Things To Do
in San Marcos
San Marcos, Costa Rica is a small highland town in the central Pacific region, ringed by coffee farms and lush rainforest. The town exudes a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and colorful markets that invite slow exploration. Visitors can easily blend outdoor adventures with authentic Costa Rican culture, from coffee tours to scenic viewpoints.
With easy access to San José and nearby natural attractions, San Marcos makes a welcoming base for a Costa Rican countryside experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious Costa Rican breakfast at a local soda, savoring gallo pinto and fresh fruits. After breakfast, wander through the charming streets of San Marcos, taking in the colorful architecture and vibrant murals. Stop by the central park and admire the local flora while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Visit the Museo de San Marcos, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes and perhaps a cup of Costa Rican coffee. In the afternoon, explore the artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs to remember your trip.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a taste of traditional Costa Rican cuisine, perhaps trying casado or ceviche. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of local music and laughter. End your evening with a stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of San Marcos under the stars.
Embark on a guided tour of a local coffee farm, where you can learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup. Participate in the harvesting if in season, getting hands-on experience with the local farming techniques. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while overlooking the stunning views of the coffee plantations.
After the tour, enjoy a hearty lunch at the farm's restaurant, featuring farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients. Spend your afternoon walking through the lush coffee fields, taking in the breathtaking scenery and learning about the biodiversity of the area. Capture beautiful photographs of the rolling hills and the vibrant green surroundings.
Return to San Marcos for a relaxing evening, perhaps visiting a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink. Engage in conversations with locals and other travelers, exchanging stories and experiences. As the night deepens, take a quiet walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (night) | $40-70 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🥭Fresh fruit or juice | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil pace and scenic countryside
- Friendly locals and affordable travel
- Close to San José for day trips and easy access
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Some amenities may be basic in very small establishments
- Roads can be challenging during the rainy season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in San Marcos
Visit one of these nice places.
A hillside lookout with sweeping valley and coffee-plantation silhouettes; best at sunrise or golden hour.
Colorful colonial architecture, fountains, and locals gathered in the plaza provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Rustic trails through coffee fields leading to misty mornings and dramatic landscapes.
Shaded paths along streams with birdlife, butterflies, and reflections perfect for nature photography.
Food in San Marcos
San Marcos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic combination of rice and black beans fried together, typically served with eggs, sour cream, and fried plantains.
Must-Try!
A filling plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein such as chicken, beef, or fish.
A comforting beef stew with yuca, potatoes, carrots, and corn; a hearty Costa Rican staple.
A flavorful black bean soup often topped with rice, hard-boiled eggs, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh produce, dairy, meats, and prepared snacks—great for sampling daily Costa Rican flavors.
Patacones, empanadas, grilled corn, and fresh fruit skewers sold by friendly vendors around the plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A ubiquitous greeting and philosophy; use it generously to convey friendliness and appreciation.
A handshake or light nod is common; maintain polite eye contact and a calm, respectful tone in conversation.
Casual but neat attire is appropriate; cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches or formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in San Marcos
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; 5–10% is common for good service in restaurants. Taxis expect rounding up when convenient.
Cash is widely accepted; most places also take credit/debit cards. Some small eateries may be cash-only or have a minimum for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with little rain; excellent for outdoor activities. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush greenery; trails can be muddy; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
San Marcos at Night
Hiking in San Marcos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular local hike with valley views; suitable for beginners to moderate hikers.
Protected forest area with well-marked trails and chances to see local wildlife.
A short, rewarding hike to a cascading waterfall and natural pool.
Airports
How to reach San Marcos by plane.
Main international gateway to Costa Rica; about 1–1.5 hours by car from San Marcos, depending on traffic.
Small domestic airport serving limited regional flights; not always suitable for international travel.
Significant international hub in Guanacaste; farther from San Marcos but useful for longer trips to the Nicoya Peninsula.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A warm, family-oriented community with deep ties to farming and regional traditions.
A growing presence due to nearby reserves, farms, and academic collaborations.
A small but increasing community drawn by climate, community life, and affordability.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect local games and pickup matches in plazas and fields.
Nearby Pacific coast areas offer surf lessons and consistent breaks for all levels.
Accessible hillside routes and forest reserves provide scenic, variable terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Marcos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most sodas offer vegetarian options like rice, beans, salads, plantains, and fresh vegetables; ask for oil instead of lard and for cheese or eggs as protein if needed.
Rice and beans dishes are naturally gluten-free; opt for fresh produce and meat, and request that sauces be prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.