Weather: Understanding Costa Rica’s Climate
Forget everything you’ve read about Costa Rica having just two seasons—the dry and the rainy season. The reality is much more nuanced. Here are three key things to know about the country’s weather:
• Temperature Stays Consistent: There’s little variation between the hottest months (April-May) and the coolest months (January-February), so you can expect warm, tropical weather year-round.
• Rainfall Varies by Region: The so-called “rainy season” in one area can be the driest season in another.
• Typical Rainy Season Patterns: During wetter months, mornings are usually clear, with showers arriving in the afternoon. Occasionally, prolonged low-pressure systems bring continuous rain, most likely between August and October (except for the Caribbean, where these months tend to be drier).
Crowds: When to Expect More Visitors
Costa Rica is never as crowded as mass tourism destinations, but peak travel periods can mean higher prices, fuller hotels, and less personalized service.
Busiest Travel Times:
• December 15 – Early January (Holiday season & New Year’s)
• U.S. Presidents’ Week (February – a bit less crowded than the holidays)
• Spring Break & Easter Week (March-April)
Best Time for Fewer Crowds:
• Mid-April to Mid-November is considered the “green season,” offering more availability, better rates, and fewer tourists at popular attractions.
Best Time for Activities in Costa Rica
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a wildlife photographer, timing can make all the difference. Here’s when and where to go for your favorite experiences:
Birdwatching
• Year-round: Costa Rica is a paradise for birders, but here are some seasonal highlights:o Spring Migration: March – April (North American birds heading back to breeding grounds)
o Fall Migration: July – October (Migratory birds from North America arrive for winter)
o Raptor Migration: September – October
Diving & Snorkeling
• Caño Island & Central/South Pacific: Best from mid-December to April (least rain, better visibility)
• Bat & Catalina Islands (North Pacific): Best in September & October (least wind)
• Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo & Cahuita): Best in September & October (less rain, better visibility)
Fishing
• North Atlantic (Tarpon & Snook): September & October
• Central & South Pacific (Marlin, Sailfish, Rooster Fish): June & July
• North Pacific (Sailfish): January – May
• Lake Arenal (Rainbow Bass): January – May
Golf
• Anytime your swing is ready! Costa Rica’s golf courses are playable year-round.
Wildlife Spotting
• Monkeys: Year-round! Best places: Tortuguero, Corcovado, Manuel Antonio
• Orchids: Year-round. Best places: Monteverde, Cerro de la Muerte (Cloud Forests)
• Sloths: Year-round. Best places: Tortuguero, Arenal, Corcovado
Sea Turtle Nesting & Hatching
• Atlantic Green Turtles (Tortuguero):
o Nesting: June – October (Peak: July & August)
o Hatching: August – November (Best before dawn)
• Atlantic Leatherbacks (Matina):
o Nesting: February – July
o Hatching: April – September
• Pacific Leatherbacks (Playa Grande):
o Nesting: Late October – Mid-February
o Hatching: Late December – Mid-March
• Pacific Ridleys (Ostional):
o Nesting: May – November
o Hatching: July – January
o Best time to see both nesting & hatching: July – November
Whale Watching
Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, thanks to the Humpback Whale Migration from both hemispheres.
• North American Humpbacks: December – April
• South American Humpbacks: June – October
• The only months with no humpbacks? May & November
White-Water Rafting
• Best for High Water (Thrill Seekers): June – November (some risks of cancellations due to excessive water levels)
• Best for Medium Water Levels: December, January, and May
• Best for Low Water Levels: February – April (some risk of rivers being too low)
When Should You Travel Then?
Ultimately, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your interests. If you prefer dry weather and don’t mind crowds, December to April is ideal. If you’re looking for fewer tourists, lush green landscapes, and great wildlife viewing, consider the green season (May to November).
Still not sure when to visit? Contact us or email us at gustavo.mendez@tamtravel.com, and we’ll help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your preferences. Reach out to TAM Costa Rica today!