Must-see places in San José, Costa Rica
San José offers a unique blend of metropolitan energy and natural beauty. Explore the key landmarks that define this fascinating Central American capital.
Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica
A stunning architectural landmark and the center of performing arts.
Museo Nacional de Costa Rica
Housed in an old fortress, it covers natural history, archaeology, and colonial history.
Mercado Centras de San José
A vibrant hub for authentic Costa Rican food, spices, coffee, and local souvenirs.
Parque Central de San José
A historic central meeting spot surrounded by important cultural buildings.
Parque Metropolitano La Sabana
Known as the "lungs of San José," a large urban park for recreation and sports.
Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo
A vast protected area of rainforest, perfect for hiking and viewing diverse wildlife.
Travel tips for your trip from Bogotá to San José, Costa Rica
We want your adventure to be perfect. Get all the vital details on entry, currency, and travel logistics so you can focus only on enjoying Costa Rica.
How long is the flight from Bogotá to San José, Costa Rica?
The flight from Bogotá to San José, Costa Rica takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Get ready to leave behind Bogotá’s cooler climate and step into the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Costa Rica’s vibrant capital.
San José is often ranked among the safest cities in Latin America, offering travelers a laid-back yet lively experience. From natural landscapes and cultural diversity to historic streets and authentic cuisine, the city has something for every traveler—whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a bit of both.
Do I need a visa to travel to San José from Colombia?
Colombian nationals generally need a consular or multiple tourist visa, with the following exceptions:
- Travelers holding visas or residency permits from the United States of America or Canada.
- Travelers holding residency permits from Scotland, Wales, England, Northern Ireland, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and European Union countries.
Before booking your flight, make sure you meet the entry requirements for Costa Rica:
- Valid passport: must be valid for at least 3 months from your arrival date (only machine-readable passports are accepted).
- Return ticket and required documents for entry into another destination country.
- Proof of financial solvency: at least $100 USD per month of stay.
- Accommodation confirmation: hotel booking or rental agreement.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate: required for travelers coming from or transiting through Colombia. Must be presented at least 10 days before arrival.
- Malaria vaccination certificate: recommended.
- CheckMig pre-registration: must be completed between 72 hours and 1 hour before your flight.
note: Venezuelan citizens need a consulted visa issued by Costa Rican consulates abroad. Nationals from Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela traveling in non-resident transit status by air must also present a visa and comply with all procedures.
Are vaccines required to enter Costa Rica?
Yellow Fever Vaccine is required for all travelers arriving from or transiting through Colombia. Travelers must present the physical international yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow card only) issued at least 10 days prior to arrival. This will be checked at our airport counter and before boarding.
This requirement applies to all travelers who have visited countries with active yellow fever transmission, as classified by the World Health Organization (WHO). For more information, please refer to our Help Center.
- Malaria Vaccination: Recommended.
What is the official currency in Costa Rica?
The official currency is the Costa Rican Colon, although the U.S. dollar is widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist-oriented shops. If you need to exchange money, you can do so at local banks such as Banco Nacional de Costa Rica or Banco de Costa Rica, at currency exchange offices located in airports and malls, or even at some hotels and resorts (though their rates may not be as favorable).
Recommended payment methods
- International credit and debit cards: widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and larger stores.
- Cash in colones or U.S. dollars: handy for markets, small shops, and public transportation.
- Mobile payments: certain local apps are becoming increasingly popular in tourist-friendly areas.
Tip: Keep some colones on hand for small purchases, but use your card for bigger expenses to stay safe and avoid carrying too much cash.
Best time to visit San José, Costa Rica?
The best time to visit San José is generally during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
During these months, you’ll enjoy sunny days and lower humidity, making it perfect for exploring the city's museums, theaters, and nearby coffee plantations without the interruption of afternoon rain. Temperatures usually hover in the pleasant 72°F to 82°F range.
If you’re looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, the shoulder season (May, June, and November) offers a good compromise. You might experience brief rain showers, but hotels and flights are often more affordable.