Some of the worst times to visit are also the best in terms of weather, little rainfall, and wildlife spotting opportunities! Nature and wildlife enthusiasts should also consider visiting during the dry season. The BEST Time to visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Every of the Year Corcovado National Park is one of the largest lowland tropical rainforests in Central America and the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching. Plus earthquakes are almost a daily occurrence and floods are common in the rainy . This is your favorite month for those who want to enjoy the weather transition. Prices are slightly cheaper, crowds arent bad, and the weather is excellent because this is the veranillo or little summer in Costa Rica. 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. 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. July is during mini-summer, where there is rain, but its less than other months. Here is your chance if you have never seen the green sea turtle nesting sites. Limon gets hit hard with rain throughout most of the year, but the Puntarenas cruise port on the Pacific coast fares much better. 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. That being said, March and April have the highest temperatures. The Most Affordable Time to Visit Costa Rica. The month is also characterized by some slight drizzles in the evening, which welcome the mild temperatures of the night. Keep in mind that as you move through different altitudes and regions, the climate can change in minutes. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. 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. Best Rainy Season Activities. While the high season is the most popular travel time, the green season is often a favorite among Costa Rica Experts. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: A Complete Guide And Tips - Travelila 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? But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Naturally, human beings wish to hear the good side of the story before the bad one. The best time to visit Costa Rica overall is July through August you get the best, most balanced experience during this time, called the little high season.. Many report that November and early December are the best times to go on a budget. . According to Audley Travel, December is probably the best time for those who love outdoor activities. This was probably the advice I was given the most before heading to Costa Rica, forget mozzie spray. The best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease. All rights reserved. Palmeros Festival in Costa Rica takes place in January and draws in a ton of visitors (about 1 hour from San Jose) and includes concerts, dancing, and food sampling. 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. Nicaragua folklore dress code. If a warm and sunny tropical vacation is what youre looking for, its hard to beat Costa Ricas pleasant climate. The Nation values family as the basic social unit, with children staying with their families until they get married. 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. 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. Therefore, knowing the ideal time and place to visit is essential for making the most of your tropical trip. Barrio La California, 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. price over the last 2 weeks) or less. In December, the temperatures range from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. The Weather and Climate in Costa Rica - TripSavvy Best Time to Visit Costa Rica - Two Weeks in Costa Rica The rest . December through April is the dry season. $264. This a tough topic. She finds almost all topics she writes about interesting, but her favorite subjects are travel and food. These first few months of the dry season are particularly pleasant since the weather condition is warm and the skies are clear. Crocodiles occupy many, and some have bull sharks. They are more likely to experience an increase in total rainfall. Most Pacific Coast and the Central Mountains receive a lot of sunshine during these warmer months. Wildlife watching: Alaska/California humpback whales; leatherback & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast inMarch; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, Related Article: Costa Rica Spring Break Survival Guide. The vegetation is lush, waterfalls are high, and you have a good chance to see whales, nesting turtles in some regions, and enjoy surfing on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. 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. Thinking of planning your trip somewhere tropical and not quite settled on Costa Rica? From scarlet macaws to slow-moving sloths, you will be astounded at the diversity of life youll find in this country. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. When to go to Sweden in spring Visiting Sweden in March - May Cloudy skies are here to stay across the country for the next several months, and rainfall continues to increase. January through March is typically the worst time to visit Costa Rica. Due to its relatively cheap currency against the U.S dollar, services are cheaper here. 5 Reasons to NEVER Travel to Costa Rica Costa Rica rarely experiences the direct impact of a hurricane on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts. In contrast to Limon, these destinations average about one to two inches a month in February and March. 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. Some are harmful to your health, while others risk your security. However, the weather changes all year round due to the countrys two distinct seasons. 30 Tips Before Travelling In Costa Rica | 2021 Travel Guide There is generally a spike in tourist traffic over Easter and the week leading up to it. Wildlife watching: hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. Exact veranillo days and duration vary from year to year, and may even continue into the start of August. Unlike Limon, Puntarenas has much more distinct dry and rainy seasons. Rains typically pass quickly at this time of year, delivering much-needed hydration to the lush jungles and rain forests without sticking around long enough to make your beach trip a waste. Top 5 Most Active Volcanoes to Visit in Costa Rica & What To Know About Read on to find out the best time to visit Costa Rica by season and region. Monteverde is a famous moist and cloudy forest and ranks high among the best natural tourist destinations in the world. May through November is the green season. This is the mini summer of Costa Rica. Costa Rica boasts 800 miles of pristine coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Costa Rica September. 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. Nature is all around you, like this small frog spotted on our journey. In this section, were breaking down the climate in Costa Rica through all the months of the year. Many visitors spend an average of 7 days in Costa Rica. If you want to see the world, go see it! 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. It is the home of 400 varieties of birds and 2500 plant species and has more than 100 mammals. