For instance, due to its proximity to the Caribbean Sea, Tortuguero experiences hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall. One destination on most everyones must-see travel list is tropical Costa Rica. This is probably the quickest and most convenient option, but it's also pretty expensive individually. May, June and July are the rainiest. . 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. Otherwise, take any bus to Tilarn and . 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. Corcovado National Park is one of the largest lowland tropical rainforests in Central America and the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching. The toughest areas are the mountains, where nighttime temperatures can fall below 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius). 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. Truly, you can have a great time in this country any time of year. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 92 F and average low is 80 F. This is the hottest month of the year. Costa Rica during the rainy season is still a beautiful time to visit. As the heavy rainfall begins to wrap up in mid-December, its also one of the best times of year to spot wildlife on land and in the ocean. Authentic specialties like casado, gallo pinto, sopa negra, and more await your taste buds when you dive into the real Costa Rica off the beaten path. Like Limon, Puntarenas has steady temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from January through February and in July. This was probably the advice I was given the most before heading to Costa Rica, forget mozzie spray. The rainy season ends in October, which is the beginning of the shoulder season. Ed #2798 Oficina #8 However, it is good to note that this is a problem experienced in nations with the same economic strength as Costa Rica. Arguably, this is one of the worst months you should avoid if you are visiting Costa Rica. 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? Surfing and rafting are fantastic. However, the weather changes all year round due to the countrys two distinct seasons. . Find out the best time to visit Costa Rica with details on climate, seasons and events from Audley specialists. . Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. On a mission to witness the planet's beauty and diversity, he shares his experiences on this website through articles, videos, and photography, including interactive virtual tours. Join 19k+ in receiving Expert travel advice, news & promotions! Due to its relatively cheap currency against the U.S dollar, services are cheaper here. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. About every other day will have rain (on average), with about 6 inches of rainfall during the month. It really depends on what your travel goals and priorities are. Most popular time to fly with an average 27% increase in price. January and February are smack dab in the dry season, with plenty of sunny days and low rain. Packing insect repellent is also vital because rainy weather increases mosquito infestations. Also, when it isnt rainy, it will still usually be cloudy. On the typically rainy southern Caribbean Coast, the rain lightens up in September and October, making it a great time to visit. And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. Less favorable weather means fewer crowds hence cheaper costs. They attract fewer visitors from the Limon cruise port because of distance. However, some, Read More The Top Five Ski Resorts in CaliforniaContinue, Many people who visit Cape Cod do so to enjoy the outdoors. Its simple with our helpful travel tips! This is the mini summer of Costa Rica. 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. For those who love waterfall hiking, then here is your solution. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. So youll also save a lot of money if you plan your visit during this time of year! This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. Some of them include. If you love sunny weather, this is your time, especially for those who want to visit the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountains. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. April typically marks the end of the dry season. Costa Rica rarely experiences the direct impact of a hurricane on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts. At this time, you also have several festive celebrations, such as the Festival de la Luz in San Jose, which is held in the second week of the month. Source: Wikimedia, Total cruise visitors by month. Even though Costa Rica is a small country, it has vastly different weather patterns, thanks a variety of microclimates. There are three key factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit: the weather, the crowds, and the cost. 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 . . Caribeez.com, The Limon monthly weather shows the best and worst times to visit the port. You'll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica - and the worst time to plan your visit - in this quick travel guide. The temperature in Costa Rica. The mountains in the middle of the country create a rain shadow for the Pacific coast throughout part of the year. They have an amazing way of doing flowers. That time period shifts slightly depending on your goals for the trip. Now that you know the best time to visit Costa Rica and have a few seasoned traveler tips under your belt, youll be able to plan the perfect tropical vacation. See average monthly temperatures below. 7. Please note we recommend a budget of from 7,000 / $10,000 USD per person for our style of trip to this destination. 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. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. The three worst months of the year to visit Limon are July, November and especially December. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. 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. However, the Caribbean side and slope of Costa Rica, including Arenal Volcano, actually enjoys its best . In light of this, the ideal season to visit Costa Rica truly depends on which of these three considerations is most important to 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. Whether you book your trip during the best time to visit Costa Rica or during the worst, youre going to have an amazing tropical experience. While theres considerably more rainfall during these months, the rains in Costa Rica move through quickly and will still leave you with plenty of time to enjoy the sunny beaches and outdoor exploration. When to go to Sweden in spring Visiting Sweden in March - May Average rainfall is less than one inch from January through March and only a little more than an inch in April and December. They can often reach into the mid-'30s during the dry season. 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. For anyone who appreciates exploring new countries off the beaten path, this is arguably the best time of year to go for authentic experiences. Costa Rica Monthly Weather Averages: Rain, Temperatures, Costa Rica Travel Information: Tips, Attractions, Weather, Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. The most interesting feature of the Costa Ricans is their happiness. The rainiest months in Costa Rica are September and October. The currency of Costa Rica is Costa Rica Colon, and according to Xe.com, the 633.75 Colones are trading to the equivalent of $1. 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. You may even find you have the beach all to yourself. If Easter falls in April, you can expect a spike in tourist traffic over the holiday. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 73 F. There are about 11 days of rain and 4 inches of rain falling during the month. If you want to see the world, go see it! But for cruise visitors, the best and worst times also depend on whether they are visiting the Puntarenas cruise port on the Pacific coast or the Limon cruise port on the Caribbean coast. The worst time to visit Costa Rica is in September and October. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . At the same time, the central valley of San Jos experiences cool breezes and average temperatures of about 72 Fahrenheit (22 Celsius). They are not telling you that the rainy seasons are not over in Costa Rica now. Peak season is the busiest, most popular, and, thus, the most expensive time to visit Costa Rica. If you must travel during this time be sure to check local weather conditions and plan your route accordingly. This guide will help you make an informed decision about how to plan your adventure and know what to expect during your trip to Costa Rica, whether youre doing activities in La Fortuna or hanging out at the beach in Tamarindo! July through August the little high season is the overall best time to visit Costa Rica. 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. April to June and September to November is the rainy season in Costa Rica. Pacific Coast or Caribbean Coast? 'It's so expensive' were the words on fellow travellers lips. 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. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. The chart again shows that it is wise to avoid Limon in June and July, but take advantage of September and October. Considered a very peaceful country, it hasn't had an army since 1949 and is one of the safest countries in Central America. 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. 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. Tamarindo has dry periods in January, February and March. If you want to experience the lush vegetation and smaller crowds, rainy season might be your best bet. There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife. 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. However, there are many microclimates in Costa Rica. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 16 days with rain, receiving about 6.5 inches of rain total. Although the dry season offers the best weather for you to take advantage of the majority of outdoor activities, it is also the busiest travel period which may also turn out to be the worst time to visit Costa Rica. 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. Arenal. . All Rights Reserved. The two seasons are so different that knowing when to go to Puntarenas is an easy choiceany month from December through April. Here's some information to help you in your decision: The best months for good weather in Tamarindo are January, February, March, April, May, July, November and December. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. 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. One of the advantages of visiting . 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. