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Exploring Costa Rica

When to visit Costa Rica

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s peak season runs between December and April on the Pacific coast and March to September on the Caribbean side when it is at its brightest and driest. The green season is between May and June when the seasons are in transition and the country is quieter. Travel is still very popular over the summer months and in fact as long as you miss the heavy rains of September and October you should be greeted with plenty of sunshine throughout your trip. As its s a tropical country, you should be prepared for rain at any time of year, even in the dry season but it is this rainfall that makes it such a luscious and beautiful country.

January – April

This is Costa Rica’s high season and it is through these months that you will get the least amount of rainfall. However as the country has such plentiful rainforest, some rainfall should always be expected. It is at this time the country has the most visitors and the national parks and beaches are busier. This is especially the case in January and over the Easter break. The good weather does offer fantastic conditions for viewing wildlife, relaxing on the beaches and trying plenty of activities full of adventure.

May – June

As May sets in this is known as the start to Costa Rica’s ‘green season’ when rainfall does become more frequent however there is still an abundance of warm sunshine and the rains bring the luscious green landscapes back. National parks and beaches are quieter at this time and accommodation is easier to book. Additionally there are better swells for surfers and most adventure activities go ahead whatever the weather so your holiday will continue as normal apart form some potential pool swims in the afternoon rain!

July – August

Rainfall is starting to increase over these two months but it doesn’t and shouldn’t deter visitors. It is of course a popular time for people with school-age children to visit and the whole host of activities on offer continue through any afternoon rains. It is also a great time for wildlife lovers as green sea turtles nest on the coastline of Tortuguero, and the whale watching season begins around Dominical. For beach lovers and sun seekers the far northern Pacific coast receives the lowest year-round rainfall in Costa Rica.

September – November

The rains in Costa Rica are at the heaviest over these months and we wouldn’t recommend travel. The long days make wildlife spotting difficult and activities may be cancelled. Roads often become difficult to navigate with muddy banks and the possibility of landslides and high rivers.

December

Coming into December most of the rains will have stopped and come the middle of the month the worst rains will certainly be over. The peak season starts again and so early booking is advisable especially over the festive period.

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