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. Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. Join 19k+ in receiving Expert travel advice, news & promotions! Here comes the part of our guide that many would flash by the headlines. The Pacific Coast is noteworthy, as the north Pacific and the south Pacific coasts see marked differences in weather patterns. April to June and September to November is the rainy season in Costa Rica. You shall witness unmatched street parades, bull runs, dancing, and rodeos. The rainiest months are September and . 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. 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. These first few months of the dry season are particularly pleasant since the weather condition is warm and the skies are clear. The mountain areas are constantly receiving rains and unpredictable weather changes this month, and you are highly discouraged from having outdoor camping this month. The transition months from dry to rainy are April and May. 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. Its the best month to visit Costa Rica for the sunniest weather, with about of the days being sunny. Weather in the popular capital of San Jos has more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. Puntarenas has a distinct dry season from December through April. Costa Rica is a lot more expensive than it's neighbouring countries. The rainy season starts and cloud cover increases dramatically as the month goes on. 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 end of November marks the start of Costa Ricas busy season, as holidays and cold weather are a great excuse to escape. Hello guys, My name is Daria, and I'm a true Discovery Nut! 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. Which side of Costa Rica is Better? Arenal and its surroundings make a . It still erupts from time to time, and if you're lucky, you'll be able to see lava flowing down the volcano. The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! Plus, there are no crowds. Wildlife watching:loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. I only hope to bring you information to help you choose your travel dates. It experiences low rainfall from December through April and higher rainfall from June through November. December is the most crowded month, as the holiday crowd usually rushes in during this period. On the other hand, there is frequently very little rain from December to April, and there may be no rain in some places. Most elections are held in February. However, at this time, you should avoid Drake Bay, Corcovado, because the rains arrive early. 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. January through March is typically the worst time to visit Costa Rica. The UNESCO world heritage listed the island as among the best-inhabited places for those who love nature. 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. Costa Rica Pacific vs Caribbean Coast: Which is Best for You? 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. As you move south along the Pacific coast, humidity levels rise. Even the driest parts of Costa Rica, such as the North Pacific, still experience high rainfall. Average rainfall is less than one inch from January through March and only a little more than an inch in April and December. Thinking of planning your trip somewhere tropical and not quite settled on Costa Rica? Costa Rica during the rainy season is still a beautiful time to visit. Its terrain includes the Mojave Desert, Central Valley farmland, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, redwood forest, and cliff-lined beaches. But what sets this resort apart is the stunning location with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. 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. IMPORTANT NOTE: For each of these 3 regions, you will find representative averages for what you might expect. This was probably the advice I was given the most before heading to Costa Rica, forget mozzie spray. What To Do in Costa Rica When It Rains? 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. 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. According to Audley Travel, December is probably the best time for those who love outdoor activities. When referencing Pacific weather in the following sections, weve highlighted what you will experience when staying in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area, which is the middle of the Pacific Coast. Nicaragua is home to the oldest city in all of Central America; The Ruins of Len Viejo. The next best time to visit Limon is during September and October, when the average rainfall is six and eight inches a month. 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. January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. You get it all when you visit at this time of year! For anyone who appreciates exploring new countries off the beaten path, this is arguably the best time of year to go for authentic experiences. Since these months fall between peak seasons, there are fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices. 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. Located along the Pacific Coast, the park has light sand beaches, ancient rainforests, coral reefs, and clear water. Then worry no more because Costa Rica has everything it takes to make a good tourist destination. . . The best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease. 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. The weather during this period is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s. Due to varying elevations and environments, there are multiple microclimates around the country. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. 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. Dont think your trip is doomed to heavy rains all day, every day if you visit from October through early December. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. Cloudy skies predominate, and there are 15 days with rain, receiving about 6 inches of rain total. 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. So while we cant answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. Here are the top five reasons why: Spectacular sunset at Mansita Beach, Hacienda Pinilla. But if beach crowds are more the issue, then the low tourist season of June . 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. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Liberia (Guanacaste) has dry periods in January, February and March. 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. The temperature in Costa Rica. The month is also characterized by some slight drizzles in the evening, which welcome the mild temperatures of the night. 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. Beautiful water bodies surround it. This is the mini summer of Costa Rica. 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. Here comes the part of our guide that many would flash by the headlines. The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Natural Science Museum La Salle Courtesy of phaitoon - Fotolia.com The weather in Costa Rica is pretty temperate year-round, but it is best avoided during the wet season. 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. Even dry seasons can have unexpected rain, so visitors should always be prepared in advance. 