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 91 F and average low is 80 F. There are 2 days with rain, receiving less than 1 inch of rain total. Dry and Rainy Seasons Costa Rica has two distinct seasons. Afternoons are rainy with typicallyclear mornings (perfect for morning tours). Knowing when to go can make a difference for cruise visitors who want to explore one of the most popular and wettest ecotourism destinations in the Western Hemisphere. The worst months are May through October because of. There are 3 days with rain, receiving less than 1 inch of rain total. Suppose you want to travel to any isolated or rural areas. With a booming tourism industry and tons of things for everyone to enjoy, anyone whos been to beautiful Costa Rica will tell you youve got to see it to believe it. The beginning of December is less-crowded, with difficult to predict weather. It is also dry season in Costa Rica, when clear skies accommodate travelers. If you plan to visit the country during this time, rent your car in Costa Rica ahead of time . , We visited in July and experienced several days of completely clear weather, and some days when there was an hour or two of afternoon rain not bad at all, especially when a lot of the tours in La Fortuna happen in the morning! The above weather chart shows that Limon maintains a steady high temperature throughout the year. Even the driest parts of Costa Rica, such as the North Pacific, still experience high rainfall. The rainiest months are September and . In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 72 F. This is a very dry month, with usually only a day of rain. 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. The weather in Costa Rica is pretty temperate year-round, but it is best avoided during the wet season. Cloudy skies are here to stay across the country for the next several months, and rainfall continues to increase. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 92 F and average low is 72 F, and there is usually only a day of rain. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. Therefore, the chance that you shall get competitive services is so low. If you enjoy the snow, low crowds, and value season pricing, January and February are the best . In order to keep dry and avoid getting muddy whenever possible, make sure you pack the proper clothing and footwear. The weather is phenomenal and rainfall tapers off considerably, so there are still reasons to go during this time. 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. Due to the high numbers of tourists present, accommodation facilities and most leisure activities/amenities are usually fully booked while the available ones are overpriced. Weather in February continues to be sunny and dry. It is in the nation's northern region and towers above the lush surroundings, where the best coffee globally is grown on plantations. 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. They are usually much cooler throughout the year than either Puntarenas or Limon. You get it all when you visit at this time of year! At this time, the weather is dry and bright. 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. This Central American country is home to wild jungles, incredible national parks, cascading waterfalls, and more. The chart above shows that Limon gets rain about 18 days a month on a fairly consistent basis throughout the year. Its terrain includes the Mojave Desert, Central Valley farmland, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, redwood forest, and cliff-lined beaches. Due to its proximity to the equator, Costa Rica is categorized as a tropical country without a definite winter season. Discover Costa Rica's cloud forests, coral reefs and volcanos in new and exciting ways on these four amazing tours; The 50 most attractive nationalities revealed: India is No.1, USA comes second . 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. If this is the only time you can visit, be sure to plan at least a year in advance since hotels fill up fast. As Costa Rica is only 10 degrees above the equator, the temperature doesnt fluctuate very much throughout the year. For the daring and the experienced, the biggest waves can be found during the rainier months of September and October. Always Pack a Raincoat. They're also most crowded. Costa Rica is known for its national parks and vast protected areas. The best person to decide when you should visit Costa Rica is you. If you intend to experience the rainforest in all its green glory, the green season is a great choice. Overall, October is the coolest month of the year. On average, the warmest months are February, March, April and May. 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. Natural wildlife and beauty aside, Costa Ricas bustling cities are another great reason to visit. Rainfall reaches more than three inches in October through December, but the totals are still low compared to the rest of the Caribbean. October through December are the worst months to visit Aruba. If a warm and sunny tropical vacation is what youre looking for, its hard to beat Costa Ricas pleasant climate. Now for the monthly breakdown. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 80 F. More than half the days are sunny, with 7 days of rain and 2 inches of rain falling. Best Times To Visit Costa Rica The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). Caving, zip lining, aerial tours, and jungle exploration are all great ways to get out and explore the beauty of Costa Rica. The next best time to visit Limon is during September and October, when the average rainfall is six and eight inches a month. Flight from San Jos to Billings. Visiting Costa Rica during the rainy season Costa Rica during the rainy season is still a beautiful time to visit. Youll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica and the worst time to plan your visit in this quick travel guide. What To Do in Costa Rica When It Rains? What is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica (And When To Go Instead). November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. But be aware that your trip will be more expensive and a little less serene! Plus earthquakes are almost a daily occurrence and floods are common in the rainy . What Species of Monkeys Are in Costa Rica and Where to See Them? 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. Keep in mind that the landscapes and climates of Costa Rica vary greatly by region. 