The best month to travel to Costa Rica

The best month to travel to Costa Rica

Image by Koen One Stop Map from Pixabay

The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April when the weather is at its driest and brightest. 

Costa Rica is a beautiful country located between Nicaragua and Panama. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two seasons: dry season (May through October) and wet season (November through April).

During the dry season, the weather is pleasant and sunny. During the rainy season, however, there are frequent storms and heavy rain.

If you're looking for a great vacation destination, Costa Rica is a must. It's safe, affordable, and offers plenty of adventure.

 

Video:  Mojo Travels

Costa Rica Climate Guide

Costa Rica Climate
Image by Antonio López from Pixabay 

 

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, and active volcanoes.

The climate varies greatly throughout the country, depending on elevation and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. There are two distinct seasons: wet (rainy) and dry (summer).

During the rainy season (May through November), there are frequent showers and thunderstorms. During this period, temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F.

During the dry season (December through April), the weather is warm and sunny. Temperatures range from 74°F to 84°F.

The average temperature during the entire year in Costa Rica is 77°F.

There are four main regions in Costa Rica: North, Central, South, and Guanacaste. Each region has different climates based on altitude and proximity to the ocean.

North Region: This area includes the capital city of San Jose and the cities of Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago, Turrialba, Limon, Ciudad Colón, Liberia, Puntarenas, and Santa Cruz de Osos.

Central Region: This area includes most of the country's major cities, including San José, Escazú, Heredia, Alajuela, Grecia, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Jacó, Quepos, Palmar Sur, and Corcovado.

South Region: This area includes San Isidro, Cahuita, Puerto Jiménez, Drake Bay, Uvita, Siquirres, Golfito, Bahía Solano, Mal País, Playa Hermosa, Manzanillo, Pavones, and Rincon Rainforest National Park.

Guanacaste Region: This area includes areas near the border with Nicaragua, including Las Vegas, La Cumbre, Rio Blanco, El Castillo, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, and Arenal Volcano National Park.

Rainfall

Image by Basil Smith from Pixabay
Image by Basil Smith from Pixabay 

 

Rainfall in Costa Rica averages between 10 inches (25 centimeters) and 15 inches (38 centimeters). The rainy season runs from May through November. During this period, there are usually two rainy days per week.

Popular Times to Visit Costa Rica

There are two main seasons in Costa Rica: the dry season (May through October) and the rainy season (November through April). The dry season is ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the countryside.

During this period, temperatures average between 70°F and 80°F. Rainfall averages between 10 inches and 15 inches per month.

The rainy season in Costa Rica is perfect for beach vacations, diving, snorkelling, and relaxing. Temperatures average between 75°F and 85°F. Rainfall ranges from 20 inches to 40 inches per month.

Costa Rica Eliminated ALL Covid Related Travel Restrictions as of April

Costa Rica eliminated ALL Covid related travel restrictions as of April 1st. This means you can now visit Costa Rica without any worries about being quarantined upon arrival at the airport.

This is great news for travellers who were planning trips to Costa Rica during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, you can plan your trip knowing that there won't be any quarantine requirements when you arrive.

Crowds Costs and Other Factors?

Costa Rica Flag
Image by Michael Christen from Pixabay 

 

One factor to consider is crowds. Costa Rica is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. The number of tourists visiting the country increases each year. This means that prices go up and hotel rooms fill up quickly.

Another consideration is cost. While Costa Rica is relatively inexpensive compared to most countries, it still costs money to visit. There are many ways to save money while travelling, including booking flights early, staying at hostels instead of hotels, and eating cheaply.

Quick Monthly Summaries

Following are quick summaries for monthly travel to Costa Rica.  Weather doesn't stay the same all year, despite being a tropical environment, it has variations that need to be considered if you travel there.

January

Toucan
Image by FINTAN O' BRIEN from Pixabay 

 

January is a great time to visit Costa Rica because it's warm and sunny, there are fewer tourists, and prices are lower than during peak season.

And if you're planning a family trip, January is a great time to go because hotels and resorts are cheaper, even the all-inclusive resorts.

There are many reasons to visit Costa Rica in January, including these top five reasons:

  1. Prices are lower.

  2. Fewer tourists.

  3. Beautiful weather.

  4. Quieter beaches.

  5. Family-friendly.

February

Sloth
Image by Minke Wink from Pixabay 

 

February is the second-best month to visit Costa Rica because it's warm and dry. The weather is perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

 

 

March - April

Waterfall
Image by Frank Ravizza from Pixabay 

 

March and April in Costa Rica, are the best months to go because they're peak season. This means there are fewer tourists and prices are lower than during the off-season (May through December).

