Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago, Costa Rica is a vibrant city located in the central region of the country. Known for its rich history and culture, Santiago is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore traditional Costa Rican way of life. The city is surrounded by lush green landscapes, including coffee plantations and mountains, offering outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Santiago is also home to charming colonial architecture, bustling markets, and friendly locals eager to share their customs and traditions with visitors.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the central park of Santiago to appreciate local life. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, trying traditional Costa Rican dishes.
Visit the local artisan market where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Take some time to stroll through the historic streets and admire the architecture.
Treat yourself to a dinner at a renowned local restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying fresh seafood paired with local beverages.
Kick off your day with a hike in the nearby mountains, exploring scenic trails and lush vegetation. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.
After your hike, relax by visiting a local coffee plantation. Learn about the coffee-making process and indulge in tastings.
Return to Santiago to unwind at a local bar. Enjoy live music while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and history, with diverse traditions and festivals
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and forests
- Friendly and welcoming locals, fostering a sense of community
- Growing expat community and support networks
- Mild climate with a variety of outdoor activities year-round
- Limited access to some modern amenities compared to larger cities
- Traffic congestion can be an issue in certain areas
- Certain high-cost living aspects, particularly in housing
- Occasional natural disasters such as earthquakes or heavy rains
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers might pose challenges
Best Activities in Santiago
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and beautiful waterfalls on well-marked trails in this scenic national park.
Take a trip to Poas Volcano National Park to see the stunning crater lake and experience the unique ecosystem surrounding the volcano.
Experience the thrill of white water rafting in one of the most beautiful rivers, surrounded by lush rainforests and wildlife.
Enjoy an adrenaline rush while ziplining through the canopy of the cloud forests near Monteverde, offering breathtaking views.
Visit local coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy tastings while surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Observe a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitat at this beautiful nature reserve featuring waterfalls and wildlife.
Explore rolling hills and scenic vistas while mountain biking through the picturesque landscapes of the Central Valley.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santiago with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular hiking spot that provides panoramic views of Santiago and the surrounding mountains. The ascent is rewarded with breathtaking landscapes perfect for photography.
This extensive urban park features elevated viewpoints that overlook the city, offering ideal spots for both casual viewing and photography.
Located at the top of a hill, this viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the Santiago valley. It is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
A large park in the city that features gardens and walking paths, providing an excellent backdrop for photos with city views.
The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens offer great opportunities for photography, alongside the cultural elements of Costa Rican art.
While a bit of a drive from Santiago, the viewpoint at this active volcano provides unique and dramatic landscapes to capture.
A bit further out, this location offers expansive views of the cloud forest and valleys, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional breakfast dish of rice and beans sautéed with onions, sweet pepper, and cilantro, often served with eggs, sour cream, and fried plantains. Try it at Soda Tapia or Soda La Lucha.
Must-Try!
A hearty meal of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a choice of meat, and often accompanied by natilla (sour cream) and picadillo (chopped vegetables). Head to Comida Tipica Dona Lidia for an authentic Casado experience.
A popular bar snack made of rice, beans, diced pork, pico de gallo, and avocado. Visit El Chante Bar for a delicious Chifrijo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santiago better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This organic farmers' market offers a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat snacks. Don't miss the empanadas and fresh tropical fruit juices.
Explore the bustling market stalls offering a variety of street food such as tamales, tacos, and arreglados (sandwiches). Try the ceviche from Marisqueria Mamá Lela.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Costa Rica, it is customary to greet people formally, especially in a professional setting. A handshake is common, and using titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora' shows respect.
Being on time is appreciated in Costa Rican culture. However, it's also important to be flexible, as there may be a more relaxed attitude towards time in social situations.
Engaging in polite and friendly conversation is valued. Avoiding controversial topics like politics or religion in casual settings can help maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santiago with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santiago, Costa Rica, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service charges are not included in the bill. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is typical, and in hotels, tipping bellhops or housekeepers is considered courteous.
Payment practices in Santiago, Costa Rica, often involve cash, with the Costa Rican colón being the most widely accepted currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where cards may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santiago.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Santiago, Costa Rica. Expect plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures, and low humidity. This is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the local culture and attractions. The landscape is lush and vibrant, making it ideal for photography.
The green season, also known as the rainy season, brings daily showers, mainly in the afternoons. While it’s less crowded and prices may be lower, visitors can expect humidity and rain. The countryside is incredibly green and alive, providing wonderful opportunities for eco-tourism and experiencing an exquisite natural environment.
The shoulder seasons offer a transition between the dry and green seasons. You may encounter some rain, but also plenty of sunny days. This is a favorable time for those looking to avoid the peak tourist crowds while still enjoying relatively good weather. It's a great time for travelers interested in local festivities or cultural events.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park located just north of Santiago, offering various trails through lush rainforest, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
The highest peak in Costa Rica, featuring challenging hikes with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Requires a permit for access.
A beautiful trail known for its rich biodiversity and the chance to see the resplendent quetzal bird. This trail connects Parque Nacional Los Quetzales to Cerro de la Muerte.
While a bit further out, it offers a variety of trails through volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and an opportunity to see a variety of wildlife.
Famous for its impressive crater and easy access trails. The park features several trails leading to viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santiago through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
The primary international airport serving San José, the capital of Costa Rica, located just outside of Santiago.
Located in Liberia, this airport serves the Guanacaste province and is the second-largest international airport in Costa Rica.
A smaller airport located in San José, primarily serving domestic flights but also offering some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group includes individuals of European descent, primarily from Spain, Italy, and Germany, making up a significant portion of the population.
Mestizos are people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, representing a large demographic within Santiago and Costa Rica as a whole.
Various Indigenous groups inhabit the region, including the Bribri, Cabécar, and others, contributing to the rich cultural diversity.
This group includes individuals of African descent, primarily descendants of enslaved Africans brought to work on coffee plantations and the Caribbean coast.
A growing number of expatriates from North America, Europe, and other regions live in Santiago, adding to the multicultural landscape.
Includes various ethnic and cultural groups, such as Asian Costa Ricans and members of other minority communities.
The Soul of Santiago
Discover the essence of Santiago through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Santiago, Costa Rica, with many local teams and a vibrant culture surrounding the national league.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Santiago, with many youth leagues and community teams actively participating in local competitions.
Volleyball is also popular in Santiago, particularly among schools and community organizations, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Cycling is a favored outdoor activity, with many locals participating in both recreational cycling and competitive races in the region.
Though not as popular as football, baseball has a dedicated fan base in Santiago, with youth leagues and local games being organized.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Santiago offer vegetarian options such as vegetable casados, plantain-based dishes, and fresh salads. For vegan meals, head to Cafe Miel or request customizations at local eateries.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly. Opt for rice-based dishes, fresh fruits, and traditional corn tortillas. Confirm ingredients and preparation methods for gluten-free suitability.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santiago with these cultural adventures.
