Join 19k+ subscribers in receiving FREE travel advice, news & promotions! 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. Dont think your trip is doomed to heavy rains all day, every day if you visit from October through early December. It is unusual for Limon weather to get a break in September and October. 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. Book early. 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. Plus earthquakes are almost a daily occurrence and floods are common in the rainy . The beginning of December is less-crowded, with difficult to predict weather. This was probably the advice I was given the most before heading to Costa Rica, forget mozzie spray. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. rainfall increases to almost 3 inches, and an average of 7 rainy days per month. I tried watching the sunset the other night, and it was just horrible. It is surrounded by very welcoming locals who guide through the waters and the hiking trails. 2017 Scott S. Bateman, Despite heavy year-round rain, clear skies are possible like this one in Zacero. On the typically rainy southern Caribbean Coast, the rain lightens up in September and October, making it a great time to visit. The worst time to visit Costa Rica. The ideal weather means there will be large crowds, resulting in higher costs of tours, accommodation, and flights. Top tips for travelling in Costa Rica. 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. Costa Rica September. Latino U.S.A reported that during elections, there are economic tensions during the election month in Costa Rica. 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. Considered a very peaceful country, it hasn't had an army since 1949 and is one of the safest countries in Central America. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. Today, Tamperes old cotton mills have been turned into chic malls,, Read More The 20 Best Things to do in Tampere, FinlandContinue, Tahiti is one of those places where the nautical conditions are pretty much near perfect all year long. The Most Affordable Time to Visit Costa Rica. First things first, there are two tropical seasons in Costa Rica: dry season and green season. 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. 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. And with fewer crowds, youll feel that youve got the beach, park, or town to yourself. What Species of Monkeys Are in Costa Rica and Where to See Them? These numbers dont guarantee the best months to visit Costa Rica because the weather does vary some from year to year. You must also be aware that some locations are susceptible to flooding and landslides. The best time to visit Costa Rica depends a lot on what you want to do. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Despite its average economy, there is plenty you can enjoy. But be aware that your trip will be more expensive and a little less serene! The chart above shows that Limon gets rain about 18 days a month on a fairly consistent basis throughout the year. Comparatively, if you have been to the state of West Virginia, then expect a country that is slightly smaller than it. As stated in our introduction, Costa Rica is a democratic country whose president and two deputies are elected through a popular initiative. View our Costa Rica safaris, or talk to one of our specialists for more details on travelling to Costa Rica. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. Costa Rica is, hands down, a fun vacation destination You have volcanoes rainforests gorgeous Pacific and Caribbean beaches exciting wildlife encounters and adventure activities. 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. Most elections are held in February. But Costa Ricas two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the year. Therefore, knowing the ideal time and place to visit is essential for making the most of your tropical trip. Keep in mind that as you move through different altitudes and regions, the climate can change in minutes. 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. Since these months fall between peak seasons, there are fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices. I only hope to bring you information to help you choose your travel dates. 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. If a rainy afternoon would ruin your vacation, visit in dry season. 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. Otherwise, take any bus to Tilarn and . Costa Rica has a tropical climate. Many of the roads in Costa Rica have potholes, lack guard rails, and high speeding youths under the influence of drugs. The dry season (and tourist peak season) in Costa Rica begins around the United States Thanksgiving holiday, in late November. In this article, I'll be talking about the worst time to visit Costa Rica, as well as providing some tips for making the most of your trip even during less-than-ideal weather conditions. At the same time, the central valley of San Jos experiences cool breezes and average temperatures of about 72 Fahrenheit (22 Celsius). Natural wildlife and beauty aside, Costa Ricas bustling cities are another great reason to visit. Costa Rica Experts 2023. The dry season has plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for wildlife watching, beach lounging, and indulging in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. The dry season is back! Budget-wise, peak weeks that occur around Christmas and Easter are the worst times to visit Costa Rica. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023. 6. 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. 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. And the only tradeoff is a little short-lived rainfall during your stay! He picks out April as one of the best months you should visit Costa Rica. Afternoons are rainy with typicallyclear mornings (perfect for morning tours). 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. 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. Weather in February continues to be sunny and dry. 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. 