But be warned: this doesn't mean you won't find crowds at these times. The country still attracts thousands of tourists every single day. So if you're looking for peace and quiet, avoid visiting during the off-season.

May - June

Beach sunset
Image by knobbyB from Pixabay 

 

But there's no better time than May through June when temperatures average between 75°F and 85°F. This makes this period ideal for travelling to Costa Rica because it's not too hot or too cold.

If you're looking for a cheap vacation, consider visiting Costa Rica during these months. You'll find plenty of hotels at bargain prices, and you won't need to worry about finding accommodations during peak tourist season.

There are many reasons to visit Costa Rica from May through June, including:

  • Low airfare rates

  • Cheap hotel rooms

  • Few crowds

  • Warm weather

  • No hurricanes

  • Great wildlife viewing

  • Beautiful beaches

  • Easy access to major cities

July - August

Costa Rican Beach
Image by Kristendawn from Pixabay 

 

Travelling during the summer months is great because there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. However, July and August are peak tourist seasons in Costa Rica, so expect crowds and higher prices.

If you plan to visit Costa Rica during July or August, be prepared for the heat. Temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during the day.

September - October

Anteater
Image by Kristendawn from Pixabay 

 

Travelling during September and October is a great way to avoid the crowds and lower prices of peak season. The weather in Costa Rica is still warm enough to be comfortable, but not too hot to wear shorts and sandals. And there's no rain until November.

Nayara Springs - Adults Only, La Fortuna, Costa Rica

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, San Jose Pinilla, Costa Rica

 

November - December

Sunset at the beach
Image by Frank Ravizza from Pixabay 

 

Travelling during the winter months is great because you're guaranteed warm weather and fewer crowds. But travelling in November or December means you'll be visiting when the rainy season begins. This is not ideal because rainstorms can last days at a time and cause flooding and landslides.

Reason Prices Dip and So Do the Crowds

When the price of flights dips, so does the number of tourists visiting Costa Rica.

Why? Because there are fewer tourists than usual, the remaining ones are willing to pay less for their vacation. This means that the average hotel room rate drops, too.

This dip in tourism occurs every year at this time, between May and July. The reason is simple: the rainy season begins in April and lasts until October. During this period, many travellers prefer to stay closer to home rather than brave the rain and humidity in Costa Rica.

Reason It’s Sun Season in Certain Areas

Frog
Image by Antonio López from Pixabay 

 

Sun season is when the weather is warmest and most beautiful in Costa Rica. This means that you should plan your trip during this time.

Costa Rica is divided into two regions: the Pacific and the Atlantic. The Pacific region experiences sun season between May and October, while the Atlantic region experiences sun season between November and April.

Times to Avoid

Here are three times to avoid:

• December through March. The rainy season lasts from November until April, and this is the best time to visit. However, during this period, many hotels and restaurants close down because of the weather.

• July through September. This is hurricane season, and most tourists stay away.

• January through May. During these months, temperatures are too hot for comfort.

In short, Costa Rica is beautiful at any point in the year, but certain months offer better conditions than others. 

Holidays

Dancers
Image by prohispano from Pixabay 

 

There are many holidays throughout the world. Some are national celebrations, others religious events and some are just plain fun. But there's only one holiday that everyone should consider visiting—Costa Rica's annual Carnival.

Carnival is celebrated every February in San José, Costa Rica, and lasts two weeks. The festivities include parades, street parties, concerts, and fireworks.

During carnival, hotels and restaurants offer special discounts and deals, making it a great time to visit. And because most of the country shuts down during carnival, you won't be bothered by crowds.

Christmas and New Year's celebrations in Costa Rica

The Christmas holiday season is celebrated here with parties, parades, and fireworks.

New Year's Eve is also a special time to visit Costa Rica because many people celebrate with a huge party at the beach.

And remember, Costa Rica is a very safe place to visit. There are no major terrorist threats, and crime rates are low. 

Spring festivals and public holidays in Costa Rica

Festival Dancers
Image commons.wikimedia.org

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica this spring, there are several festivals and public holidays worth considering. Here's a list of some of the most popular ones.

Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen (March) - This festival honors the patron saint of Costa Rica, who was born in Guanacaste. The festivities include concerts, parades, and fireworks.

Semana Santa (Holy Week) - Holy Week is celebrated throughout the country during March and April. During this period, churches and cathedrals are decorated with flowers and statues of saints.

Carnaval (February/March) - Carnaval is celebrated in San José and Escazú. It features colorful costumes, music, dancing, and food.

Día de los Muertos (November 1st) - Día de los Muertes is a Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones. People decorate gravesites with flowers and candles.

Summer festivals and public holidays in Costa Rica

Festival of Lights
Image by commons.wikimedia.org

 

Here are some of the top events happening this summer in Costa Rica:

* The Feria de la Nación (National Fair) - July 1st through August 25th

This annual event features food, music, arts, crafts, and games. It's held at the National Stadium in San Jose.

* Festival del Mar - July 15th through September 30th

This festival celebrates the sea and its bounty. It includes concerts, boat races, and fireworks.

* Festival Internacional de las Artes y las Ciencias (International Arts & Sciences Festival) - July 16th through August 31st

This annual event features art exhibits, dance performances, lectures, and musical performances. It takes place in Escazu, near San José.

* Fiesta de los Diablitos (Festival of the Little People) - July 20th through August 4th

This celebration honors the indigenous people who live in the mountains of Guanacaste and Orosi. It includes parades, dancing, and traditional foods.

* Festival de la Tortuga (Turtle Festival) - July 21st through August 24th

This festival commemorates the founding of Cartago, Costa Rica's capital city. It includes cultural activities, sports competitions, and street fairs.

Best Times to Visit Costa Rica for Wildlife Spotting

Iguana
Image by Schmucki from Pixabay 

 

Costa Rica is home to some amazing wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and parrots. But there are also many different types of birds, reptiles, insects, and mammals.

However, during the dry season, you may be able to find animals in areas where water is scarce. This means you may not be able to see them, but you can still hear them.

• Be patient. Animals tend to be more active at dawn and dusk, and they're often out and about after dark.

• Look for signs. Many animals leave behind tracks or droppings that indicate their presence.

• Listen carefully. Some animals communicate using sounds, such as chirping, whistling, and roaring.

• Keep your eyes open. You might catch sight of a monkey swinging through the treetops, or a sloth hanging from a branch.

• Don't feed the animals. Feeding wild animals is illegal in Costa Rica, and it can cause problems for local ecosystems.

• Stay safe. Never approach wild animals. They can become aggressive if threatened.

Best Times to Visit Costa Rica for Birding

Keel Billed Toucan

Birding season runs from March through October. The peak months are April through June and September through November. During these months, you're most likely to find birds at their feeding stations.

If you visit during the off-peak months, you may not be able to see many birds. But you can still enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica.

During the winter months (December through February), the climate is cooler than average. This means fewer birds are active, but you can still enjoy the scenery.

What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica for turtle spotting?

Turtle
Image by Manuel de la Fuente from Pixabay 

 

If you're looking for a place where you can spot turtles, then you should consider visiting during the months of May through October. This is when the sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs.

During this period, you'll be able to observe them nesting and hatchlings emerging from their shells. The best time of year to go is between mid-May and early June.

This is because the weather is warm enough to keep the nests safe from predators, yet cool enough to prevent the eggs from hatching prematurely.

Turtles are very sensitive to temperature, so if the temperatures rise too quickly, the eggs may not survive. 

Best Times to Visit Costa Rica for Surfing 

Surfers flock to Costa Rica in July and August because the waves are at their peak. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so expect long lines at popular beaches.

Costa Rica has some of the best surfing in the world. Because of the incredibly consistent ocean swells that hit the west coast all year, we'd rank it among the top five surfing spots on the planet.

Best Time to Go to Costa Rica's Cloud Forests

Cloud on mountains
Image by Greg Montani from Pixabay 

 

Costa Rica's cloud forests are some of the most beautiful places on Earth. They're home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, including jaguars, monkeys, sloths, poison dart frogs, and many others.

But the best way to experience these amazing ecosystems is during the dry season when the rainforest is at its greenest and most lush. The rainy season lasts from May through November. During this period, the cloud forest is filled with flowers, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

During the dry season, however, the cloud forest is quiet and peaceful. There are no tourists, and the roads are empty. This makes it possible to hike deep into the jungle and explore the flora and fauna.

Conclusion

Costa Rica is a beautiful country with amazing beaches, rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but there are some months when it's especially beautiful.

Gallery

(images by Pixabay.com

Things to do in Costa Rica

 

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