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San José may not be the beachy postcard image most people picture when they think of Costa Rica, but the capital city has a charm all its own — especially when it comes to authentic, locally made souvenirs. From artisan markets to cozy coffee shops, San José offers a great selection of thoughtful keepsakes that reflect the country’s vibrant culture, nature, and community values.

Based on local insights, popular market finds, and souvenirs beloved by visitors and Ticos alike, here’s your guide to what to buy in San José — plus where to shop and helpful tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

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Top 10 Souvenirs from San José, Costa Rica

1. Costa Rican Coffee

It’s almost impossible to leave Costa Rica without grabbing some locally grown coffee. Look for beans from Tarrazú, Dota, or Naranjo, and try to buy from local roasters or cooperatives for the freshest flavor.

Commonly found in artisan stores, markets, and specialty cafés throughout the city.

2. Wooden Crafts (Especially from Sarchí)

Costa Rica’s most iconic woodcrafts often come from Sarchí, a town just outside San José. Look for hand-painted ox carts, bowls, coasters, and kitchen utensils, often made from native hardwoods.

3. Handmade Jewelry

Local artisans create beautiful bracelets, earrings, and necklaces using natural stones, seeds, shells, and recycled materials. These are lightweight, affordable, and full of character.

4. Painted Masks and Indigenous Art

Brightly painted Boruca masks, carved by Indigenous communities from the south, are a striking and meaningful souvenir. Some depict animals, spirits, or forest creatures — all with symbolic meaning.

5. Chorreador (Traditional Coffee Maker)

This simple wood-and-cloth coffee drip system is a classic Costa Rican tool. Many are decorated with local designs and make a great gift for coffee lovers.

6. Organic Chocolate and Cacao Products

Costa Rica produces excellent cacao, and you’ll find handcrafted chocolate bars, cocoa nibs, and even cacao tea in local shops. Many are organic and fair-trade certified.

7. Locally Made Soaps and Skincare

Markets often carry natural soaps, essential oils, and skincare products made with coffee grounds, coconut oil, volcanic clay, and other tropical ingredients.

8. Recycled Art and Eco-Friendly Gifts

Costa Rica is big on sustainability. You’ll find items like coin purses made from juice pouches, jewelry from repurposed materials, and tote bags made from recycled fabric.

9. T-shirts and Textiles with Pura Vida Vibes

You’ll find t-shirts, aprons, bags, and hammocks featuring toucans, sloths, volcanoes, and the famous “Pura Vida” slogan. Try to buy from local cooperatives or markets where items are handmade or printed in-country.

10. Hot Sauce and Local Spices

Costa Rica has a mild cuisine, but its people love salsa Lizano — a sweet, tangy brown sauce often used on rice and beans. You’ll also find hand-blended spice mixes, ideal for recreating Tico flavors at home.

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Where to Shop in San José

• Mercado Central (Central Market):
  A lively indoor market full of produce stalls, souvenir shops, coffee vendors, and small eateries. It’s a great place to shop like a local and pick up gifts without straying far from the city center.
• Mercado Artesanal (Artisan Market on Avenida 6):
  A quieter, more focused spot with rows of booths selling wooden goods, painted masks, woven bags, and jewelry. Many stalls are run by the artisans themselves.
• Sarchí (Day Trip from San José):
  If you have time, a short drive brings you to Sarchí, Costa Rica’s craft capital. It’s famous for its painted ox carts and woodwork, and many shops offer tours or demonstrations.
• Local Coffee Shops (e.g., Café del Barista, Caféoteca, Alma de Café):
  These cozy spots often sell gourmet beans, drip equipment, and artisan chocolate, perfect for gifting or stocking your kitchen.
• Cooperative Stores and Boutiques:
  Shops like Tiendas de Artesanía and fair-trade boutiques near Barrio Amón or Escalante stock ethically sourced souvenirs, often with a social or environmental mission.

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Shopping Tips for San José

• The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also commonly used.
• Bargaining is not as common as in some other countries, but polite negotiation might work in markets — especially for bulk purchases.
• Support cooperatives and women-led artisan groups when possible. Many handmade items support entire families or communities.
• Avoid buying animal products, shells, or coral, as these may be illegal to export or harmful to local ecosystems.
• Double-check labels for “Made in Costa Rica” if authenticity matters to you — some cheaper souvenirs are imported.

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Final Thoughts

Shopping in San José is a fun and rewarding way to experience Costa Rica’s creative side. Whether you bring home a chorreador coffee maker, a Boruca mask, or a bag of rich Tarrazú beans, you’ll return with more than a souvenir — you’ll carry a story, a craft, and a connection to the country’s vibrant heart.

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