Weather in the popular capital of San Jos has more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. On average, the warmest months are January, February, March, April, May, June and August. The first window is during February and March when the city experiences an average of about eight to nine inches of rain each month, according to 30 years of data from the World Weather Organization. At the end of the month, the big crowds which had turned up to celebrate the Easter holiday start to go low, and the hotels charge the cheapest. Beautiful water bodies surround it. Its important to note when talking about the rainy season in Costa Rica that often rain will fall mostly in the afternoon, so the mornings will still be clear for your beach time or activities. The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is between April through June. Caribeez.com, The Limon monthly weather shows the best and worst times to visit the port. Next-door neighbours Nicaragua Dropdown content and Panama Dropdown content make the easiest and most obvious add-ons to a sojourn in Costa Rica. 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. Most of the rain that falls in November comes towards the beginning of the month. Calle 15, San Jos, 133391-1000, Costa Rica, Phone: +5-06-22-57-72-02 Top rated last minute places for couples: Getaways from DC, OK resorts, From Seattle, SD resorts, Bahamas, Casinos near NYC, Lava Tubes Flagstaff, Pueblo, November 7. They are more likely to experience an increase in total rainfall. According to Audley Travel, December is probably the best time for those who love outdoor activities. 2. Therefore, the chance that you shall get competitive services is so low. 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. Oh, and before we forget, December gives you another opportunity to see the extraordinary decorations by the Costa Ricans. May through November is the green season. The weather is amazing with little rain to ruin your outdoor plans, crowds are moderate, and pricing for airfare, accommodations, and car rentals are lower than in the true high season. Join 19k+ subscribers in receiving FREE travel advice, news & promotions! He picks out April as one of the best months you should visit Costa Rica. You can choose from among leisure activities. Even if you go during the height of the rainy season or peak tourism times, youre going to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of this country. 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. Here you can do diving, mountain climbing, and snorkeling, among other activities. Julien is an exploration-minded, curiosity-driven traveler and blogger. In this section, were breaking down the climate in Costa Rica through all the months of the year. Hello guys, My name is Daria, and I'm a true Discovery Nut! In Guanacaste, the most arid region of the country, the foliage begins to turn golden. April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. Some of the worst times to visit are also the best in terms of weather, little rainfall, and wildlife spotting opportunities! The rains can cause widespread flooding and mudslides making travel difficult and dangerous. Prices and crowds are at their peak, making this the most expensive and crowded time to visit. The beautiful flowering trees that flourish during this period, such as the Corteza Amarilla, which exhibits an amazing blaze of yellow blossoms under the scorching sun, will stand out among the dried leaves. Here's some information to help you in your decision: The best months for good weather in Liberia (Guanacaste) are January, February, March, April, November and December. or less. But times change. Traveling to new places has changed our lives, and we hope to share our experience, insight, and passion with you in order to inspire you to change yours as well! If you want to enjoy your vacation in the ideal weather, then December and January are the best time to visit Costa Rica. January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. It emerged into the Caribbean Sea to the East and the West, Pacific waters. The Nation has an estimated population of almost 5 million. If Easter falls in April, you can expect a spike in tourist traffic over the holiday. Were still in dry season,and the weather remains fantastic. James Kaiser has guided visitors on when they should visit different places. Unlike Limon, Puntarenas has much more distinct dry and rainy seasons. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. 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. Flying. Dont think your trip is doomed to heavy rains all day, every day if you visit from October through early December. 2017 Scott S. Bateman, Despite heavy year-round rain, clear skies are possible like this one in Zacero. Costa Rica is, hands down, a fun vacation destination You have volcanoes rainforests gorgeous Pacific and Caribbean beaches exciting wildlife encounters and adventure activities. You must also be aware that some locations are susceptible to flooding and landslides. . Around 75% of the country's 6,000,000 people live on less than $2 per day, well below the poverty line of most countries. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Tamarindo has dry periods in January, February and March. This is when temperatures peak between 84 degrees Fahrenheit to 87 degrees Fahrenheit and rain stays to a minimum. September can be a great month to travel or a washout, depending on where you are in Costa Rica. The country is, without a doubt, among the best Central American countries to visit. Costa Ricas warm, tropical climate is one reason tourists flock to the country during the peak season. Multiple pools, Read More 10 Reasons Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences is the Perfect Group Getaway in Cabo, MexicoContinue, Until not too long ago, Tampere was a slightly gritty town that was better known for its industry than its beauty. In such a scenario, local conservative members may discriminate against you if you are from a country that supports a topic they are not comfortable with. Cruise activity in the Caribbean declines as a result, so September and October are months when people are more likely to visit the eastern coast of Costa Rica for longer stays. The Costa Rica market is flooded with hard drugs such as cocaine, and there are instances where even medicinal drugs are stuffed with them to recruit new drug customers. The start of green season in May is a much needed cool off from the intense heat of the dry season. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter. Most elections are held in February. Credit: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license). Most popular time to fly with an average 27% increase in price. Talk with a Costa Rica Expert about the best destinations to visit during this time of year. For anyone who appreciates exploring new countries off the beaten path, this is arguably the best time of year to go for authentic experiences. In Costa Rica will find plenty of exhilarating activities taking place in the greenest habitat and surrounded by exotic wildlife. In May, the rains had started to pick up in most parts of the country, roads were still passable, and hotels were still within the price ranges of April. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. The worst months are May through October because of. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. Cloudy skies predominate, and there are 15 days with rain, receiving about 6 inches of rain total. It is also dry season in Costa Rica, when clear skies accommodate travelers. In light of this, the ideal season to visit Costa Rica truly depends on which of these three considerations is most important to you. 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. Many visitors spend an average of 7 days in Costa Rica. At the end of April, rain begins to fall in the Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Dominical, and Uvita), which regulates the temperatures there. It gives amazing green landscapes and lush. Costa Rica Monthly Weather Averages: Rain, Temperatures, Costa Rica Travel Information: Tips, Attractions, Weather, Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. The trade winds come in off the Caribbean Side of Costa Rica during the dry season and the strong prevailing wind pattern creates a rain shadow on the Pacific . See average monthly temperatures below. They include: According to the Culture Trip, theft is a common type of crime in Costa Rica, so the chances of you losing your values to this are so high. These first few months of the dry season are particularly pleasant since the weather condition is warm and the skies are clear. The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. You get it all when you visit at this time of year! Wildlife watching: hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. Its climate status can be roughly divided into two seasons: the dry season, also known as the high season, and the rainy season, also known as the green season. The mountains in the middle of the country create a rain shadow for the Pacific coast throughout part of the year. Costa Rica September. Costa Rica Climate Guide. All said and done; we hope that you shall enjoy your stay in Costa Rica. The capital city of San Jos and many interior locations attract visitors from Puntarenas for the citys nightlife and natural attractions of the surrounding area. However, there are many microclimates in Costa Rica. Rainy season in Costa Rica is generally beginning of May to end of November. 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. As the month goes on, the drier and sunnier it will become, with about 40-50% of the days in November being sunny by the end of the month. If this is the only time you can visit, be sure to plan at least a year in advance since hotels fill up fast. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. There is about 2.5 inches of rainfall rain with an average of 5 rainy days per month. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 88 F and average low is 78 F. There are 12 days with rain, receiving about 5 inches of rain total, with rain decreasing throughout the month. Peak season is the busiest, most popular, and, thus, the most expensive time to visit Costa Rica. July through August the little high season is the overall best time to visit Costa Rica. It allows you to swap your heavy winter clothing with admirable carnival costumes. If you're looking for the very warmest time to visit La Fortuna, the hottest months are April, March, and then February. When you visit at this time of year, youll only get glimpses of the ideal Costa Rican weather because theres so much rainfall. However, theres no getting around it rainy season is, well, rainy. Average rainfall is less than one inch from January through March and only a little more than an inch in April and December. Wildlife watching:loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. Whether youre looking for lively metro areas with tons of shopping, accommodations, and restaurant options or a tucked-away towns with vibrant and authentic Costa Rican culture, youll find it here. This is the mini summer of Costa Rica. You will notice that some are closer to the roads, and their health starts to pick up. Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida ("pure life"), was declared the most environmentally advanced and happiest place on earth in 2016. This is probably the quickest and most convenient option, but it's also pretty expensive individually. Costa Rica is a dream destination, with epic surfing, misty cloud forests, and wilderness and wildlife that will take your breath away.Costa Rica is known for adventure travel, but it is also making strides in sustainable and accessible travel initiatives.This Central American country's small size means that travelers can enjoy a wide variety of experiences in a short trip. The warmest time of year is generally late March where highs are regularly around 88F (31.1C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 65F (18.3C) at night. . The Ostional Wildlife Refuge in the Guanacaste Province of Nicoya Peninsula is among the best locations to witness this phenomenon. San Jos and the interior has one big difference with the cruise ports on either coast of the country. The average temperature hovers around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26 degrees Celsius) but it can get down . 