worst time to visit costa rica

Japan has objectively no best time to visit as each season offers a different experience and spectacular beauty. 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. 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. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. Lets have a look at them. 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. Tie in a neighbour. The rainy season does not mean that it rains nonstop . September can be a great month to travel or a washout, depending on where you are in Costa Rica. Most of the rain that falls in November comes towards the beginning of the month. 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. 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. Copyright 2023 The Discovery Nut | Privacy Policy, Best time to visit Costa Rica + When to Avoid A complete guide [2023], 7 Days In Costa Rica: How To Plan Your Itinerary, 22 Best Things To Do In Costa Rica in 2023. However, it is good to note that this is a problem experienced in nations with the same economic strength as Costa Rica. I spent the first half of this year living in Nosara, Costa . We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. Therefore, you may consider visiting Costa Ricas northern Pacific coast to enjoy the regions pleasant environment if youre looking for the countrys highest temperature. Discover Costa Rica's cloud forests, coral reefs and volcanos in new and exciting ways on these four amazing tours; The 50 most attractive nationalities revealed: India is No.1, USA comes second . Its the best month to visit Costa Rica for the sunniest weather, with about of the days being sunny. . Ask the locals or your tour guide if you do not understand what to do. In such a scenario, local conservative members may discriminate against you if you are from a country that supports a topic they are not comfortable with. You must also be aware that some locations are susceptible to flooding and landslides. 6. I'm happy that you landed on my page and hope to inspire your wanderlust and encourage you to get outside your comfort zone. What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? Therefore, different regions in the country have very different scenery and weather. The WORST Times to Visit Costa Rica Christmas is so busy you NEED to book everything well in advance! This is partly the result of higher elevations. See average Costa Rica temperatures, seasonal weather patterns, pricing differences between the two seasons, and the least crowded time of year to visit below. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 13 days with rain, receiving about 6 inches of rain total. Everything begins to look much more green as the rain brings the rainforest to life. May is sometimes referred to as the magical month. Here the Gringos are enjoying summer and escaping Winter at the same time. They are more likely to experience an increase in total rainfall. 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. The mountain areas are constantly receiving rains and unpredictable weather changes this month, and you are highly discouraged from having outdoor camping this month. 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. Palmeros Festival in Costa Rica takes place in January and draws in a ton of visitors (about 1 hour from San Jose) and includes concerts, dancing, and food sampling. 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. July and August are popular travel times due to less rain, family summer vacations, and active green season wildlife. We understand that you are excited that you know when and where to visit when you are in Costa Rica but hold on. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. Costa Rica boasts 800 miles of pristine coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, If you enjoy the snow, low crowds, and value season pricing, January and February are the best . At the Nicoya Peninsula, plants are starting to flower, and you can take one of the best photos you have ever had. However, the rainy season isnt quite as severe as one might imagine, which is why the term green season has gained popularity instead of wet season because the countrys jungles, forests, and flowers use the rainfall to blossom and turn green.. For example, both La Fortuna and San Jose are in the middle of the country, but they experience somewhat different weather. Whether youre looking for lively metro areas with tons of shopping, accommodations, and restaurant options or a tucked-away towns with vibrant and authentic Costa Rican culture, youll find it here. Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. Click here to learn how to make the most out of your trip. For the daring and the experienced, the biggest waves can be found during the rainier months of September and October. The rainy season ends in October, which is the beginning of the shoulder season. 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. All rights reserved. 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. While the days are still warm, nighttime temperatures can drop to -20C, and some tours have pre-dawn starts. 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, Historical Sites and Legends of Costa Rica. