Where to go when - our guide to Costa Rica
December - April
In terms of climate, Mid-December to mid-April is considered the ideal season to visit Costa Rica. Across most of the country, this is the dry season with the least rainfall and warm temperatures reaching highs of 30-32°C.
The only exception is the Caribbean coast, where temperatures are hotter and you’ll find rain all year round, though March is the driest month. Monteverde and the cloud forest also see some precipitation throughout the year, with February – April being the best bird-watching period. Temperatures in the highlands are at their most pleasant (15-20°C) and it can even get chilly at night.
30°C Average max daytime temperature
18°C Average min nighttime temperature
8 days per season rainfall
Moderate humidity
May - November
As in much of Central America, this is the wet season with increased rainfall in many areas. Costa Rica is spared the hurricanes that can hit its more northerly neighbours, and visiting the country during this off-season brings numerous benefits. Whether it be quieter beaches, empty national parks or nesting Green sea turtles (June – October in Tortuguero) Costa Rica remains a year-round destination whatever the season.
28°C Average max daytime temperature
18°C Average min nighttime temperature
20 days per season rainfall
Moderate humidity
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