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. But they do give some guidelines on how to reduce the chance of running into bad weather. 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. 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. Destination Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec; Arenal Volcano: 28 . There are some places which, if you make the right decisions on when to visit them, will give you the most extraordinary experience you will ever have. May through November is the green season. Since these months fall between peak seasons, there are fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices. 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. These same two months are among the most popular months for western Caribbean cruises because other destinationssuch as Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Roatanalso have lighter rain during the same time. September can be a great month to travel or a washout, depending on where you are in Costa Rica. The worst time to visit Costa Rica. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. July is very similar to June, with about 16 rainy days and 7 inches of rainfall throughout the month. The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? The transition months from dry to rainy are April and May. If you want to spend time on the beach, the dry season is likely the best time for you. September and October These two months are by far the rainiest in Costa Rica. Rainy Seasons May, June, July, November, December, January. But there are certainly bonuses to traveling here during the low season. The good thing with Costa Rica rains is that they start softly before gradually picking. The Caribbean Coast experiences a brief respite in September and October but is otherwise hot, humid, and wet all year. Things You Should Never Do While Visiting Costa Rica - Culture Trip What is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica (And When To Go Instead). On average, the warmest months are January, February, March, April, May, June and August. 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. Over 7 inches of rain (on average) will fall in October. The end of November marks the start of Costa Ricas busy season, as holidays and cold weather are a great excuse to escape. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 93 F and average low is 73 F, with about 4 days of rain, with an inch of rain falling . 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). The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. 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. 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. When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Vacation? A dry season runs from December through April, and a rainy season runs from May through the end of November. 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. Plus, there are no crowds. First, let us say that theres truly no bad time to visit Costa Rica. 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Costa Rica This is the peak of green season on the Pacific Coast, but dont let the rain keep you away. The three worst months of the year to visit Limon are July, November and especially December. During General Election However, it is good to note that this is a problem experienced in nations with the same economic strength as Costa Rica. As Costa Rica is only 10 degrees above the equator, the temperature doesnt fluctuate very much throughout the year. It is so bad that hotels and businesses are closed on the South Pacific coast. Next-door neighbours Nicaragua Dropdown content and Panama Dropdown content make the easiest and most obvious add-ons to a sojourn in Costa Rica. On the other hand, there is frequently very little rain from December to April, and there may be no rain in some places. It is the period of heavy rainfall though being a tropical country, about of the skies pouring can be expected anytime. These are home to millions of different wildlife and plant species some you cant find anywhere else. You have an added advantage if you speak English and Spanish because those are the official and dominant languages. Source . One thing is for sure, though, your vacation in Costa Rica will be an incredible experience youll never forget! Youll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica and the worst time to plan your visit in this quick travel guide. Click here to learn how to make the most out of your trip. 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. Although they're tightly packed into the waist of the Americas, each Central American nation boasts its own character, attractions and heritage. What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is between April through June. Check my guide to visiting Irazu Volcano a perfect place to visit during Costa Ricas dry season. It experiences low rainfall from December through April and higher rainfall from June through November. The rainiest months in Costa Rica are September and October. Best time to beat the crowds with an average 39% drop in price. Both Limon and Puntarenas lie far enough south that they usually avoid either Pacific or Caribbean hurricanes. 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. 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. Suppose you want to travel to any isolated or rural areas. Its terrain includes the Mojave Desert, Central Valley farmland, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, redwood forest, and cliff-lined beaches. Not a day goes by for me without planning new adventures and looking for some scenic spots. Yes, the answer depends on the individual. Youll have an easier time booking a last-minute vacation at this time of year with fewer crowds and less tourists choosing to visit. 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. Animals are still hiding in the thick bushes, and you must travel for so long before seeing them. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. Rainfall increases during October, with of the days seeing some rainfall. The most popular sport in Costa Rica is soccer, or Futbol, as they call it. Best time to visit Bolivia - responsiblevacation.com It is unusual for Limon weather to get a break in September and October. The event brings in more than 1500 musicians who will entertain you. The chart again shows that it is wise to avoid Limon in June and July, but take advantage of September and October. Costa Rica Monthly Weather Averages: Rain, Temperatures, Costa Rica Travel Information: Tips, Attractions, Weather, Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. There are two distinct seasons in Costa Rica. Source: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license), The Puntarenas monthly weather shows some important differences from Limon. 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. Taking the last general elections, for example, there were serious concerns among the conservatives that there would be a gay deputy president in the country. If you want to enjoy your vacation in the ideal weather, then December and January are the best time to visit Costa Rica. 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. Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. Arguably, this is one of the worst months you should avoid if you are visiting Costa Rica. In this article, we shall guide you to know the best and the worst times you should visit Costa Rica. Julien is an exploration-minded, curiosity-driven traveler and blogger. You can see many animals in Costa Rica at any time of the year, including monkeys, coati, and sloths, crocodiles, and macaws. Like in the United States, the months of August, September and October present the . Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, The best advice is that you should wait until the political temperatures cool. Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. The green season typically experiences sunny mornings (great for morning excursions) and afternoon rain showers (perfect for a rejuvenating afternoon repose). Cheap Flights from Costa Rica to Montana from $1,038 - KAYAK This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. You shall witness unmatched street parades, bull runs, dancing, and rodeos. Costa Rica during the rainy season is still a beautiful time to visit. Less favorable weather means fewer crowds hence cheaper costs. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica (Factual Data, Pros & Cons) - Eco Lodges 5. San Jos has weather that is more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. Learn how your comment data is processed. The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. 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. As stated in our introduction, Costa Rica is a democratic country whose president and two deputies are elected through a popular initiative. Caving, zip lining, aerial tours, and jungle exploration are all great ways to get out and explore the beauty of Costa Rica. Costa Rica Pacific vs Caribbean Coast: Which is Best for You? April typically marks the end of the dry season. . Check out this guide next: Best Time to Visit Hawaii | When to Go & Travel Tips. Talk with a Costa Rica Expert about the best destinations to visit during this time of year. Despite its average economy, there is plenty you can enjoy. Though dusty, the roads are passable, wild animals can easily be identified, and tour guides charge the least. Costa Rica is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. September to November sees the lowest crowds in Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season. However, the Caribbean side and slope of Costa Rica, including Arenal Volcano, actually enjoys its best . The start of green season in May is a much needed cool off from the intense heat of the dry season. And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. Turtle Watching Season 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). 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! Best Times to Visit Costa Rica | U.S. News Travel Hello guys, My name is Daria, and I'm a true Discovery Nut! We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. Understanding the Costa Rica climate can be a huge help in determining the best time to visit Costa Rica. Best time to visit Costa Rica - Lonely Planet 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. , 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 rain brings out the best in Costa Ricas flora. Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. We enter peak season for travel at the end of December around the holidays. , March is still part of the dry season, and has slightly less sunny days than January and February, with about 50% of the days being sunny . In this post, we'll cover the best (and worst) time to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more. 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. This Central American country is home to wild jungles, incredible national parks, cascading waterfalls, and more. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Best and Worst Times to Visit Costa Rica (2023) Youll see sloths, monkeys, humpback whales, sea turtles, and migratory birds in abundance in November and December sounds like an ideal vacation! Puntarenas and San Jos get rain more than 20 days a month from May through October and peak at 25-26 days in September and October. 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. Liz loves the process of researching information, learning new things, and putting into words what others who share her interests might like to read. Costa Rica is best visited between mid-December and April. Where to Stay in Cancun | Best Areas & Hotels, 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Ricain 2023, Where to Stay in Costa Rica | Best Areas & Hotels, 19 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in 2023, 15 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica in 2023. This is a good time to travel - as long as you have packed well. What's the Worst Time to Visit Costa Rica - Plus 7 Top Tips From deserted beaches to fantastic fly-fishing: The joys of the island Parque Nacional Volcn Arenal is approximately 17km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna. 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. 1. Simply opting to travel a few days before or after peak times can make a difference in crowd size and cost. 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. Best time to visit Central America - Responsible Travel The ideal weather means there will be large crowds, resulting in higher costs of tours, accommodation, and flights. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. There is a very slight dip in August in the amount of rain compared to July, with about 6 inches of rain falling during the month. There are 3 days with rain, receiving less than 1 inch of rain total. Unless you have been fully guided, avoid the rivers of Costa Rica. If avoiding big crowds for a serene, peaceful getaway is your main goal, the best time to visit Costa Rica is anytime during October through mid-December. 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. 6. Technically, July and August are part of the rainy season too, but is often considered mini summer because the rain is a little bit lower during these months, especially in the central parts of the country. Due to varying elevations and environments, there are multiple microclimates around the country. What To Do in Costa Rica When It Rains? Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. Top tips for travelling in Costa Rica. Costa Rica during the dry season is lovely warm weather, sunny days, clear skies, and infrequent rain. When the Nation faces two presidential rounds, this polarizes the tourism industry. South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website Skip to main content If you love sunny weather, this is your time, especially for those who want to visit the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountains. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. The mountain areas are constantly receiving rains and unpredictable weather changes this month, and you are highly discouraged from having outdoor camping this month. Costa Rica for solo travellers. 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. Due to its proximity to the equator, Costa Rica is categorized as a tropical country without a definite winter season. 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. 10. $10.5 billion. There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife.