Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

The best month to visit Costa Rica depends on what you want to experience. For sun-seekers and beach lovers, the dry season from December to mid-April is ideal. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for lounging on the beaches or exploring coastal regions.

If you prefer fewer crowds and still want to enjoy pleasant weather, consider visiting in May or June. This marks the beginning of the "green" season, where mornings are usually sunny, but afternoons may bring refreshing rain showers. It is also when Costa Rica’s flora truly comes to life.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find July and August to be the best time for spotting animals, as the wet season draws creatures out into the open. Budget travellers prefer September and October when tourist numbers drop and discounts on accommodation and travel are more common.

Finally, surfers should aim for the period between August and November, when the waves are at their peak along the Pacific coast.

When planning a trip to Costa Rica, understanding the country’s seasonal variations can help you decide the best season to visit based on your preferences.

Costa Rica experiences three distinct travel seasons: the shoulder season, peak season and low season. Each offers unique advantages depending on what you are looking to experience during your visit.

-Peak Season in Costa Rica - December to April

The peak season, also known as the dry season, runs from December to April. This is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica, particularly for those looking to enjoy the sun-drenched beaches and outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining and exploring national parks. Also, the best weather in Costa Rica can be enjoyed during this time.

The weather during this time is consistently warm and dry, especially in the Pacific and Central Valley regions, making it perfect for beach vacations and nature adventures. However, with great weather comes larger crowds and higher prices, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended.

-Low Season in Costa Rica - July to October

The low season, from July to October, coincides with Costa Rica’s rainy season. While this might deter some travellers, it is the best time for those who want to experience the country’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty at its most vibrant.

Additionally, this season offers the best surfing conditions along the Pacific coast, particularly from August to November. September and October are the wettest months, but they also bring fewer tourists and the most significant discounts on accommodations and tours.

-Shoulder Season in Costa Rica - May to June and November

The shoulder seasons in Costa Rica occur in May to June and November, offering a balance between good weather, fewer crowds and more affordable prices. In May and June, you will experience the beginning of the "green" season, where mornings are generally sunny and afternoons bring brief rain showers. This period is excellent for travellers who enjoy lush landscapes and vibrant plant life.

November is another excellent time to visit, as it marks the end of the rainy season. The weather starts to clear up, making it a great time to explore the country's natural beauty without the peak season rush. Hotels and tours are often discounted during these months, providing a more budget-friendly option for travellers.

Costa Rica offers something special every month of the year, making it a versatile destination no matter when you choose to visit.

January in Costa Rica

January is one of the most popular months to visit Costa Rica due to its warm, dry weather. The beaches of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula are particularly inviting, with endless sunshine and clear skies. Manuel Antonio National Park is another top destination, offering a mix of pristine beaches and lush rainforests.

January is also an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to spot sloths, monkeys and tropical birds. The New Year celebrations bring a festive atmosphere, with parades, music and dancing across the country.

Average Temperature: 79 F

Best Places to Visit: Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula, Manuel Antonio National Park

Things to Experience: Beach vacations, wildlife spotting, New Year celebrations

February in Costa Rica

February continues the trend of dry, sunny weather, making it a perfect time to explore Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems. The Monteverde Cloud Forest offers a cooler climate, ideal for canopy tours and exploring the rich biodiversity.

Tortuguero National Park, with its labyrinth of waterways, is a great place for birdwatching and encountering the region's unique wildlife. February is also an excellent time to visit Arenal Volcano, where you can relax in the natural hot springs and enjoy views of the imposing volcano.

Average Temperature: 80 F

Best Places to Visit: Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano

Things to Experience: Canopy tours, birdwatching, hot springs

March in Costa Rica

March marks the height of the dry season, making it one of the best months to enjoy Costa Rica’s beaches and natural beauty. The Osa Peninsula is a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Corcovado National Park.

Playa Tamarindo is a top spot for surfing, offering waves suitable for all levels. In San José, you can immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture by attending the International Arts Festival, which features performances, art exhibitions and street food.

