En bici de San José a San Rafael

Roll out from central San José, the capital’s lively core of museums and markets, and head west toward La Sabana Metropolitan Park—the city’s big green lung and home to the National Stadium. From there, the route eases into quieter neighborhood streets as you angle toward Escazú.

It’s a short one at about 11.5 km, but expect bite-sized climbs (around 215 m of gain) mixed with some quick descents and a max elevation near 1,168 m. Most of it is on asphalt, with the odd rough patch and a sprinkle of cobblestone—take it easy if it’s wet. Traffic is busiest near downtown; once you’re out by the west side it calms down.

You’ll finish in San Rafael de Escazú, a leafy district known for cafés, restaurants, and hillside views—a nice spot to refuel. The area grew around coffee fincas and sits at the gateway to the mountains above Escazú, including trails toward Pico Blanco. Pack a light rain shell—afternoon showers are common.