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. Costa Rica rarely experiences the direct impact of a hurricane on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts. If you want to spend time on the beach, the dry season is likely the best time for you. Therefore, there are certain things you should keep in mind if you intend to travel to Costa Rica during the rainy season to stay secure and comfortable. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. The green season typically experiences sunny mornings (great for morning excursions) and afternoon rain showers (perfect for a rejuvenating afternoon repose). Those same two months are the worst months of the year for visiting the rest of the Caribbean because of the annual hurricane season. To the North, the Nation borders Nicaragua, and to the South, it has Panama. Suppose you want to travel to any isolated or rural areas. 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. One thing is for sure, though, your vacation in Costa Rica will be an incredible experience youll never forget! Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. They are usually much cooler throughout the year than either Puntarenas or Limon. This tropical Central American country is nestled between Nicaragua (to the north) and Panama (to the south). Wildlife watching:Antarctic humpback whales; green, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, Related Article: 10 Costa Rica Rainy Season Travel Perks. And with fewer crowds, youll feel that youve got the beach, park, or town to yourself. The shoulder or green season from May to mid-June and November has plenty of appeal. You have an added advantage if you speak English and Spanish because those are the official and dominant languages. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. Wildlife watching:Alaska/California humpback whales; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, A beautiful, clear day on the Nicoya Peninsula from Hotel Punta Islita. It is unusual for Limon weather to get a break in September and October. While the high season is the most popular travel time, the green season is often a favorite among Costa Rica Experts. The Most Affordable Time to Visit Costa Rica. Therefore, different regions in the country have very different scenery and weather. It is best to keep a raincoat close at all times. Start Here Caribbean Costa Rica The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023, Written by: Author Debra Carpenter |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. Rain falls approximately every other day (on average), with about 7 inches of rainfall during the month. 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. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. First things first, there are two tropical seasons in Costa Rica: dry season and green season. Youll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica and the worst time to plan your visit in this quick travel guide. The weather during this period is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s. In this article, we shall guide you to know the best and the worst times you should visit Costa Rica. . It really depends on what your travel goals and priorities are. This is a mixed blessing as you wont burn as easily, but it can inhibit views sometimes. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 91 F and average low is 80 F. There are 7 days with rain, receiving about 2 inches of rain total. Keep in mind that the landscapes and climates of Costa Rica vary greatly by region. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 91 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 10 days of rain and 4 inches of rain falling during the month. Arenal, at 1,670 meters above sea level, is undoubtedly the most well-known of Costa Rica's volcanic giants since it is one of the world's top ten most active volcanoes. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. They're also most crowded. Best Rainy Season Activities. Therefore, you may consider visiting Costa Ricas northern Pacific coast to enjoy the regions pleasant environment if youre looking for the countrys highest temperature. However, at this time, you should avoid Drake Bay, Corcovado, because the rains arrive early. But they do give some guidelines on how to reduce the chance of running into bad weather. Pacific Coast or Caribbean Coast? You'll find significant rain almost every day. Due to its relatively cheap currency against the U.S dollar, services are cheaper here. The Overmarine group is a shipyard and company that has always produced the Mangusta range of Yachts. But look out for the rest of the year. With fewer demand for airfare, accommodations, and rentals, prices are also cheaper during the low season. San Jos has weather that is more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. Here comes the part of our guide that many would flash by the headlines. These are home to millions of different wildlife and plant species some you cant find anywhere else. Arenal and its surroundings make a . In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 10 days of rain and 4.5 inches of rain falling during the month. The ideal weather means there will be large crowds, resulting in higher costs of tours, accommodation, and flights. There are a lot of candidates for the most treacherous, risky, menacing peril awaiting visitors to Costa Rica - crocodiles in the estuaries, dengue mosquitoes in the swamps, deadly vipers in the rainforest, and psychos behind the wheel of cars, trucks and buses. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). One other way of deciding which months are best for destinations in Costa Rica is by looking at the average number of days that it rains each month. 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. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 87 F and average low is 72 F,, with about 14 days of rain and 6 inches of rain. Unfortunately, one of the most common crimes in Costa Rica is theft. December through April is the dry season. Source: WikimediaThe best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease.The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. Hotel availability is limited over these populartravel dates, and some hotels increase rates over peak travel dates. Shoulder season in Costa Rica is April and November, when the weather shifts between being sunny and fairly dry to being overcast and rainy as the month goes on in April, and then turns from rainy to dry and sunny by the end of November. 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. At elevations above sea level, often referred to as the lowlands, the temperature is typically approximately 79 Fahrenheit (26 Celsius), whereas, in the so-called highlands, it is typically 55 Fahrenheit (13 Celsius). First, let us say that theres truly no bad time to visit Costa Rica. The Nicoya Peninsula and the mountainous area around Rincon de la Vieja National Park have slight rainfalls compared to other places. But, unsurprisingly, that's also the cheapest time to travel. Costa Rica is a place that almost everyone has on their list of places to visit. For the daring and the experienced, the biggest waves can be found during the rainier months of September and October. At this time, the weather is dry and bright. Copyright 2023 The Discovery Nut | Privacy Policy, Best time to visit Costa Rica + When to Avoid A complete guide [2023], 7 Days In Costa Rica: How To Plan Your Itinerary, 22 Best Things To Do In Costa Rica in 2023. But Costa Rica's two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the year. There is generally a spike in tourist traffic over Easter and the week leading up to it. Exact veranillo days and duration vary from year to year, and may even continue into the start of August. This a tough topic. Rainy Seasons May, June, July, November, December, January. Ask the locals or your tour guide if you do not understand what to do. The two seasons are so different that knowing when to go to Puntarenas is an easy choiceany month from December through April. This is partly the result of higher elevations. As you move south along the Pacific coast, humidity levels rise. Rainfall reaches more than three inches in October through December, but the totals are still low compared to the rest of the Caribbean. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 90 F and average low is 72 F. This is a very dry month, with usually only a day of rain. Mexico or Costa Rica? I'm happy that you landed on my page and hope to inspire your wanderlust and encourage you to get outside your comfort zone. 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, Historical Sites and Legends of Costa Rica. Therefore, knowing the ideal time and place to visit is essential for making the most of your tropical trip. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. For those who love waterfall hiking, then here is your solution. The park is over 163 square miles, covering nearly half of the Osa Peninsula, yet remains one of the most remote regions of Costa Rica. 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. Corcovado National Park is one of the largest lowland tropical rainforests in Central America and the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching. Liberia (Guanacaste) has dry periods in January, February and March. Study up and see how you can optimize your Costa Rican getaway without breaking the bank: If you want an unforgettable tropical vacation, Costa Rica is one of the best destinations. It is the home of 400 varieties of birds and 2500 plant species and has more than 100 mammals. Costa Rica during the dry season is lovely warm weather, sunny days, clear skies, and infrequent rain. The event brings in more than 1500 musicians who will entertain you. So, watch out. It is so bad that hotels and businesses are closed on the South Pacific coast. The temperatures in Costa Rica range between 20 - 30 C year-round. In Nicaragua the rainy season means an hour of rain in the afternoon, and it's gorgeous at this time of year. The Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo are the most popular places to visit in May. When To Go Instead (Best Time To Visit Costa Rica), Top 5 Most Active Volcanoes to Visit in Costa Rica & What To Know About Them. DONT FORGET: Renting a car in Costa Rica ahead of your trip will help you to save hundreds of dollars and also ensure you will have a car when you get there. Costa Rica ranks top among the nations with the happiest people in the world. The Nation values family as the basic social unit, with children staying with their families until they get married. Costa Rica Experts 2023. They are not telling you that the rainy seasons are not over in Costa Rica now. The rain brings out the best in Costa Ricas flora. For instance, due to its proximity to the Caribbean Sea, Tortuguero experiences hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall. It is also clear that there is no specific worst time to visit Costa Rica since its diversity in terms of seasons and climatic conditions presents unique, attractive features and activities to satisfy the needs of different types of tourists. It was founded in 1985 as a family passion and today, it is among worlds leading producers of, Read More The Five Finest Mangusta Yachts of All-TimeContinue, There is something for everyone at sprawling 222-room Hacienda Encantada in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The hottest month of the year is usually just about 3 degrees Celsius warmer than . Sitting at an elevation of 1,670 meters (5,480 feet), Arenal is one of Costa Rica's many volcanoes. What To Do in Costa Rica When It Rains? The coasts are generally warmer, and the highlands are generally cooler. Youll have an easier time booking a last-minute vacation at this time of year with fewer crowds and less tourists choosing to visit.