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.. In April, the dry season in Costa Rica is coming to an end. Travelers at this time of year will also find lively fiestas and festivals happening all around the nation, complete with bullfights, dancing, and live music. The San Jos, Costa Rica weather is wonderful, staying in the mid-'20s throughout the entire year. That being said, March and April have the highest temperatures. 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. 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, Historical Sites and Legends of Costa Rica. It is the home of 400 varieties of birds and 2500 plant species and has more than 100 mammals. The most stable weather is between December and April. Simply opting to travel a few days before or after peak times can make a difference in crowd size and cost. Lets have a look at them. Costa Rica during the dry season is lovely warm weather, sunny days, clear skies, and infrequent rain. The most interesting feature of the Costa Ricans is their happiness. The start of green season in May is a much needed cool off from the intense heat of the dry season. The most popular sport in Costa Rica is soccer, or Futbol, as they call it. The Nation has an estimated population of almost 5 million. In Costa Rica will find plenty of exhilarating activities taking place in the greenest habitat and surrounded by exotic wildlife. When the Nation faces two presidential rounds, this polarizes the tourism industry. Rain typically clears up on the Caribbean Coast in September & October. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 91 F and average low is 80 F. There are 7 days with rain, receiving about 2 inches of rain total. Heavy rain, mostly in the afternoons, and sporadic showers are likely from May to November, with September and October having the heaviest rainfall. Copyright 2023 Exploration Junkie. In this post, we'll cover the best (and worst) time to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more. 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. Credit: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license). 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. Less favorable weather means fewer crowds hence cheaper costs. Turtle Watching Season Naturally, human beings wish to hear the good side of the story before the bad one. 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. If you plan to visit the country during this time, rent your car in Costa Rica ahead of time . 'It's so expensive' were the words on fellow travellers lips. Therefore, different regions in the country have very different scenery and weather. 7. We enter peak season for travel at the end of December around the holidays. But Costa Rica's two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the year. There is an easy solution though. Costa Rica has a very diverse and changeable climate. There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife. The best person to decide when you should visit Costa Rica is you. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. However, there are many microclimates in Costa Rica. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. In Guanacaste, the most arid region of the country, the foliage begins to turn golden. The dry season lasts from December to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to November. What Species of Monkeys Are in Costa Rica and Where to See Them? The mountain regions are yet to dry, the road in them is clogged with mad, and you can still experience rainfalls at any given time. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. The city reaches a high point for rain in September and October thanks to the Pacific hurricane season. This is when temperatures peak between 84 degrees Fahrenheit to 87 degrees Fahrenheit and rain stays to a minimum. Costa Rica has a tropical climate. You should also plan ahead when booking accommodation facilities and activities to get a fair deal before the prices hike. Most popular time to fly with an average 27% increase in price. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please consult a Costa Rica Expert on the general climate of your destinations of interest over your travel dates. The Caribbean Coast is generally hot, humid, and rainy year-round, with a short break in September and October. First, let us say that theres truly no bad time to visit Costa Rica. The choices of the animal parks you can visit are limited to places such as the Punta Uva and Cahuita National Parks. If a rainy afternoon would ruin your vacation, visit in dry season. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Expect it to be warm and humid. April typically marks the end of the dry season. However, it is good to note that this is a problem experienced in nations with the same economic strength as Costa Rica. Wildlife watching: hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. Find out the best time to visit Costa Rica with details on climate, seasons and events from Audley specialists. It is surrounded by very welcoming locals who guide through the waters and the hiking trails. The worst months are May through October because of. 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). Arguably, this is one of the worst months you should avoid if you are visiting Costa Rica. Hotel availability is limited over these populartravel dates, and some hotels increase rates over peak travel dates. You may even find you have the beach all to yourself. Truly, you can have a great time in this country any time of year. You can travel to the Central Pacific Coat if you are still interested in the sunny weather of April, though slightly lower. 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. Plus earthquakes are almost a daily occurrence and floods are common in the rainy . Most Pacific Coast and the Central Mountains receive a lot of sunshine during these warmer months. What is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica (And When To Go Instead). Flight from San Jos to Billings. Costa Rica is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. Arenal. 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. Because of its location close to the equator, the climate in Costa Rica is tropical. It allows you to swap your heavy winter clothing with admirable carnival costumes. 1. South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website Skip to main content Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida ("pure life"), was declared the most environmentally advanced and happiest place on earth in 2016. If a warm and sunny tropical vacation is what youre looking for, its hard to beat Costa Ricas pleasant climate. Destination Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec; Arenal Volcano: 28 . Travel Tips. 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. . If you love sunny weather, this is your time, especially for those who want to visit the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountains. While weather is the primary factor, other considerations include an increase in crowded beaches and resorts as well as higher prices. In order to keep dry and avoid getting muddy whenever possible, make sure you pack the proper clothing and footwear. In this article, we shall guide you to know the best and the worst times you should visit Costa Rica. Nicaragua's total GDP is approx. There are direct flights from San Jose to Tamarindo that take about 1 hour, but keep in mind that you'll have to factor in time for checking in and going through security at the airport. Have you been looking for a country to visit? You'll learn the best time to visit Costa Rica - and the worst time to plan your visit - in this quick travel guide. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. Youll need to be prepared for rain most days, and heavy rain at that. Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. 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. The coasts are generally warmer, and the highlands are generally cooler. 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. The north Pacific is the driest part of the country and the south Pacific is one of the wettest places in Costa Rica. Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. Costa Rica is best visited between mid-December and April. Rainy season in Costa Rica is generally beginning of May to end of November. 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! Wildlife watching: leatherback & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. The chart above shows that Limon gets rain about 18 days a month on a fairly consistent basis throughout the year. Home Travel Central America Costa Rica What is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica (And When To Go Instead). Thankfully, generally rain is isolated to afternoon and you can still find good, clear times during the morning to enjoy your activities. Were still in dry season,and the weather remains fantastic. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. Knowing which months are dry or green seasons in the country is crucial as it will help you choose the best place and time to visit. Everything begins to look much more green as the rain brings the rainforest to life. 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. At this time, the weather is dry and bright. Sunnier days and lower rainfall is evident throughout the country. Nicaragua folklore dress code. Even though Costa Rica is a small country, it has vastly different weather patterns, thanks a variety of microclimates. The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. On the Pacific Coast, the month with the highest amount of rain. The rainiest months in Costa Rica are September and October. As Costa Rica has over 20 micro-climates, day and night time temperatures and the . Stunningly blue water and sandy shores of all different colors even a famous black sand beach draw tons of tourists here each year. See average monthly temperatures below. That time period shifts slightly depending on your goals for the trip. Considered a very peaceful country, it hasn't had an army since 1949 and is one of the safest countries in Central America. Sitting at an elevation of 1,670 meters (5,480 feet), Arenal is one of Costa Rica's many volcanoes. It is a democratic republic which is located in Central America. Related Article: 6 Costa Rica Holiday Travel Tips. 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. Rainfall is a possibility, especially around the beginning of November, but light rain showers, are enjoyable, especially while swimming in waterfalls. In April, this beautiful area experiences morning sunshine and afternoon light rain. Hurricane Season. To the North, the Nation borders Nicaragua, and to the South, it has Panama. Least crowded months in Costa Rica: May-October Dry Season in Costa Rica For most of the country, dry season means picture-perfect sunny days, fewer rain showers, and slightly warmer temperatures. Prices and crowds are at their peak, making this the most expensive and crowded time to visit. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . September to November sees the lowest crowds in Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season. Learn how your comment data is processed. If you must travel during this time be sure to check local weather conditions and plan your route accordingly. If you intend to experience the rainforest in all its green glory, the green season is a great choice. The humidity increases as you travel south along the Pacific coast. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. 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. The toughest areas are the mountains, where nighttime temperatures can fall below 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius). Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. It is located in a village with rainforests which have covered the beach. The weather along the Pacific coast is anywhere from somewhat rainy to extreme downpours depending on how far south you go. So, watch out. 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. Youve got the highly-developed Pacific coast on the western side and the more-affordable, culturally-driven Caribbean coast on the eastern side. 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. The best advice is that you should wait until the political temperatures cool. The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. I feel compelled to state that I am not a weather girl, nor can I predict the future. Flying is significantly more affordable from May to November than during the dry season since the demand is way lower. 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. The hottest weather, however, can be found a little further south along the coast, particularly on the Nicoya peninsulas Southeast and Northwest edges. You can see many animals in Costa Rica at any time of the year, including monkeys, coati, and sloths, crocodiles, and macaws. Many of the roads in Costa Rica have potholes, lack guard rails, and high speeding youths under the influence of drugs. 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. Next-door neighbours Nicaragua Dropdown content and Panama Dropdown content make the easiest and most obvious add-ons to a sojourn in Costa Rica. San Jos has an average high temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit. He picks out April as one of the best months you should visit Costa Rica. If this is the only time you can visit, be sure to plan at least a year in advance since hotels fill up fast. Animals are still hiding in the thick bushes, and you must travel for so long before seeing them. Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. They have an amazing way of doing flowers. Costa Rica is, hands down, a fun vacation destination You have volcanoes rainforests gorgeous Pacific and Caribbean beaches exciting wildlife encounters and adventure activities. Youll see amazing volcanoes, dense tropical jungles, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and rivers full of life winding throughout the country. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. In light of this, the ideal season to visit Costa Rica truly depends on which of these three considerations is most important to you. 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. Packing insect repellent is also vital because rainy weather increases mosquito infestations. Here is your chance if you have never seen the green sea turtle nesting sites. Check my complete guide to the best things to do in Costa Rica for any type of traveler. 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.
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