City overview
San José, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, offers a surprising mix of urban energy and natural beauty, set against a backdrop of lush green mountains. The city is home to a small but active Orthodox Jewish community, centered around the historic Centro Israelita Sionista. Visitors will find warm hospitality, kosher dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a unique Central American destination.
Jabad Lubavitch de Costa Rica
San Jose
Rabbi
Rabbi Hershel Spalter
Phone
+506 4010 1515The Chabad House in Escazú, offering a full range of Jewish services, including daily minyanim, Shabbat hospitality, kosher meals, and community programming.
Getting Around
Public transit
San José has an extensive bus network that connects the city center with all neighborhoods and suburbs; buses are the most common and affordable public transport option.
The city also operates a commuter train (Tren Interurbano) with limited routes running between San José and nearby towns.
Rideshare
Uber and Didi operate in San José, providing reliable and safe rides at competitive prices; both apps are widely used by locals and tourists.
Car rental
Major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget have desks at Juan Santamaría International Airport and in downtown San José.
Rental rates are reasonable, and driving is straightforward, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
Airport
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is located about 20 km west of downtown San José, approximately a 30‑minute drive via Highway 1. Taxis, airport shuttles, and rideshare services are available; the airport offers duty‑free shops, restaurants, and car rental counters.
Good to know
Best time to visit
The best time to visit San José is during the dry season from December to April, when sunny days and mild temperatures make exploring the city most enjoyable.
Insider tips
Carry small denominations of Costa Rican colones for taxis and local markets; credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it goes a long way. Tipping is optional but appreciated (10% is standard in restaurants).
Safety & emergency
San José is generally safe for tourists, but exercise standard precautions: avoid isolated areas after dark, keep valuables secure, and use registered taxis or rideshare apps. In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.
Local time
4:53 AM
+4 hrs from NYC
Plug
Type A and B
120V
Currency
Costa Rican Colón
Kosher map of San Jose
Pick a place on the map or search an address or hotel to see what is kosher around it.