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. 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. Unless you have been fully guided, avoid the rivers of Costa Rica. The weather along the Pacific coast is anywhere from somewhat rainy to extreme downpours depending on how far south you go. Now for the monthly breakdown. 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 Caribbean Coast experiences a brief respite in September and October but is otherwise hot, humid, and wet all year. 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. Packing insect repellent is also vital because rainy weather increases mosquito infestations. 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. 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. Theres no bad time to go to Costa Rica. This time of year is also a great time to visit the country because of what we refer to as the glorious awakening of nature. Similar to the beautiful green scenery you see when spring finally arrives after a long winter, everything appears to come to life during the green season. Typically, the sky clears up as the rains begin to taper off for dry season, and you can experience beautiful beach days on the Pacific Coast. Due to its relatively cheap currency against the U.S dollar, services are cheaper here. Running from November through May, this is the best time to visit Costa Rica to enjoy the rugged landscapes, especially in the Highlands. They are more likely to experience an increase in total rainfall. Costa Rica has a very diverse and changeable climate. The most stable weather is between December and April. Visiting Costa Rica during the rainy season Costa Rica during the rainy season is still a beautiful time to visit. The most popular sport in Costa Rica is soccer, or Futbol, as they call it. Average rainfall is less than one inch from January through March and only a little more than an inch in April and December. Whereas the Nation is one of the most attractive in Central America, there are times you should avoid it as much as you can. We understand that you are excited that you know when and where to visit when you are in Costa Rica but hold on. 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. Tamarindo has dry periods in January, February and March. The rainiest months are September and . The Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo are the most popular places to visit in May. You'll find significant rain almost every day. 1. First, let us say that theres truly no bad time to visit Costa Rica. In July and August, Costa Rica is in the drier part of the rainy season Costa Ricans call it veranillo or little summer. The hottest month of the year is usually just about 3 degrees Celsius warmer than . Prices and crowds are at their peak, making this the most expensive and crowded time to visit. This is the low season in Costa Rica due to the heavy rainfall (its the peak and tail end of the rainy season). The rainiest months in Costa Rica are September and October. No wonder July and August are highly regarded as the best time to visit Costa Rica by travel agencies and experienced travelers in the know! Yes, the answer depends on the individual. Oh, and before we forget, December gives you another opportunity to see the extraordinary decorations by the Costa Ricans. Costa Rica during the dry season is lovely warm weather, sunny days, clear skies, and infrequent rain. Flight from San Jos to Billings. 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 time to visit Costa Rica is in September and October. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. This is still squarely in the rainy season, with approximately half the days seeing rain and 6 inches of rain falling throughout the month. Naturally, human beings wish to hear the good side of the story before the bad one. The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. With that, hotel prices rise. Suppose you want to travel to any isolated or rural areas. As you move south along the Pacific coast, humidity levels rise. For anyone who appreciates exploring new countries off the beaten path, this is arguably the best time of year to go for authentic experiences. However, the Caribbean side and slope of Costa Rica, including Arenal Volcano, actually enjoys its best . November and early December are traveler favorites for cheap prices and fewer tourists. Travel Tips. 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. 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. Sunnier days and lower rainfall is evident throughout the country. You shall witness unmatched street parades, bull runs, dancing, and rodeos. The weather is phenomenal and rainfall tapers off considerably, so there are still reasons to go during this time. The rainy season ends in October, which is the beginning of the shoulder season. Check my complete guide to the best things to do in Costa Rica for any type of traveler. This is a good time to travel - as long as you have packed well. South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website Skip to main content Mexico or Costa Rica? 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. Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. See average monthly temperatures below. 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. 2020 Scott S. Bateman, Heavy rains produce Costa Ricas famous rainforests. 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. When the Nation faces two presidential rounds, this polarizes the tourism industry. The worst time to visit overall is late December through January. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 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. 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. 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. There are several things you should avoid doing when you are 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. In October, the rains are heavy, making some parts of the country mildly inaccessible. In April, this beautiful area experiences morning sunshine and afternoon light rain. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 13 days with rain, receiving about 6 inches of rain total. If you are not a fan of the heavy rains, do not travel to the South Pacific because the rains here are heavy by the second week of May. The toughest areas are the mountains, where nighttime temperatures can fall below 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius). 2. This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal. $10.5 billion. On average, the warmest months are January, February, March, April, May, June and August. Its the best month to visit Costa Rica for the sunniest weather, with about of the days being sunny. The average rainfall jumps to eight inches or more from May through October and reaches a high point of about 12 inches in September. Undoubtedly, the best weather is in January and February, when Costa Rica is still early in the dry season, and the skies are clear and rain is very low. 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. Costa Rica is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. 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. Monteverde is a famous moist and cloudy forest and ranks high among the best natural tourist destinations in the world. 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. The country is, without a doubt, among the best Central American countries to visit. The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. In June, youll see a small surge in tourists as the kids get let out of school and family vacations start. If you are visiting the country, take note of the times we have given you and avoid the places we have warned you. If you want to enjoy your vacation in the ideal weather, then December and January are the best time to visit Costa Rica. The temperature in Costa Rica. This is the peak tourism season, so prices are steep and crowds are deep. Costa Rica for solo travellers. $264. I'm happy that you landed on my page and hope to inspire your wanderlust and encourage you to get outside your comfort zone. 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. 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. Costa Rica Pacific vs Caribbean Coast: Which is Best for You? 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! Even dry seasons can have unexpected rain, so visitors should always be prepared in advance. Simply opting to travel a few days before or after peak times can make a difference in crowd size and cost. These are home to millions of different wildlife and plant species some you cant find anywhere else. Costa Rica rarely experiences the direct impact of a hurricane on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts. This is the mini summer of Costa Rica. January and February are smack dab in the dry season, with plenty of sunny days and low rain. On the Pacific Coast, the month with the highest amount of rain. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. If you're looking for the very warmest time to visit La Fortuna, the hottest months are April, March, and then February. We enter peak season for travel at the end of December around the holidays. The worst time to visit Costa Rica is in September and October when lashing rains and floods wash out bridges and roads. Therefore, the chance that you shall get competitive services is so low. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Liberia (Guanacaste) has dry periods in January, February and March. Less favorable weather means fewer crowds hence cheaper costs. Decembers average rainfall of 18 inches equals the entire year of some islands such as the arid Aruba. This is your favorite month for those who want to enjoy the weather transition. This is partly the result of higher elevations. There are two distinct seasons in Costa Rica. The worst time to visit overall is late December through January. 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. One thing is for sure, though, your vacation in Costa Rica will be an incredible experience youll never forget! Lets have a look at them. There are three key factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit: the weather, the crowds, and the cost. Unlike Limon, Puntarenas has much more distinct dry and rainy seasons. 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. The light rains during July and August are nothing compared to the deluges common in September through December. Animals are still hiding in the thick bushes, and you must travel for so long before seeing them. 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. 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. Nicaragua's total GDP is approx. 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. 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 worst months to visit Puntarenas are May through Octoberespecially September. . The temperatures in Costa Rica range between 20 - 30 C year-round. 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.. price over the last 2 weeks) or less. This is when temperatures peak between 84 degrees Fahrenheit to 87 degrees Fahrenheit and rain stays to a minimum. You'll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica - and the worst time to plan your visit - in this quick travel guide. 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. When to go to Sweden in spring Visiting Sweden in March - May Tie in a neighbour. 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. If Easter falls in April, you can expect a spike in tourist traffic over the holiday. They can often reach into the mid-'30s during the dry season. September and October These two months are by far the rainiest in Costa Rica. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. The best person to decide when you should visit Costa Rica is you. 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! Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. Turtle Watching Season 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. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. The city reaches a high point for rain in September and October thanks to the Pacific hurricane season. April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste.