Costa Rica Weather-What’s The Weather Like When You Visit Costa Rica
Discover the Best Times to Visit Costa Rica and What to Expect in Each Season
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- Typical weather in Costa Rica
- Weather patterns in Costa Rica
- Map of Costa Rica’s weather
- Costa Rica’s weather month by month
- Weather forecast for Costa Rica
- The Rainy season in Costa Rica
- The Dry Season In Costa Rica
- The Green Season in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica’s transitional seasons
- The weather in different regions of Costa Rica
- The best time to visit Costa Rica based on the weather
Planning a trip to Costa Rica and curious about the weather?
Costa Rica experiences two primary seasons, the dry season which is typically from December to April and the rainy season, from May to November.
Costa Rica has over a dozen microclimates, including sunny coasts, misty mountains, and lush, vibrant rainforests. Average temperatures vary from 70°F to 90°F year-round, depending on the region and elevation.
When planning your trip to Costa Rica, you’ll need to navigate the everchanging weather conditions to get the most out of your Costa Rican Luxury Vacation.
Our comprehensive weather guide was compiled by our Costa Rican expert Andrea Cruz. She is a tour guide, a nature lover and has years of experience living in different regions of Costa Rica.
This guide will not only help you plan the best Costa Rican vacation but also give you a better understanding of the weather in this tropical destination.
COSTA RICA'S TYPICAL WEATHER: UNDERSTANDING THE WEATHER TO PLAN YOUR DREAM VACATION
Costa Rica is located north of the Equator, and the weather is warm all year round. The average temperature in Costa Rica is around 80 ° F.
Humidity is generally higher in coastal areas, contributing to a warm, tropical feel, whereas inland regions and higher elevations, like the Central Valley and Monteverde, offer cooler, more temperate climates.
This stunning holiday destination enjoys a consistent tropical climate, influenced by its position between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, resulting in distinctive weather patterns.
Download Your Free Costa Rican Weather Guide Here:
The Pacific coast enjoys extended dry periods while the Caribbean coast experiences more consistent rainfall year-round, with drier spells in March-April and September-October.
The country’s diverse topography creates over a dozen microclimates, allowing travelers to experience everything from sunlit beaches to misty cloud forests and captivating rainforests.
Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Costa Rica:
| Region | Dry Season | Rainy Season | Weather Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Valley | December to April | May to November | Mild climate with warm days and cooler nights. |
| Guancaste | December to April | May to November | Hottest and driest region. |
| Nicoya Peninsula | December to April | May to November | A warm and dry climate, similar to Guancaste. |
| Central Pacific | December to April | May to November | Warm and humid, with frequent afternoon showers from May. |
| South Pacific | January to April | May to December | One of the wettest regions. Heavy rain from May to December |
| Caribbean | March to April and September to October | November to February, May to August | Rain is more evenly distributed. Best weather is in March-April and September-October. |
Weather Patterns In Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s weather patterns are remarkably diverse due to its varied geography.
The Central Valley, home to the capital San José, experiences temperate conditions with mild temperatures year-round, thanks to its higher altitude.
Central Valley Weather Patterns
- Mild Year-Round: Temperatures range from 59°F to 79°F, providing a pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Seasonal Rain: The dry season lasts from December to April, while the wet season spans May to November, with most rain in the afternoons.
- Lower Humidity: Less humidity compared to coastal regions, contributing to a more comfortable environment.
- Cool Evenings: Higher elevation leads to cooler evenings, making nights more pleasant and less humid.
In contrast, the Caribbean coastal plain is characterized by a tropical climate with consistently high temperatures and humidity.
This region receives heavy rainfall from April to November, creating lush rainforests and rich biodiversity.
Caribbean Coastal Plain Weather patterns
- High Temperatures: Average temperatures range from to 73°F to 88°F year-round, with little variation between seasons.
- Consistent Humidity: High humidity levels throughout the year contribute to a tropical, muggy atmosphere.
- Heavy Rainfall: Significant rainfall occurs from April to November, with annual totals often exceeding 138 inches.
- Frequent Storms: Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially during the rainy season.
On the Pacific coast, particularly in Guanacaste Province, the weather is defined by a distinct dry season from December to April.
These months are characterized by sunny days and minimal rainfall, followed by a wetter period from May to November.
Pacific Coast Weather Patterns
- Warm Temperatures: Average temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F, providing consistently warm conditions year-round.
- Dry Season: The dry season runs from December to April, with minimal rainfall, abundant sunshine, and lower humidity.
- Rainy Season: The rainy season spans from May to November, with afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms.
- Variable Humidity: Humidity levels are lower during the dry season and increase during the rainy season.
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COSTA RICA WEATHER BY MONTH
Here’s a month-by-month guide to Costa Rica’s average temperatures:
- January-April: The highlands range from 68-77°F, while the lowlands stay warmer at 77-86°F. April is typically the hottest month, with average highs exceeding 86°F.
- May-November: Highland temperatures are around 70-79°F, and lowlands range from 79-90°F, with increased rainfall starting in May.
- December: The highlands cool slightly to 68-75°F, and the lowlands maintain temperatures between 77-86°F.
Throughout the year, the Central Valley remains around 77°F, with occasional brief downpours, while southern Pacific areas stay hot, and mountain regions offer cooler climates.
WEATHER FORECAST FOR COSTA RICA
Planning your trip to Costa Rica is easier when you check the latest weather forecast.
Major towns offer 10-day forecasts, covering temperature, humidity, and precipitation, which are crucial for preparing for local conditions.
These detailed reports are particularly helpful for multi-day excursions into Costa Rica’s remote areas.
Online resources like Wunderground and AccuWeather provide accurate, region-specific forecasts to help you plan your trip.
During the rainy season from May to November, these tools are invaluable for scheduling activities and avoiding heavy showers.
You can also use a few Costa Rican weather apps like Windy and weatherbug to stay updated on changing conditions, ensuring your plans are flexible and adaptable to the local climate.
Rainfall in Costa Rica
Rainfall in Costa Rica varies significantly between the wet and dry seasons.
Annual precipitation ranges from 98 to 217 inches, with consistent rainfall occurring for about half the year. During the wet season, daily rainfall can exceed 4 inches, contributing to the lush growth of tropical forests.
The Caribbean coast experiences the heaviest rainfall, averaging around 157 inches annually. Pavones, on the southern Pacific coast, receives about 118 inches, while inland areas like Los Guido and Golfito see around 79 inches.
The driest regions are Guanacaste, with approximately 39 inches of annual rainfall, and the Southern Zone, which receives about 59 inches.
When is Dry Weather in Costa Rica?
Timing your trip for the dry season, from December to April, maximizes your chances of enjoying sunny, rain-free days.
During this period, the northern winds keep storms at bay, giving way to lots of sunshine and making it the most poular time to visit Costa Rica.
The Guancaste Region During The Dry Season
If you’re looking to visit the Guanacaste region, the ideal time to visit is the dry season.
During during the dry season, this region receives minimal rainfall and boasts clear skies and warm temperatures, providing the perfect conditions for beach vacations and adventure activities.
The South Pacific And Osa Peninsula During the Dry Season
The Southern Pacific and Osa Peninsula also experience extended dry spells, with lighter rains between January and March.
Even the Caribbean coast sees reduced rainfall starting in late February. By planning your visit around these patterns, you can explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty under clear blue skies.
The Caribbean Cost During The Dry Season
The Caribbean coast enjoys reduced rainfall from late February to April, with average temperatures from 75°F to 88°F.
This drier period offers more opportunities for beach activities and exploring coastal rainforests.
Central Valley During The Dry Season
In the Central Valley, the dry season from December to April brings mild, stable weather with minimal rain and temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F .
This pleasant climate is perfect for urban exploration and cultural activities.
Duration of Dry Weather in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s dry season is from December to April bringing ideal conditions for a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences. Each region of the country offers unique opportunities to enjoy the dry weather, some of these include:
Surfing and Sunbathing: Enjoy vibrant beach life at Playa Guiones and Tamarindo, renowned for their excellent surfing conditions and sunny, sandy shores.
Volcano Exploration: Experience clear, stunning views of iconic volcanoes like Poás and Arenal, free from the usual mist and cloud cover.
Wildlife and Bird Watching: Explore the blooming forests around Rio Celeste, ideal for spotting colorful birds like tanagers and trogons amid lush greenery.
Nature and Hiking: Discover the serene phreatic pools and temperate forests of Rinconcito River Nature Reserve, perfect for ecotourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Aerial Tram Rides: Take in panoramic Pacific Ocean vistas and the rich biodiversity of jungle canopies from the aerial trams at Monteverde Cloud Forest.
What Can I Expect During The Rainy Season In Costa Rica?
Come May, Costa Rica’s weather shifts dramatically as the Intertropical Convergence Zone moves north, ushering in the rainy season through November.
This “green season” brings over 70% of the country’s annual rainfall, characterized by increased cloud cover and sudden, heavy downpours.
Humidity rises along the coast, with temperatures reaching up to 86°F under drizzly, grey skies. While mountain and highland regions remain cooler, frequent storms can impact visibility.
Adventurous tourists can still enjoy activities like waterfall hikes and ziplining amidst lush, tropical landscapes, though some lowland roads may become temporarily impassable.
Green Season In Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s green season, is from May to November.
It is characterized by heavy rains that rejuvenate the landscape and create lush, vibrant environments. The landscapes of Costa Rica are transformed and tourists can experience the forests at their greenest. This provides some of the best opportunities for nature photography, wildlife observation, and eco-tourism.
September and October are the rainiest months, with frequent and intense downpours.
Travelers should be prepared for potential disruptions, such as impassable roads and limited visibility in highland areas, but will benefit from fewer tourists, discounted rates, and a more immersive experience in Costa Rica’s rainforests and natural parks.
Transition Months Between Dry And Rainy Seasons
The transitional months in Costa Rica are February to May and October to November. These mark the transition between Costa Rica’s dry and rainy seasons, offering a unique blend of weather patterns.
During these periods, the country experiences a dynamic mix of rain and sunshine as it shifts from one season to the next.
From February to May, rains gradually decrease as the dry season approaches.
March can see a mix of substantial tropical rains and extended dry spells, making it a fascinating time for observing the changing landscape.
October and November bring increased rains as Costa Rica transitions back to the wet season. These months still have dry intervals with bouts of sunshine.
The transitional months showcase Costa Rica’s natural beauty in varied ways, with lush green landscapes emerging after the rain and the warm sunshine giving way to enjoy numerous activities.
How Does The Weather Vary Across Different Regions Of Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s weather varies greatly across its regions, influenced by elevation and proximity to the coasts.
Mountain areas are typically about 18°F cooler than coastal plains. Here’s a quick guide to the weather in each region:
Central Valley (including San José): Elevations of 3,280 to 4,920 feet provide mild weather year-round. Mornings start in the low 60s°F, warming to 68-77°F during the dry season, making it ideal for exploring urban and cultural attractions.
Guanacaste and Nicoya Peninsulas: Semi-arid tropical climate with its driest spell from February to April. Expect near-dry conditions and temperatures between 80-95°F, perfect for beach activities and outdoor fun under clear skies.
Caribbean Coast: Consistent rainfall year-round with warm temperatures averaging 75-88°F. The humid environment supports lush rainforests and abundant wildlife, ideal for eco-tourism.
Southern Zone and Osa Peninsula: High humidity and significant rainfall from May to November. Temperatures range from 75-90°F, providing lush, vibrant rainforests perfect for wildlife viewing and hiking.
Central and South Pacific: Dry season from December to April with temperatures from 77-95°F. Offers excellent beach conditions and coastal activities, with lush scenery during the rainy season.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Costa Rica Based On The Weather?
The best time to visit Costa Rica for favorable weather is during the dry season from December to April.
This period offers warm, sunny days ideal for enjoying the country’s beautiful beaches, vibrant national parks, and outdoor adventures.
You’ll find the Pacific coast, Central Valley, and San José especially appealing with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures, making it perfect for surfing, hiking, and exploring.
However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect larger crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer a more budget-friendly and quieter experience, consider visiting during the green season from May to November.
Despite the increased rainfall, often in the form of afternoon showers, the mornings are typically clear and perfect for activities like white-water rafting and canopy tours.
The landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise, offering a different but equally captivating charm. The Caribbean coast enjoys more consistent weather, and this period also presents opportunities for whale watching on the Pacific coast from August to October.
This season provides a more authentic Costa Rican experience with fewer tourists and lower costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time for sunny weather is during the dry season, from December to April, when there is minimal rainfall and warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
The green season, from May to November, is characterized by increased rainfall, leading to lush landscapes and vibrant rainforests. It offers a unique experience with fewer tourists and flourishing wildlife, despite daily short bursts of rain.
Coastal regions like Guanacaste are hot and dry during the dry season, while the Central Valley enjoys mild temperatures year-round. The Caribbean coast receives consistent rain, and the Southern Zone experiences high humidity with significant rainfall during the green season.
Yes, it is safe to travel during the rainy season. While some areas may experience heavy rains and muddy roads, many regions remain accessible, and the rain usually falls in short, intense bursts, leaving ample time for exploration.
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, waterproof gear for rain, sturdy shoes for hiking, and insect repellent. If visiting during the green season, consider additional rain protection like ponchos and waterproof bags.
Andrea Cruz - Costa Rican Travel Guide
Andrea is a seasoned traveler and an expert on Costa Rica. She has spent a number of years travelling around Costa Rica and exploring it's natural wanders. Andrea is an avid birdwatcher and loves spending time outdoors.