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. Everything begins to look much more green as the rain brings the rainforest to life. 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 . So, watch out. All rights reserved. This tropical Central American country is nestled between Nicaragua (to the north) and Panama (to the south). What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? While the high season is the most popular travel time, the green season is often a favorite among Costa Rica Experts. San Jos has an average high temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit. The hottest months of the year in Costa Rica are from February to April, with March or April typically having the highest daily temperatures. It is surrounded by very welcoming locals who guide through the waters and the hiking trails. The temperatures in Costa Rica range between 20 - 30 C year-round. Weather in the popular capital of San Jos has more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. There are less tourists, particularly during the months of September-early November, and prices are thus also lower during these times. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023. It experiences low rainfall from December through April and higher rainfall from June through November. Though dusty, the roads are passable, wild animals can easily be identified, and tour guides charge the least. Plan ahead for travel over Presidents Day weekend,Spring Break, and Easter. Dont think your trip is doomed to heavy rains all day, every day if you visit from October through early December. Source: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license), The Puntarenas monthly weather shows some important differences from Limon. James Kaiser has guided visitors on when they should visit different places. While weather is the primary factor, other considerations include an increase in crowded beaches and resorts as well as higher prices. Costa Rica is bubbling over with life and energy. To the North, the Nation borders Nicaragua, and to the South, it has Panama. are many perks of traveling in rainy season, Where to Find Black Sand Beaches in Costa Rica, Costa Rica Experts Wins 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award, Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Month by Month, 8 Costa Rica Natural Mysteries You Have to See to Believe, 10 Top Costa Rica Honeymoon Bungalows & Suites, 3 Costa Rica Hotels Made The Travel & Leisure Top 100 in the World List, Costa Rica Expert Interview with Aaron Daker: top destinations, new hotels, & best months to travel. So while we cant answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. You wont run into frigid temperatures when you visit here, no matter what time of year you go. Temperature averages throughout the country range from 75F to 90F year-round. Although Costa Rica is frequently considered a warm country, there are a few locations where it could become a bit cold or freezing by Costa Rican standards. Were still in dry season,and the weather remains fantastic. On average, the warmest months are January, February, March, April, May, June and August. She finds almost all topics she writes about interesting, but her favorite subjects are travel and food. | 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. The main park entrance is on the road to El Castillo (turn off the main road 13km west of town). From scarlet macaws to slow-moving sloths, you will be astounded at the diversity of life youll find in this country. Talk with a Costa Rica Expert about the best destinations to visit during this time of year. Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. On the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. This is the driest month of the year, with an average of 1.3 inches of rainfall, and an average of 4 rainy days per month. Let's have a look at them. April, Enjoy the Sunshine, the Wildlife, and the Samantha Week, May, Witness the Transition to Rainy Seasons, December, Take Advantage of the Holiday Celebrations, October, the Terrible Roads in Parks and Low Hotel Season, November, The Month with the Highest Number of Places You Should Avoid, The Best Places You Can Visit at Any Time in Costa Rica, Things to Avoid When You are in Costa Rica, The Five Finest Mangusta Yachts of All-Time, 10 Reasons Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences is the Perfect Group Getaway in Cabo, Mexico, The 20 Best Things to do in Tampere, Finland, How Ali Wong Achieved a Net Worth of $3 Million, Eight Reasons to go to French Polynesias Marquesas Islands, How Lisa Rinna Achieved a Net Worth of $10 Million, 20 Cities with The Worst Weather in Europe. 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. April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. Not all is gone for those who want to compare the green and the dry weather. Animals are still hiding in the thick bushes, and you must travel for so long before seeing them. The Ostional Wildlife Refuge in the Guanacaste Province of Nicoya Peninsula is among the best locations to witness this phenomenon. At the Nicoya Peninsula, plants are starting to flower, and you can take one of the best photos you have ever had. The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! September to November sees the lowest crowds in Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season. If you want to enjoy your vacation in the ideal weather, then December and January are the best time to visit Costa Rica. Travelers can still enjoy clear skies, although the vegetation, particularly on the North Pacific Coast, has lost some of its vibrant green sparkle after months of little rain. The best time to visit Costa Rica depends a lot on what you want to do.
