Costa Rica's Climate

Costa Rica is a small country with a lot of variety between two coasts: Pacific and Caribbean.

 

In fact, it is said to be a tropical country since it is located on the equatorial line about 10 degrees north. Because of this, there is no winter season and sunlight illuminates the whole year for 12 hours a day.

 

Costa Rica has a dry season and a rainy season (some call it green season). Despite the different seasons, temperatures throughout the year are mild and range from 70º to 81ºF.

 

On the beaches it is somewhat different, as temperatures are warmer and can rise to 89ºF.

 

The coolest months are from November to January and the hottest months are from March to May. Also, the average rainfall in Costa Rica is 100 inches, but in the mountainous regions it can reach up to 25 feet.

 

Rainy Season

 

Costa Rica is an incredible destination for travelers looking to explore nature and culture.

 

The country has a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches to its lush rainforests. But one of the best times to visit Costa Rica is during the rainy season, which generally runs from May through November.

 

At this time, visitors can take advantage of prime time for certain seasonal activities, such as turtle nesting tours, bird watching excursions and rainforest hikes.

 

In addition, visitors will find that prices are lower during this time and there is less competition for accommodations and activities. So, if you are looking for a unique experience in Costa Rica, the rainy season is a wonderful time to explore!

 

Why is Costa Rica's climate so diverse?

 

Costa Rica has the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. These two are almost close neighbors and share the trade winds. To give an example: Guanacaste, on the Pacific coast has a dry climate and tropical dry forests, while Tortuguero, located in the Caribbean has a humid climate and rains almost all year round; these two regions are only 124 miles away from each other.

 

However, there is something else that influences the diversity: the topography, with high mountainous elevations rising below sea level and active volcanoes that can affect the climate with their ash.

 

Dry season, the best time to visit Costa Rica?

 

If you are looking for the perfect time to explore its beauty, the dry season is the best time to visit.

This period is when the country experiences its peak of visitors and tourism, making it an ideal time to participate in all kinds of activities.

From canopying through the rainforests to exploring its stunning beaches, there is something for everyone during Costa Rica's dry season.

 

The country is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, as well as its temperate climate. During the dry season, which runs from December through April, the Central Valley enjoys perpetual spring-like weather, with average daily temperatures of 73ºF.

 

On the other hand, on the beach, the temperature can reach up to 104ºC, but nights are cooled by the fresh sea breeze and tourist attractions will be much more crowded during this time of the year.

 

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica

 

If you wish to visit the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, it is important to know the following facts.

 

Here, the climate is more humid than in the rest of the country. In September and October, which are the rainiest months, it is ideal to visit Tortuguero and the areas of Puerto Viejo, as this is the "summer" season in the Caribbean and the weather is sunnier.

 

Overall, Costa Rica's two climatic seasons offer travelers opportunities to enjoy their stay. With its diverse climate, visitors can take advantage of a variety of activities throughout the year. Whether you are looking for a tropical getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

 

The best time to visit depends on the type of experience you are looking for, from the dry season in the north to the wet season in the south, but no matter where you go, you are sure to find something that will make your trip unforgettable!