Should I pack cotton clothes for comfort?

Never pack cotton for rainforest hiking. Cotton absorbs moisture, takes hours to dry, and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria in 90% humidity. Stick to synthetic or merino wool materials.

How much rain gear do I actually need?

You need full waterproof coverage - jacket, pants, and pack cover. Even in dry season, afternoon thunderstorms are common and can dump 2 inches of rain in 30 minutes.

Can I buy hiking gear in Costa Rica?

Limited selection and higher prices in Costa Rica. San José has a few outdoor stores, but sizes and technical gear options are limited. Buy specialized rainforest gear at home.

What about boots - hiking shoes vs full boots?

Full hiking boots with ankle support. You'll walk on muddy, uneven terrain with exposed roots and rocks. Ankle injuries are common in rainforest hiking without proper support.

How to Pack Hiking Gear for Costa Rica's Rainforests

Pack waterproof everything, lightweight quick-dry clothes, and sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. The rainforest is hot, humid, and wet year-round, so prioritize breathable, moisture-wicking gear over heavy cotton items.

Choose waterproof hiking boots. Get boots with ankle support and aggressive tread. Leather boots take forever to dry in 90% humidity. Go for synthetic materials with drainage ports if possible. Break them in for 2 weeks before your trip.
Pack moisture-wicking base layers. Bring 3-4 synthetic or merino wool shirts, never cotton. Cotton stays wet and breeds bacteria in rainforest conditions. Pack one long-sleeve shirt for bug protection during dawn and dusk hikes.
Get a quality rain jacket and pants. You need breathable waterproof gear, not a plastic poncho. Look for pit zips and ventilation features. It rains hard and fast in the rainforest, often without warning.
Pack quick-dry hiking pants. Bring 2 pairs of lightweight synthetic pants that dry in under 2 hours. Convertible zip-off legs are useful for transitioning between humid forest and cooler cloud forest elevations.
Include gaiters and extra socks. Gaiters keep mud, leeches, and insects out of your boots. Pack 5-6 pairs of merino wool or synthetic hiking socks. Your feet will be wet daily.
Waterproof your electronics and documents. Use dry bags for phone, camera, and passport. Bring a waterproof case for your phone since you'll use it for photos in wet conditions. Humidity can damage electronics even when it's not raining.

Should I pack cotton clothes for comfort?: Never pack cotton for rainforest hiking. Cotton absorbs moisture, takes hours to dry, and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria in 90% humidity. Stick to synthetic or merino wool materials.
How much rain gear do I actually need?: You need full waterproof coverage - jacket, pants, and pack cover. Even in dry season, afternoon thunderstorms are common and can dump 2 inches of rain in 30 minutes.
Can I buy hiking gear in Costa Rica?: Limited selection and higher prices in Costa Rica. San José has a few outdoor stores, but sizes and technical gear options are limited. Buy specialized rainforest gear at home.
What about boots - hiking shoes vs full boots?: Full hiking boots with ankle support. You'll walk on muddy, uneven terrain with exposed roots and rocks. Ankle injuries are common in rainforest hiking without proper support.