in Costa Rica: when to go?
tropical humide climate
Costa Rica enjoys a humid tropical climate with two distinct seasons that shape the country's rhythm. The dry season, called "verano" by locals, runs from December to April and is the ideal period to discover this Central American gem. During these months, temperatures range between 20°C and 32°C with generous sunshine and minimal rainfall, perfect for wildlife observation, hiking in national parks and relaxing on the beaches. The rainy season, from May to November, transforms the landscape into a lush green setting but comes with intense tropical showers, particularly from September to October. Temperatures remain pleasant year-round thanks to the altitude and ocean influences, but humidity can be challenging. To make the most of the volcanoes, Monteverde cloud forest and the Pacific and Caribbean beaches, choose the period from December to April.
- Best period
- December to April
- Good alternatives
- May to August, November
- Rainy season
- September to October
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Costa Rica
UnfavorableLocated between 8° and 11° north latitude, Costa Rica enjoys a tropical climate moderated by altitude and two oceans. Th...
Vallée centrale et volcans
UnfavorableCôte Pacifique Nord
UnfavorableCôte Pacifique Sud
Not recommendedForêts de nuages
UnfavorableCôte caribéenne
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
13° — 33°C
Precipitation
78 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for volcanoes and beaches. Peak season, book early.
Temperature
13° — 34°C
Precipitation
51 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Driest month of the year. Ideal for all outdoor activities.
Temperature
14° — 35°C
Precipitation
50 mm
Average temperature
4.3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
End of dry season excellent. Temperatures rising but tolerable.
Temperature
14° — 35°C
Precipitation
100 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
First rains but short. Still favorable for tourism.
Temperature
14° — 33°C
Precipitation
242 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Transition towards the rainy season. Often sunny mornings.
Temperature
14° — 32°C
Precipitation
282 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Regular afternoon showers. Lush nature and fewer tourists.
Temperature
14° — 33°C
Precipitation
242 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Relative respite from rainfall. Popular period for Europeans on holiday.
Temperature
14° — 32°C
Precipitation
273 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
More frequent rainfall. Challenging for extended outdoor activities.
Temperature
14° — 31°C
Precipitation
348 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Heaviest rainfall of the year. Difficult road conditions in some regions.
Temperature
14° — 31°C
Precipitation
363 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Heavy rains continue. Some parks may close temporarily.
Temperature
14° — 32°C
Precipitation
215 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Progressive decrease in rainfall. Favorable transition towards the dry season.
Temperature
13° — 33°C
Precipitation
126 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Return of fine weather and sunshine. Start of the high tourism season.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Costa Rica
The best months to visit in Costa Rica are December, January, February, March, April. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Costa Rica remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 24.5°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Costa Rica mainly affects September, October. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Costa Rica during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Costa Rica is optimal during the dry season, between December, January, February, March, April. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Costa Rica, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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