Things To Do
in San Marcos
San Marcos is a small town located in the rolling hills of the Central Valley in Costa Rica. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside and lush coffee plantations. The town has a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Visitors can explore the nearby cloud forests, partake in coffee tours, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the lush trails of the Santa Rosa National Park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful scenic views.
Grab lunch at a local eatery, then visit the nearby Buena Vista Waterfall for a swim in its natural pool. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while taking memorable photos.
As the sun sets, relax at a local café with a warm beverage. Reflect on your day as you listen to the sounds of nature.
Visit the town's cultural center to learn about the local history and traditions of Costa Rica. Participate in a traditional craft workshop.
Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a family-run restaurant. Browse through local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Attend a live music event in the town square. Engage with locals and enjoy the vibrant culture of San Marcos.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural environment with lush landscapes and proximity to mountains.
- Ideal climate for outdoor activities and agriculture.
- Friendly local community with a rich cultural heritage.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Access to fresh local produce and markets.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Less developed infrastructure and public services.
- Job opportunities may be scarce, particularly for non-Spanish speakers.
- Potential for natural disasters such as landslides during rainy seasons.
- Finding professional services can be challenging due to the small-town nature.
Best Activities in San Marcos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush cloud forests of San Marcos while hiking on scenic trails and enjoying the diverse flora and fauna.
Experience an adrenaline rush while ziplining through the lush canopies of San Marcos and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Enjoy the thrill of river rafting or kayaking down the pristine rivers in San Marcos, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Discover the rich birdlife of San Marcos, Costa Rica, and indulge in birdwatching activities while surrounded by beautiful natural habitats.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Marcos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Marcos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake.
Provides a beautiful view of a 70-meter waterfall surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.
Boasts panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, with plenty of photo opportunities of the surrounding area.
Food in San Marcos
San Marcos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Costa Rican dish of rice and beans, often served with eggs, sour cream, and plantains. Try it at Soda La Nueva located in the town center.
Must-Try!
A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein such as fish, chicken, or beef. Don Rosalío Restaurant is renowned for its delicious Casado.
Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and peppers. Sample the best ceviche at El Puerto Escondido on the beachfront.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Marcos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this local farmers' market for a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade snacks. Don't miss the empanadas and tamales sold by the local vendors.
Explore the streets to find small stalls serving up delicious snacks like chorreadas (Corn pancakes) and Chifrijo (Pork, beans, rice, and avocado). Look out for the evening food market near the central square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Marcos, Costa Rica, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, as well as asking permission before taking photos of local residents.
Using polite language such as 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you) is highly valued in San Marcos, Costa Rica, and demonstrates respect for the local culture.
It's important to observe and respect local customs and traditions in San Marcos, Costa Rica, including participating in community events and being mindful of local religious practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Marcos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Marcos
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Marcos, Costa Rica, tipping is not commonly expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. In restaurants, a service charge of 10% is often included in the bill, so additional tipping is not required but can be given for exceptional service.
Cash is widely used for payment in San Marcos, Costa Rica, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit cards are also accepted in many places, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for transactions in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Marcos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for sunny weather, outdoor activities, and wildlife spotting. Expect higher tourist numbers and slightly higher prices.
Ideal for nature enthusiasts, lush green landscapes, and lower tourist crowds. Expect some rainfall and lower accommodation prices.
San Marcos at Night
Hiking in San Marcos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent peak known for its breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems, offering various hiking trails for different skill levels.
A beautiful park famous for its cloud forests and rich wildlife, featuring several well-marked hiking trails suitable for birdwatching and nature lovers.
The tallest mountain in Costa Rica, providing challenging hikes that reward adventurers with stunning vistas from the summit.
A local favorite for hiking, offering scenic views of the surrounding valleys and an opportunity to connect with nature.
A lesser-known gem with a variety of trails that lead through lush landscapes and offer sightings of local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Marcos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Marcos by plane.
Main international airport serving San José, Costa Rica, located approximately 110 km from San Marcos.
International airport located in Liberia, Costa Rica, approximately 250 km from San Marcos.
International airport located near San José, used primarily for regional flights, approximately 100 km from San Marcos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents communicate in Spanish, influenced by the historical settlement patterns and cultural heritage.
Includes various indigenous communities such as the Bribri and Cabécar, contributing to the cultural and social diversity.
A growing number of expatriates, particularly from North America and Europe, enhancing the multicultural aspects of the area.
A significant demographic group comprising individuals of mixed European and indigenous descent.
A vibrant demographic with a high percentage of young residents, driven by local educational institutions.
An increasing demographic of older adults, reflective of broader trends in aging populations across Costa Rica.
The Soul of San Marcos
Discover the essence of San Marcos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in San Marcos, Costa Rica, played by people of all ages and often having community events and local leagues.
Basketball is also widely played, with many schools and local teams participating in friendly matches and tournaments.
Volleyball is a popular sport, especially in schools and community centers, enjoyed both indoors and on the beach.
Cycling has gained popularity as both a competitive sport and a means of transportation in the area, with local clubs promoting events.
Jogging and running are favored activities for exercise, with several local events and running trails available for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Marcos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in San Marcos offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including fresh salads, vegetable-based soups, and plantain-based meals. Be sure to visit Cafeteria La Orquídea and Tierra Mia for a variety of meat-free options.
While traditional Costa Rican cuisine heavily features rice and beans, it's important to be cautious of hidden gluten in sauces and marinades. Restaurants such as Restaurante Sabor Tico and El Rancho del Sapito are known for catering to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Marcos with these cultural adventures.
