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. In fact, you're likely to encounter snow here until well into May and temperatures can fall to -30C, though Norrland 's summer months are typically a comfortable 15 degrees. Crowds are thin, so the pricing for airfare, accommodations, and rentals is much lower at this time of year. Our personal favorite time to go to Costa Rica is July and August when there's a bit more rain but even fewer visitors and slightly lower prices and of course it's great to travel during the secret dry season on the Caribbean in September and October In fact there's no bad time to go. . 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. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica 2018 - Yahoo! The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. 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. Due to varying elevations and environments, there are multiple microclimates around the country. 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. Many visitors spend an average of 7 days in Costa Rica. So, watch out. Which side of Costa Rica is Better? It emerged into the Caribbean Sea to the East and the West, Pacific waters. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica (Factual Data, Pros & Cons) - Eco Lodges See average monthly temperatures below. It is located in a village with rainforests which have covered the beach. What to Know About Visiting Costa Rica in the Rainy Season - MytanFeet The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is between April through June. 1. You wont run into frigid temperatures when you visit here, no matter what time of year you go. Weather in the popular capital of San Jos has more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. December is the most crowded month, as the holiday crowd usually rushes in during this period. Join 19k+ in receiving Expert travel advice, news & promotions! At the end of April, rain begins to fall in the Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Dominical, and Uvita), which regulates the temperatures there. There are beautiful coastlines and stunning landscapes to enjoy, along with many pretty coastal towns to visit. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from January through February and in July. On average, the warmest months are February, March, April and May. The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. He picks out April as one of the best months you should visit Costa Rica. Costa Rica in January sees low rainfall across the country. Due to its proximity to the equator, Costa Rica is categorized as a tropical country without a definite winter season. Peak season is the busiest, most popular, and, thus, the most expensive time to visit Costa Rica. Thankfully, generally rain is isolated to afternoon and you can still find good, clear times during the morning to enjoy your activities. Average rainfall is less than one inch from January through March and only a little more than an inch in April and December. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica - The Ultimate Guide Though not common, there are reported cases of rapes, assaults, and robberies at different beaches. First things first, there are two tropical seasons in Costa Rica: dry season and green season. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. The Pacific Coast is noteworthy, as the north Pacific and the south Pacific coasts see marked differences in weather patterns. 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. Costa Rica boasts 800 miles of pristine coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Book early. But look out for the rest of the year. 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. Sunsets are just horrible. Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. 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. Check my honest comparison to figure out where to go on vacation. Located along the Pacific Coast, the park has light sand beaches, ancient rainforests, coral reefs, and clear water. For anyone who appreciates exploring new countries off the beaten path, this is arguably the best time of year to go for authentic experiences. 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. They have an amazing way of doing flowers. This coincides with cheaper rates and prices, so think of it as a bonus! South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website Skip to main content If we link to any product, you should assume that we'll receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023 | Travellers You know the best time to visit Costa Rica, but making the most of your trip to Costa Rica means you need a little more info to plan your getaway. Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: Monthly Breakdown & Recommendations Exact veranillo days and duration vary from year to year, and may even continue into the start of August. Like Limon, Puntarenas has steady temperatures throughout the year. Youll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica and the worst time to plan your visit in this quick travel guide. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. Understanding the Costa Rica climate can be a huge help in determining the best time to visit Costa Rica. Youll see sloths, monkeys, humpback whales, sea turtles, and migratory birds in abundance in November and December sounds like an ideal vacation! Scarcely populated, Norrland winter's sub-zero temperatures last for several months. May through November is the green season. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2022 | Travellers (2023) All said and done; we hope that you shall enjoy your stay in Costa Rica. What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? If you want to see the world, go see it! Liz Flynn has worked as a full-time writer since 2010 after leaving a career in education. Costa Rica is bubbling over with life and energy. But be aware that your trip will be more expensive and a little less serene! Costa Rica is a place that almost everyone has on their list of places to visit. Costa Rica is a lot more expensive than it's neighbouring countries. 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. Heavy rain, mostly in the afternoons, and sporadic showers are likely from May to November, with September and October having the heaviest rainfall. It is the home of 400 varieties of birds and 2500 plant species and has more than 100 mammals. Source . Bolivia doesn't quite have the family appeal of Costa Rica or Cancun, say - but those thinking of traveling in Bolivia with kids shouldn't be deterred. 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. This Central American country is home to wild jungles, incredible national parks, cascading waterfalls, and more. Costa Rica is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. Best Times to Visit Costa Rica - Rain, Cost, Events Tamarindo has dry periods in January, February and March. The choices of the animal parks you can visit are limited to places such as the Punta Uva and Cahuita National Parks. 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. 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 . 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. 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! Here you can do diving, mountain climbing, and snorkeling, among other activities. Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. Wildlife watching: hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. Please consult a Costa Rica Expert on the general climate of your destinations of interest over your travel dates. Even though Costa Rica is a small country, it has vastly different weather patterns, thanks a variety of microclimates. Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. The most stable weather is between December and April. The Best Time to Visit La Fortuna, Costa Rica for Weather, Safety However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. The Ostional Wildlife Refuge in the Guanacaste Province of Nicoya Peninsula is among the best locations to witness this phenomenon. We'll go over the best (and worst) times to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more in this article. 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. 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. Liz loves the process of researching information, learning new things, and putting into words what others who share her interests might like to read. Pacific Coast or Caribbean Coast? Get forecasts each morning for every major island. 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. , 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 . 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. This period is during the low season, so youll deal with fewer tourists and may feel like youve got the place to yourself. The average temperature hovers around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26 degrees Celsius) but it can get down . It is also dry season in Costa Rica, when clear skies accommodate travelers. Theres something for everyone here youve just got to know the best time to visit Costa Rica to plan the ideal vacation! 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. 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. (avg. Costa Rica is best visited between mid-December and April. If you plan to visit the country during this time, rent your car in Costa Rica ahead of time . You have an added advantage if you speak English and Spanish because those are the official and dominant languages. 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. Arguably, this is one of the worst months you should avoid if you are visiting Costa Rica. 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. To the North, the Nation borders Nicaragua, and to the South, it has Panama. Its even cheaper if you visit during the low season, September through mid-December (especially November and early December). The rainy season starts and cloud cover increases dramatically as the month goes on. The forest has the great Sky Trek zip line, which you can take advantage of. 30 Tips Before Travelling In Costa Rica | 2021 Travel Guide For those who love waterfall hiking, then here is your solution. Its green season in Costa Rica, but a brief pocket of sunshine breaks up the rain inJuly in what locals call veranillo, or little summer. During February and March, tourism also booms around Easter and the start of Spring Break. The shoulder or green season from May to mid-June and November has plenty of appeal. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website September can be a great month to travel or a washout, depending on where you are in Costa Rica. Most elections are held in February. Best time to go to Liberia (Guanacaste) - Where and When to travel? Tortuguero is the home of those who love turtles. Nicaragua's total GDP is approx. Monteverde is a famous moist and cloudy forest and ranks high among the best natural tourist destinations in the world. The best time to visit Costa Rica for surfing depends a little bit on what coast youre on. In Nicaragua the rainy season means an hour of rain in the afternoon, and it's gorgeous at this time of year. The Weather and Climate in Costa Rica - TripSavvy 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. There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife. Copyright 2023 Exploration Junkie. 1. Have you been looking for a country to visit? Crocodiles occupy many, and some have bull sharks. The worst time to visit Costa Rica is during the rainy season which runs from May to November. When to go to Sweden in spring Visiting Sweden in March - May But times change. The most interesting feature of the Costa Ricans is their happiness. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. If you want to experience the lush vegetation and smaller crowds, rainy season might be your best bet. View our Costa Rica safaris, or talk to one of our specialists for more details on travelling to Costa Rica. We understand that you are excited that you know when and where to visit when you are in Costa Rica but hold on. Comparatively, if you have been to the state of West Virginia, then expect a country that is slightly smaller than it. Simply opting to travel a few days before or after peak times can make a difference in crowd size and cost. Ask the locals or your tour guide if you do not understand what to do. Costa Rica Climate Guide. 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. It is the period of heavy rainfall though being a tropical country, about of the skies pouring can be expected anytime. The dry season is back! Your opportunities for spotting wildlife are best in green season. 1. September and October These two months are by far the rainiest in Costa Rica. The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. But if beach crowds are more the issue, then the low tourist season of June . He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. Plus earthquakes are almost a daily occurrence and floods are common in the rainy . And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). In July and August, Costa Rica is in the drier part of the rainy season Costa Ricans call it veranillo or little summer. 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. Due to its relatively cheap currency against the U.S dollar, services are cheaper here. This Central American nation located between the Caribbean and Pacific coasts is endowed with wild rainforests, spectacular national parks, roaring waterfalls, and other natural wonders. Best and Worst Times to Visit Costa Rica - Caribeez.com Most of the rain that falls in November comes towards the beginning of the month. Best Rainy Season Activities. Clearly, the best time of year to visit Puntarenas is during the winter and early spring and the worst times to visit are during the summer and fall. Running from November through May, this is the best time to visit Costa Rica to enjoy the rugged landscapes, especially in the Highlands. I spent the first half of this year living in Nosara, Costa . These are home to millions of different wildlife and plant species some you cant find anywhere else. The good thing with Costa Rica rains is that they start softly before gradually picking. Keep in mind that as you move through different altitudes and regions, the climate can change in minutes. Related Article: 6 Costa Rica Holiday Travel Tips. There are more than 500,000 animal species in the country, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. price over the last 2 weeks) or less. 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. 2020 Scott S. Bateman, Heavy rains produce Costa Ricas famous rainforests. Plan ahead for travel over Presidents Day weekend,Spring Break, and Easter. If a rainy afternoon would ruin your vacation, visit in dry season. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. The Nicoya Peninsula and the mountainous area around Rincon de la Vieja National Park have slight rainfalls compared to other places. 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. The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! I tried watching the sunset the other night, and it was just horrible. Rainfall is a possibility, especially around the beginning of November, but light rain showers, are enjoyable, especially while swimming in waterfalls. Things to do | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website In addition to having some of the sunniest days in the country, the Gold Coast has the least amount of rainfall. In June, youll see a small surge in tourists as the kids get let out of school and family vacations start. 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. 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. Unless you have been fully guided, avoid the rivers of 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. You'll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica - and the worst time to plan your visit - in this quick travel guide. Those same two months are the worst months of the year for visiting the rest of the Caribbean because of the annual hurricane season. The best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease. Theres no bad time to go to Costa Rica. Here is your chance if you have never seen the green sea turtle nesting sites. Overall, October is the coolest month of the year. April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. One of the best ways of, Read More A Travelers Guide to Hiking in Cape CodContinue. The worst months to visit Puntarenas are May through Octoberespecially September. Truly, you can have a great time in this country any time of year. If you want to surf, then it depends on the region. 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. The rainy season in Costa Rica, which lasts from May to November, is usually considered the worst time to travel there since the rains frequently cause widespread flooding and mudslides, making travel activities hazardous and difficult. It's easiest to reach the park by car or on a tour. Since these months fall between peak seasons, there are fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices. If you decide to go during July or August, youll get the best of both worlds with sunny, warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and cheaper pricing than the peak season. The worst months are May through October because of. The International Living gives a detailed report on the places you should avoid the most in November: Santa Rita de Alajuela, Leon XIIII, Tibas, San Jose, Limon City, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, San Carlos, and the Puntarenas City, Puntarenas. Latino U.S.A reported that during elections, there are economic tensions during the election month in Costa Rica. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. Therefore, knowing the ideal time and place to visit is essential for making the most of your tropical trip. 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.