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. The temperatures in Costa Rica range between 20 - 30 C year-round. The most interesting feature of the Costa Ricans is their happiness. Its important to note when talking about the rainy season in Costa Rica that often rain will fall mostly in the afternoon, so the mornings will still be clear for your beach time or activities. The Ostional Wildlife Refuge in the Guanacaste Province of Nicoya Peninsula is among the best locations to witness this phenomenon. Best Times To Visit Costa Rica The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. But for cruise visitors, the best and worst times also depend on whether they are visiting the Puntarenas cruise port on the Pacific coast or the Limon cruise port on the Caribbean coast. In December, the temperatures range from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. Prices are more affordable than in the high season from December to April . However, there are many microclimates in Costa Rica. Check my honest comparison to figure out where to go on vacation. The beginning months of dry season are particularly appealing as the landscape is still verdant from the recent green season,despite reducedrainfall. San Jos and the interior has one big difference with the cruise ports on either coast of the country. One destination on most everyones must-see travel list is tropical Costa Rica. Well show you the best time to visit Costa Rica no matter what your goal is the best overall trip, the cheapest, the least busy, and more. The forest has the great Sky Trek zip line, which you can take advantage of. Source: Wikimedia (Creative Commons license), The Puntarenas monthly weather shows some important differences from Limon. This guide will help you make an informed decision about how to plan your adventure and know what to expect during your trip to Costa Rica, whether youre doing activities in La Fortuna or hanging out at the beach in Tamarindo! The start of green season in May is a much needed cool off from the intense heat of the dry season. With fewer demand for airfare, accommodations, and rentals, prices are also cheaper during the low season. Top tips for travelling in Costa Rica. 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. Wildlife watching:Antarctic humpback whales; loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. It is the home of 400 varieties of birds and 2500 plant species and has more than 100 mammals. Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! The above weather chart shows that Limon maintains a steady high temperature throughout the year. Yes, the answer depends on the individual. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. 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. 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. . View our Costa Rica safaris, or talk to one of our specialists for more details on travelling to Costa Rica. This tropical Central American country is nestled between Nicaragua (to the north) and Panama (to the south). Arenal and its surroundings make a . In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 90 F and average low is 72 F. This is a very dry month, with usually only a day of rain. Taking the last general elections, for example, there were serious concerns among the conservatives that there would be a gay deputy president in the country. Wildlife watching:Antarctic humpback whales; green, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, Related Article: 10 Costa Rica Rainy Season Travel Perks. Due to varying elevations and environments, there are multiple microclimates around the country. Tamarindo has dry periods in January, February and March. So while we cant answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. These first few months of the dry season are particularly pleasant since the weather condition is warm and the skies are clear. The best time to visit Costa Rica depends a lot on what you want to do. 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. Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. Rainfall reaches more than three inches in October through December, but the totals are still low compared to the rest of the Caribbean. Costa Rica Climate Guide. Barrio La California, On average, the warmest months are February, March, April and May. In Nicaragua the rainy season means an hour of rain in the afternoon, and it's gorgeous at this time of year. Some of the worst times to visit are also the best in terms of weather, little rainfall, and wildlife spotting opportunities! Some of them include. Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two seasons: dry season and rainy (or, "green," as locals may call it) season. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the entire year. You'll pay more, deal with bigger crowds, and less availability for rooms, flights, and rentals, but hey - it's peak season for a reason. Parque Nacional Volcn Arenal is approximately 17km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna. Scarcely populated, Norrland winter's sub-zero temperatures last for several months. The coasts are generally warmer, and the highlands are generally cooler. Because Costa Rica has many different climate regions, well discuss the areas on the Caribbean Coast, the Pacific Coast, and the middle of the country. Costa Rica is, hands down, a fun vacation destination You have volcanoes rainforests gorgeous Pacific and Caribbean beaches exciting wildlife encounters and adventure activities. 1. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. 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. Weather in February continues to be sunny and dry. Surfing and rafting are fantastic. Costa Rica has a very diverse and changeable climate. All said and done; we hope that you shall enjoy your stay in Costa Rica. It gives amazing green landscapes and lush. There is an easy solution though. Those same two months are the worst months of the year for visiting the rest of the Caribbean because of the annual hurricane season. In conclusion, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your preferences. Here are the top five reasons why: Spectacular sunset at Mansita Beach, Hacienda Pinilla. For instance, due to its proximity to the Caribbean Sea, Tortuguero experiences hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall. While weather is the primary factor, other considerations include an increase in crowded beaches and resorts as well as higher prices. With that, hotel prices rise. They include: According to the Culture Trip, theft is a common type of crime in Costa Rica, so the chances of you losing your values to this are so high. Youll see amazing volcanoes, dense tropical jungles, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and rivers full of life winding throughout