Well show you the best time to visit Costa Rica no matter what your goal is the best overall trip, the cheapest, the least busy, and more. Because Costa Rica has many different climate regions, well discuss the areas on the Caribbean Coast, the Pacific Coast, and the middle of the country. Most elections are held in February. The two seasons are so different that knowing when to go to Puntarenas is an easy choiceany month from December through April. It is a democratic republic which is located in Central America. So youll also save a lot of money if you plan your visit during this time of year! The weather is phenomenal and rainfall tapers off considerably, so there are still reasons to go during this time. Knowing which months are dry or green seasons in the country is crucial as it will help you choose the best place and time to visit. Copyright 2023 Exploration Junkie. Here comes the part of our guide that many would flash by the headlines. You can see sea turtles at different times throughout the year, but the most famous spot to see them is in Tortuguero National Park on the north Caribbean coast, and July-October is the best time to see them nesting here. The beginning of January is a peak travel season in Costa Rica, as crowds from the Christmas and New Year holidays linger. These months have little to no rain in most of the country. Total rainfall averages less than one inch from January through March, a little more than one inch in May and December and eight inches or more from May through October. For those who love waterfall hiking, then here is your solution. There are beautiful coastlines and stunning landscapes to enjoy, along with many pretty coastal towns to visit. Overall, October is the coolest month of the year. 7. San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. Rain falls about half of the days in November, and 6 inches falling during the course of the month. Traveling during the rainy season also presents a chance to witness the thousands of turtles that come to deposit their eggs on the sandy beaches of Costa Rica. . On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 88 F and average low is 78 F. There are 16 days with rain, receiving about 7 inches of rain total. or less. If you want to surf, then it depends on the region. This was probably the advice I was given the most before heading to Costa Rica, forget mozzie spray. September to early December are the cheapest times to go to Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season throughout the country. Worst Weather The rainy season in Costa Rica, which lasts from May to November, is usually considered the worst time to travel there since the rains frequently cause widespread flooding and mudslides, making travel activities hazardous and difficult. It really depends on what your travel goals and priorities are. Best Rainy Season Activities. However, if you prefer enjoying your vacation/trip when there are fewer crowds, then the ideal time of year to visit Costa Rica is either May or November. In order to keep dry and avoid getting muddy whenever possible, make sure you pack the proper clothing and footwear. The most stable weather is between December and April. Despite its average economy, there is plenty you can enjoy. Costa Rica is known for its national parks and vast protected areas. To sail in Tahiti means to enjoy not only the beauty of the islands, but also the, Read More The Top 5 Places to Sail in TahitiContinue, California is mostly synonymous with the Hollywood entertainment industry, sunny beaches, and a temperate weather. Early April and late November are still sunny and dry and are great for visiting. Also, when it isnt rainy, it will still usually be cloudy. Decembers average rainfall of 18 inches equals the entire year of some islands such as the arid Aruba. May is sometimes referred to as the magical month. Here the Gringos are enjoying summer and escaping Winter at the same time. April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. Best time to beat the crowds with an average 39% drop in price. Hello guys, My name is Daria, and I'm a true Discovery Nut! On the other hand, there is frequently very little rain from December to April, and there may be no rain in some places. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 87 F and average low is 73 F. By the end of the month, you have 50% sunny days and 8 days of rain, but the rainy days decrease as the month goes on. January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. You'll pay more, deal with bigger crowds, and less availability for rooms, flights, and rentals, but hey - it's peak season for a reason. The Most Affordable Time to Visit Costa Rica. Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. It is also essential to note that the coldest months in the country are typically from September through November, though this varies from region to region. Most of the rain that falls in November comes towards the beginning of the month. The Southern Pacific Region of Costa Rica is an incredible area that delights and surprises tourists with memories of Costa Rica that they'll have for life. Sunsets are just horrible. Our advice is to book your holiday vacations well in advance to reserve the best hotel rooms and take advantage of any early bird specials. Therefore, knowing the ideal time and place to visit is essential for making the most of your tropical trip. Not a day goes by for me without planning new adventures and looking for some scenic spots. One of the advantages of visiting . What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? There are direct flights from San Jose to Tamarindo that take about 1 hour, but keep in mind that you'll have to factor in time for checking in and going through security at the airport. There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife. Located along the Pacific Coast, the park has light sand beaches, ancient rainforests, coral reefs, and clear water. Pacific Coast or Caribbean Coast? The wet season is also an ideal time to spot humpback whales in the Osa Peninsula. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 90 F and average low is 80 F. There are about 3 days with rain, receiving about 1 inch of rain total. Expect that if you leave valuable items in plain sight and unattended, such as on the beach or in the car, that they will be taken. Whereas the Nation is one of the most attractive in Central America, there are times you should avoid it as much as you can. The Nicoya Peninsula and the mountainous area around Rincon de la Vieja National Park have slight rainfalls compared to other places. Packing insect repellent is also vital because rainy weather increases mosquito infestations. Be sure to plan your stay before mid-December, because prices (and crowds) pick back up for Christmas break near the end of December. 1. The highlands tend to be cooler, whereas the beaches tend to be warmer. IMPORTANT NOTE: For each of these 3 regions, you will find representative averages for what you might expect. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 72 F. This is one of the wettest months for the region, with about 13 days of rain and 6 inches of rain. Read on to find out the best time to visit Costa Rica by season and region. From my own personal travel experience, the shoulder season is the best time to visit Costa Rica. So while we cant answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. Costa Rica ranks 16th on U.S. News & World Report's list of the world's best places to visit, and according to data collected from more than 1.6 million users worldwide on the travel app . Therefore, you may consider visiting Costa Ricas northern Pacific coast to enjoy the regions pleasant environment if youre looking for the countrys highest temperature. This Central American nation located between the Caribbean and Pacific coasts is endowed with wild rainforests, spectacular national parks, roaring waterfalls, and other natural wonders. If you love sunny weather, this is your time, especially for those who want to visit the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountains. Prices and crowds are at their peak, making this the most expensive and crowded time to visit. However, the Caribbean side and slope of Costa Rica, including Arenal Volcano, actually enjoys its best . Expect it to be warm and humid. The most popular sport in Costa Rica is soccer, or Futbol, as they call it. September to November sees the lowest crowds in Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season. First things first, there are two tropical seasons in Costa Rica: dry season and green season. And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). On the Pacific Coast, April to August has the best surfing waves for experienced surfers, while beginners will appreciate the somewhat smaller waves on the Pacific Coast from December to April. The San Jos, Costa Rica weather is wonderful, staying in the mid-'20s throughout the entire year. The mountain areas are constantly receiving rains and unpredictable weather changes this month, and you are highly discouraged from having outdoor camping this month. With fewer demand for airfare, accommodations, and rentals, prices are also cheaper during the low season. Those same two months are the worst months of the year for visiting the rest of the Caribbean because of the annual hurricane season. There truly is never a bad bad time to visit Costa Rica; however, May is the worst month to visit, as the rain is fairly high, and you dont have the added benefits of good surfing conditions or turtle or whale watching season. Tortuguero is the home of those who love turtles. The dense jungles and protected rain forests in national parks here are ideal destinations for anyone who loves to get out and see wildlife in their natural habitat. Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida ("pure life"), was declared the most environmentally advanced and happiest place on earth in 2016. You'll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica - and the worst time to plan your visit - in this quick travel guide. You should also plan ahead when booking accommodation facilities and activities to get a fair deal before the prices hike. These first few months of the dry season are particularly pleasant since the weather condition is warm and the skies are clear. Sitting at an elevation of 1,670 meters (5,480 feet), Arenal is one of Costa Rica's many volcanoes. Temperatures begin to drop as the hotel prices and number of tourists do. Yes, the answer depends on the individual. So, watch out. As stated in our introduction, Costa Rica is a democratic country whose president and two deputies are elected through a popular initiative. In addition, in November, beach activities are very low, crowds are still not picking up early, and this denies the chance to learn more about the culture of the Costa Ricans. The light rains during July and August are nothing compared to the deluges common in September through December. Nicaragua is home to the oldest city in all of Central America; The Ruins of Len Viejo. Monthly Rainfall & Temperature Averagesfor 1960-1990, For a general idea of monthly weather conditions, The World Bank Group has a great tool that shows the average monthly rainfall and temperature in Costa Rica over 20-30 year periods. If you are visiting the country, take note of the times we have given you and avoid the places we have warned you. Since Costa Rica is situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, different regions climates and typical temperatures are impacted by the difference in elevation. Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. They're also most crowded. Get your camera because here you can take one of your best photos. The annual rainfall in these regions ranges from 40 to 60 inches, while temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) almost all year long. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. millions of different wildlife and plant species, Best Time to Visit Hawaii | When to Go & Travel Tips, The 15 Best Hotels in Hawaii in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii in 2023, Is Hawaii Safe to Visit in 2023? Hotels and businesses are dragging to reopen or reinvest after the business had slowed down during the rainy peaks of September and October. The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! The worst months to visit Puntarenas are May through Octoberespecially September. And the only tradeoff is a little short-lived rainfall during your stay! Dry Seasons February, March, April, August (2nd half), September, October These months are the driest of the year with occasional rain usually occurring at night or early in the morning. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 15 days with rain, receiving about 6.5 inches of rain total. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). May, June and July are the rainiest. Though not common, there are reported cases of rapes, assaults, and robberies at different beaches. Simply opting to travel a few days before or after peak times can make a difference in crowd size and cost. What To Do in Costa Rica When It Rains? But be aware that your trip will be more expensive and a little less serene! Temperatures are much warmer than Limon with average daily highs reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit from January through August and dipping into the high 80s for the rest of the year. Plan ahead for travel over Presidents Day weekend,Spring Break, and Easter. The Caribbean Coast is generally hot, humid, and rainy year-round, with a short break in September and October. From scarlet macaws to slow-moving sloths, you will be astounded at the diversity of life youll find in this country. . Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, Therefore, to be on the safe side, you can opt to visit at the end of January or the start of February to avoid such inconveniences while still enjoying the great weather. Costa Rica is beautifully warm all year, with an average annual temperature of 80-90 Fahrenheit on the coasts and 75-80 in the countryside and on the mountainsides. If you're looking for the very warmest time to visit La Fortuna, the hottest months are April, March, and then February. Best time to visit Costa Rica Happily, the best weather coincides with Christmas, new Year, spring half term and the worst of the northern winters. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the entire year. The best advice is that you should wait until the political temperatures cool. In addition to having some of the sunniest days in the country, the Gold Coast has the least amount of rainfall. It still erupts from time to time, and if you're lucky, you'll be able to see lava flowing down the volcano. price over the last 2 weeks) or less. Beautiful water bodies surround it. Best Times To Visit Costa Rica The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). The country is, without a doubt, among the best Central American countries to visit. We'll go over the best (and worst) times to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more in this article. . The good thing with Costa Rica rains is that they start softly before gradually picking. But if beach crowds are more the issue, then the low tourist season of June . 2020 Scott S. Bateman, Heavy rains produce Costa Ricas famous rainforests. This coincides with cheaper rates and prices, so think of it as a bonus! Passports, electronics, money, and even sunglasses and shoes are easy targets and highly sought after by thieves. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 9 days of rain and 3 inches of rain falling during the month. 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, Historical Sites and Legends of Costa Rica. From the central capital city of San Jose to smaller towns that dot the dreamy coastlines (we especially love Quepos for its natural beauty and immersive cultural experience), Costa Rica is so alive with culture, tradition, and amazing foods. Source: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license), The Puntarenas monthly weather shows some important differences from Limon. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . The best time to visit Costa Rica depends a lot on what you want to do. 'It's so expensive' were the words on fellow travellers lips. If you must travel during this time be sure to check local weather conditions and plan your route accordingly. April typically marks the end of the dry season. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. Nicaragua's total GDP is approx. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. If we link to any product, you should assume that we'll receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. Latino U.S.A reported that during elections, there are economic tensions during the election month in Costa Rica. Therefore, the chance that you shall get competitive services is so low. On the Caribbean Coast, the average high is 85 F and the average low is 77 F. The area sees about 2 inches of rain, with an average of 4 rainy days per month. Costa Rica in January sees low rainfall across the country. No one is tired of receiving Christmas gifts, you can give your sons one of the most memorable gifts you ever have, and here they call it the Nino Dios Moment. See average monthly temperatures below. When to go to Sweden in spring Visiting Sweden in March - May I tried watching the sunset the other night, and it was just horrible. Costa Rica is a lot more expensive than it's neighbouring countries. The average temperature hovers around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26 degrees Celsius) but it can get down . | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica in 2023, 15 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Traveling, The 15 Best Hotels in Ocean City, MD in 2023, The 15 Best Hotels in Rome in 2023 | For All Budgets, The Best Hotels in Orlando in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Seattle in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Philadelphia in 2023.