Every week someone asks me what to bring. Here's the honest answer: less than you think, but the right stuff. La Fortuna is rainforest country. The weather changes its mind constantly, and so will your plans.
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Don't leave home without these
A packable rain jacket
Afternoon rain is basically a daily appointment in green season. Bring something light that folds small. A heavy jacket just ends up living in your hotel room.
See the one I'd getShoes that can get wet
Trails get muddy and waterfall steps get slippery. You want real grip and something that dries fast. Leave the white sneakers at home, babe. They won't survive.
See the ones I'd getReef-safe sunscreen
The sun this close to the equator is no joke, even on cloudy days. Mineral sunscreen is also nicer to the rivers and hot springs you'll be swimming in.
See the one I'd getBug spray
You'll want it most around sunrise, sunset, and on night tours. Trust me on this one.
See the one I'd getYou'll thank me for these
- A dry bag for your phone on waterfall, boat, and rafting tours.
- Quick-dry clothes, because cotton stays damp forever in this humidity.
- Two swimsuits. Hot springs, waterfalls, rivers. One will always be wet.
- A light long-sleeve layer for cooler evenings and hungry bugs.
- A reusable water bottle, because hiking in the heat is thirsty work.
Leave these at home
- Jeans. They will never, ever dry.
- Fancy shoes. Nobody here is looking at your feet, I promise.
- Ten outfits. Laundry service in town is cheap and easy.
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