the country. Prices are slightly cheaper, crowds arent bad, and the weather is excellent because this is the veranillo or little summer in Costa Rica. 1. The greenery is very lush and abundant, and waterfalls are at their maximum flow. Fortunately, this travel guide provides vital information on the best as well as the worst time to visit Costa Rica to enable you to plan an ideal travel itinerary. The good thing with Costa Rica rains is that they start softly before gradually picking. Many report that November and early December are the best times to go on a budget. Costa Rica rarely experiences the direct impact of a hurricane on the Caribbean or Pacific coasts. Also, when it isnt rainy, it will still usually be cloudy. Packing insect repellent is also vital because rainy weather increases mosquito infestations. Please note we recommend a budget of from 7,000 / $10,000 USD per person for our style of trip to this destination. Most days remain sunny, and they receive afternoon showers which help keep the temperatures steady. 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. In October, the rains are heavy, making some parts of the country mildly inaccessible. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 10 days of rain and 4.5 inches of rain falling during the month. Costa Rica is known for its national parks and vast protected areas. When you visit at this time of year, youll only get glimpses of the ideal Costa Rican weather because theres so much rainfall. 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. Costa Rica Pacific vs Caribbean Coast: Which is Best for You? It is the period of heavy rainfall though being a tropical country, about of the skies pouring can be expected anytime. The beautiful flowering trees that flourish during this period, such as the Corteza Amarilla, which exhibits an amazing blaze of yellow blossoms under the scorching sun, will stand out among the dried leaves. Avoid Puntarenas and San Jos during the summer and fall, but plan to visit during the winter and early spring. 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. From scarlet macaws to slow-moving sloths, you will be astounded at the diversity of life youll find in this country. Not a day goes by for me without planning new adventures and looking for some scenic spots. In a nutshell, Costa Rica is a place you should never visit. The wet season is also an ideal time to spot humpback whales in the Osa Peninsula. You wont run into frigid temperatures when you visit here, no matter what time of year you go. The light rains during July and August are nothing compared to the deluges common in September through December. But Costa Rica's two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the 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. The average temperature hovers around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26 degrees Celsius) but it can get down . There is generally a spike in tourist traffic over Easter and the week leading up to it. There are some places which, if you make the right decisions on when to visit them, will give you the most extraordinary experience you will ever have. Prices and crowds are at their peak, making this the most expensive and crowded time to visit. Thinking of planning your trip somewhere tropical and not quite settled on Costa Rica? And its much less rainy at this time of year than during May and June (other popular times to visit). Nature and wildlife enthusiasts should also consider visiting during the dry season. In light of this, the ideal season to visit Costa Rica truly depends on which of these three considerations is most important to you. As stated in our introduction, Costa Rica is a democratic country whose president and two deputies are elected through a popular initiative. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. Check out this guide next: Best Time to Visit Hawaii | When to Go & Travel Tips. Hurricane season, from June 1 until Nov. 30, is a time many travelers avoid the Bahamas. The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? In addition, in November, beach activities are very low, crowds are still not picking up early, and this denies the chance to learn more about the culture of the Costa Ricans. Nature is all around you, like this small frog spotted on our journey. So, Whats the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica? with some heavy rain still to be expected until the end of November, but by mid-December the worst will certainly be over. I only hope to bring you information to help you choose your travel dates. The temperature in Costa Rica. Here is your chance if you have never seen the green sea turtle nesting sites. If you want to experience the lush vegetation and smaller crowds, rainy season might be your best bet. James Kaiser has guided visitors on when they should visit different places. The few available hotels are usually aware that in some parts, hotels have closed, so they take advantage of the situation and hike prices. Keep in mind that the landscapes and climates of Costa Rica vary greatly by region. According to Audley Travel, December is probably the best time for those who love outdoor activities. Its simple with our helpful travel tips! In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 9 days of rain and 3 inches of rain falling during 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. The weather in Costa Rica is pretty temperate year-round, but it is best avoided during the wet season. But there are certainly bonuses to traveling here during the low season. The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. These months have little to no rain in most of the country. This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal. Your opportunities for spotting wildlife are best in green season. It is surrounded by very welcoming locals who guide through the waters and the hiking trails. The Limon cruise port on the east coast has two windows of time when the rain lets up a bit. 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. Probably you have been planning on visiting Costa Rica, and you have shed to the internet, the chances are that you are given narrations of how this month is great in Costa Rica. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica in 2023, 15 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Traveling, The 15 Best Hotels in Ocean City, MD in 2023, The 15 Best Hotels in Rome in 2023 | For All Budgets, The Best Hotels in Orlando in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Seattle in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Philadelphia in 2023. 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. December through April is the dry season. In July and August, Costa Rica is in the drier part of the rainy season Costa Ricans call it veranillo or little summer. These numbers dont guarantee the best months to visit Costa Rica because the weather does vary some from year to year. 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. But you should know that this period is also the height of the Costa Rican rainy season. Book early. The best person to decide when you should visit Costa Rica is you. Mid-March to early May and mid-October to early December are the best months to visit Japan due to its stunning colors and mild weather. Mexico or Costa Rica? See average monthly temperatures below. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. The dry season has plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for wildlife watching, beach lounging, and indulging in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. Costa Rica Monthly Weather Averages: Rain, Temperatures, Costa Rica Travel Information: Tips, Attractions, Weather, Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. Here you can do diving, mountain climbing, and snorkeling, among other activities. I tried watching the sunset the other night, and it was just horrible. In that case, it is essential to confirm the destinations condition with the local authorities to see if any advisories are in place. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). In this article, we shall guide you to know the best and the worst times you should visit Costa Rica. The Overmarine group is a shipyard and company that has always produced the Mangusta range of Yachts. Comparatively, if you have been to the state of West Virginia, then expect a country that is slightly smaller than it. If you want to spend time on the beach, the dry season is likely the best time for you. 5. May is a bit of a transitionmonth, in which the rain picks up, but not quiteat the rate oflater greenseason months. On the other hand, there is frequently very little rain from December to April, and there may be no rain in some places. 2017 Scott S. Bateman, Despite heavy year-round rain, clear skies are possible like this one in Zacero. According to Christa from Pura Vida Moms, the worst place to go if you want to avoid mosquitoes in Costa Rica is the Caribbean Coast (around Tortuguero National Park), Osa Penninsula . The worst months are May through October because of a much higher risk. January and February are smack dab in the dry season, with plenty of sunny days and low rain. Rains typically pass quickly at this time of year, delivering much-needed hydration to the lush jungles and rain forests without sticking around long enough to make your beach trip a waste. What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? January through March is typically the worst time to visit Costa Rica. Which side of Costa Rica is Better? Costa Rica ranks top among the nations with the happiest people in the world. You'll pay more, deal with bigger crowds, and less availability for rooms, flights, and rentals, but hey - it's peak season for a reason. 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. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. There is about 2.5 inches of rainfall rain with an average of 5 rainy days per month. To sail in Tahiti means to enjoy not only the beauty of the islands, but also the, Read More The Top 5 Places to Sail in TahitiContinue, California is mostly synonymous with the Hollywood entertainment industry, sunny beaches, and a temperate weather. Source: WikimediaThe best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease.The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. Brrr! Dry and Rainy Seasons Costa Rica has two distinct seasons. Plus, there are no crowds. One of the best ways of, Read More A Travelers Guide to Hiking in Cape CodContinue. Despite its average economy, there is plenty you can enjoy. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 87 F and average low is 73 F. By the end of the month, you have 50% sunny days and 8 days of rain, but the rainy days decrease as the month goes on. The summer or dry season tends to begin in January and extends into April. But be aware that your trip will be more expensive and a little less serene! 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. The hottest month of the year is usually just about 3 degrees Celsius warmer than . Arenal. View our Costa Rica safaris Design your own trip. Cruise activity in the Caribbean declines as a result, so September and October are months when people are more likely to visit the eastern coast of Costa Rica for longer stays. Oh, and before we forget, December gives you another opportunity to see the extraordinary decorations by the Costa Ricans. April is a transitional month. But if beach crowds are more the issue, then the low tourist season of June . Costa Rica ranks 16th on U.S. News & World Report's list of the world's best places to visit, and according to data collected from more than 1.6 million users worldwide on the travel app . The transition months from dry to rainy are April and May. 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. . 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! On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 15 days with rain, receiving about 6.5 inches of rain total.