Things To Do
in San Ignacio
San Ignacio is a welcoming inland town set among green valleys and rolling hills, serving as a gateway to Costa Rica’s rich natural and cultural experiences. The town anchors daily life with a friendly, small-town vibe, colonial charm, and easy access to nearby cloud forests, coffee farms, and waterfalls. Visitors are drawn by relaxed markets, warm hospitality, and straightforward access to outdoor adventures without straying far from town.
With a tropical climate, year-round greenery, and a sense of pura vida, San Ignacio suits nature lovers, families, and cultural explorers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in San Ignacio, then head out to the ancient Maya ruins of Cahal Pech. As you explore the well-preserved temples and plazas, immerse yourself in the rich history of this fascinating civilization. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and the town below as you learn about the significance of each structure.
After a morning filled with history, enjoy a traditional Belizean lunch at a nearby restaurant. Once re-energized, venture to the nearby Xunantunich archaeological site, accessible via a scenic ferry ride. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the tallest structure in the region, and take in panoramic views of both Belize and the Guatemalan border.
Return to San Ignacio and unwind with a leisurely stroll through the town as the sun sets. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor more of the regional cuisine while enjoying live music. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy bar for a refreshing drink and perhaps a chat with friendly locals.
Begin your morning with a guided tour into the lush Belizean jungle, where you can spot exotic wildlife and vibrant flora. Engage in a thrilling zip-lining adventure, soaring above the treetops and experiencing the jungle from a bird’s eye view. Afterward, cool off with a swim in a natural pool surrounded by pristine nature.
After a morning filled with excitement, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene jungle environment. Continue your adventure with a cave tubing tour, floating on inner tubes through the mystical caves while marveling at stalactites and ancient Mayan artifacts. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the significance of these caves to the ancient Maya.
Return to San Ignacio and take some time to relax and freshen up. Head out for dinner at a local steakhouse, indulging in grilled meats paired with fresh salads. Wrap up your evening by visiting a local artisan market, where you can browse handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.0-1.8 |
| 🚌Local bus fare (short ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming, relaxed vibe
- Proximity to nature, coffee farms, and waterfalls
- Authentic Costa Rican dining and markets with reasonable prices
- Good base for exploring central highland biodiversity
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger tourist hubs
- Rural roads can be windy or slow in heavy rain
- Smaller selection of international restaurants in town
- Weather can be humid and unpredictable, especially in rainy season
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- " Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pura vida" - Pure life (well-being/hello)
- "Salud" - Cheers / Bless you
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un plato vegetariano?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
Places to Visit in San Ignacio
Visit one of these nice places.
Bustling in the day with locals and market stalls, this plaza’s arcades, church facade, and shaded benches offer candid street photography and portrait opportunities.
A hillside viewpoint just outside town provides sweeping panoramas of green valleys, distant hills, and golden sunsets over tropical skies.
Terraced coffee plantations yield lush plant rows, morning mists, and carry a vivid sense of place for photography enthusiasts.
Short river and forest trails lead to small cascades and clear pools, ideal for nature shots and refreshing portraits.
Local storefronts and street-side stalls offer vibrant colors, textures, and candid moments of everyday life.
Food in San Ignacio
San Ignacio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Costa Rican plate with rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat or fish, offering a balanced sample of the country’s flavors.
Must-Try!
A staple breakfast combination of rice and beans scrambled together, usually served with eggs, tortillas, and fresh cheese.
A comforting beef and vegetable stew simmered with yucca and tubers, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, peppers, and cilantro, common in inland towns near river shores and lakes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, breads, roasted corn, and tasty street-side snacks to sample Costa Rican flavors.
Patacones, tamales, empanadas, and fresh fruit juice stands line side streets, especially in the late morning and early afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with a friendly ‘Pura Vida’ and a handshake; maintain a relaxed, respectful tone in conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in public spaces; tipping is appreciated for good service.
Safety
Tipping in San Ignacio
Ensure a smooth experience
In Costa Rica, a 10% tip is common if a service charge is not included. Round up the bill or leave a small amount for good service at cafes and bars.
Cash (Costa Rican colón and USD) is widely accepted, though credit/debit cards are common in towns and hotels. ATMs are readily available; keep some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings sunny days and clearer skies, ideal for outdoor activities and photography. Expect warm afternoons and cooler evenings in higher spots; carry sun protection and water.
Lush green landscapes and frequent tropical showers characterize this period. Pack a light rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof footwear; trails can be slick, so walk with care.
San Ignacio at Night
Hiking in San Ignacio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with crater views, lush forested surroundings, and opportunities to photograph the terrain and fauna.
Well-marked trails around multiple waterfalls and tropical rainforest, ideal for nature photography and family-friendly hikes.
A gentle hike to a higher vantage point where misty air, ferns, and bird life create atmospheric photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach San Ignacio by plane.
Main international gateway located near San José/Alajuela; a common arrival point for travelers visiting San Ignacio.
Smaller domestic and regional airport closer to the capital; useful for faster airport transfers and short flights within Costa Rica.
Liberia International Airport in Guanacaste; an alternative entry point for travelers combining trips to the Pacific coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time Costa Rican families with a strong sense of community and regional traditions.
A growing number of travelers from North America and Europe, attracted by nature, culture, and a slower pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Costa Rica, widely followed and played in parks, schools, and clubs.
A common recreational sport in communities and schools, with pickup games in local courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Ignacio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat, and vegetarian options are common at local eateries. Look for arroz con frijoles, plantains, fresh salads, and eggs or cheese for protein, and ask for bean-based stews or veggie curries when available.