it is important to be aware of individual preferences. Maintain a respectful distance during conversations, especially with people you do not know well, and be attentive to body language.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Escazú with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Escazú
Ensure a smooth experience
In Escazú, Costa Rica, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants if service is satisfactory. Some restaurants include a service charge in the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping. For other services like taxi drivers or hotel staff, rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is customary.
Payment methods in Escazú typically include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments. US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas. However, it's important to carry colones, the local currency, for smaller establishments and markets. Many places also offer electronic payment options, reflecting a trend towards cashless transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Escazú.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Escazú, Costa Rica. Expect warm and sunny days with minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities, exploring local attractions, and enjoying the vibrant culture of the area.
During this time, you can expect lush landscapes and cooler temperatures. Although showers are common, they usually occur in the afternoons or evenings. It's a great time for eco-tourism, as the countryside is particularly beautiful.
Escazú hosts various holiday festivities, especially around Christmas and New Year's. Expect a lively atmosphere, with decorations, local markets, and cultural events. It's a peak time for both tourists and locals, making it vibrant and festive.
These months are a mix of the dry and green seasons. You can enjoy some sunshine with sporadic rains. It's a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and still want to experience the beauty of nature transitioning from lush greenery to drier landscapes.
Escazú at Night
Hiking in Escazú
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A high mountain area with breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. Popular for its challenging trails and cooler climate.
Located a short drive from Escazú, this national park offers numerous trails through lush rainforests, with options for both easy and difficult hikes.
Famed for its rich biodiversity, this park has various trails that lead through cloud forests where you can encounter unique wildlife.
A scenic trail located in the nearby mountains that offers stunning views and a chance to see waterfalls along the way.
A city park that has walking and running paths, as well as natural areas and gardens, ideal for casual hikes and outdoor activities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Escazú through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Escazú by plane.
The main international airport serving San José, Costa Rica, located approximately 21 km from Escazú.
An international airport located in Liberia, Costa Rica, approximately 218 km from Escazú.
A smaller international airport located in San José, Costa Rica, around 9 km from Escazú, mainly for regional flights.
Located in Manzanillo, Mexico, approximately 430 km from Escazú, this is a major airport for travelers coming from the Pacific coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A demographic group consisting of young individuals transitioning into adulthood.
This group encompasses the primary working-age population, important for economic activities.
Older adults who may require senior-specific services and healthcare.
Young children in the area, often dependent on family structures and education systems.
Women across all age groups, contributing to the social and economic fabric of Escazú.
Men across various age groups, participating in the labor force and community activities.
A community of expatriates living in the area, contributing to cultural diversity.
Families with limited financial resources, often in need of assistance and social services.
Families with moderate financial stability, often engaged in local commerce and community life.
Affluent families contributing to the economy through higher spending and investment.
The Soul of Escazú
Discover the essence of Escazú through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Escazú and throughout Costa Rica, with a rich culture surrounding local and national teams.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local leagues, attracting a strong community of fans and players.
Volleyball is popular in Escazú, especially on beaches and in schools, contributing to an active sporting culture.
The hilly terrain around Escazú makes it a great location for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Tennis is a popular sport in Escazú, with several clubs and facilities available for residents and visitors.
Running is a common pastime in Escazú, with many trails and organized events that promote fitness and community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Escazú.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Escazú offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as fresh salads, vegetable stir-fries, and plant-based versions of traditional Costa Rican meals. Some recommended places include La Casona de Laly and Café del Barista.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at various restaurants in Escazú, including gluten-free pasta dishes, grilled meats, and seafood. It's advisable to inform the staff about dietary restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Escazú with these cultural adventures.