Average Temperature:** 82 F

Best Places to Visit: Osa Peninsula, Playa Tamarindo, San José

Things to Experience: Whale watching, surfing, cultural festivals

April in Costa Rica

April is the last month of the dry season, offering plenty of sunshine before the rains begin. The Nicoya Peninsula’s beaches remain a top attraction, with warm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast is known for its laid-back vibe, reggae music and vibrant nightlife.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park is ideal for those interested in volcanic landscapes. Hiking trails lead to craters, hot springs and waterfalls. April also sees Easter celebrations, where processions and events fill the streets with religious fervour and tradition.

Average Temperature: 83 F

Best Places to Visit: Nicoya Peninsula, Puerto Viejo, Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Things to Experience: Easter celebrations, beach vacations, volcanic hikes

May in Costa Rica

May ushers in the "green" season, with occasional afternoon rains bringing Costa Rica’s landscapes to life. This is a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and do not mind a bit of rain. Manuel Antonio’s beaches and forests are lush and vibrant, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Montezuma, with its bohemian atmosphere, is perfect for a laid-back getaway.

La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano, is a great base for exploring waterfalls and rainforests. Visitors can also see the area’s vegetation in full bloom.

Average Temperature: 82 F

Best Places to Visit: Manuel Antonio, Montezuma, La Fortuna

Things to Experience: Green season blooms, fewer crowds, waterfall hikes

June in Costa Rica

June is another month within the green season, offering a mix of sunny mornings and rainy afternoons. The Caribbean Coast, particularly Tortuguero, is a must-visit for those interested in sea turtle nesting, as this is the beginning of the season.

Birdwatching in San Gerardo de Dota, home to the resplendent quetzal, is another highlight. For a cooler climate and misty hikes, the cloud forests provide a serene escape into nature.

Average Temperature: 81 F

Best Places to Visit: Caribbean Coast, Tortuguero, San Gerardo de Dota

Things to Experience: Sea turtle nesting, birdwatching, cloud forest hikes

July in Costa Rica

July is part of the rainy season, but it also coincides with the "mini-summer" or "veranillo," a brief period of reduced rainfall. This makes it an excellent time for surfing along the Central Pacific Coast, with Playa Hermosa and Jaco offering great waves.

Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula also remain popular for beach vacations. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting animals in the rainforests, while the Fiesta de la Virgen del Mar in Puntarenas adds a cultural touch with parades, music and traditional foods.

Average Temperature: 80 F

Best Places to Visit: Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula, Central Pacific Coast

Things to Experience: Surfing, wildlife spotting, cultural festivals

August in Costa Rica

August sees continued rainfall, but this also brings Costa Rica’s rainforests to their peak vibrancy. Monteverde’s cloud forests offer cool, misty trails perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife. Arenal remains a top destination for adventure sports like zip-lining, white-water rafting and canyoning.

Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula is ideal for surfers looking to ride some of the country's best waves. Despite the rain, the warm temperatures and lush landscapes make August a rewarding time to visit.

Average Temperature: 81 F

Best Places to Visit: Monteverde, Arenal, Santa Teresa

Things to Experience: Wildlife spotting, adventure sports, surfing

September in Costa Rica

September is one of Costa Rica's rainiest months, but it is also a fantastic time to explore the Caribbean Coast. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita offer a unique blend of Caribbean culture, with lively music, delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tortuguero continues to be a prime location for witnessing sea turtle nesting, with fewer tourists around. This is also the cheapest time to travel to Costa Rica. This month is ideal for budget travellers, as accommodation prices drop and the country’s natural beauty is at its most intense.

Average Temperature: 80 F

Best Places to Visit: Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Tortuguero

Things to Experience: Caribbean culture, fewer tourists, sea turtle nesting

October in Costa Rica

October remains within the wet season in Costa Rica, but it is a great time to experience Costa Rica’s rainforests and cultural events. The Osa Peninsula, with its remote rainforests, offers incredible wildlife encounters, while Puerto Viejo remains a vibrant spot for Caribbean culture.

San José hosts the National Theater Festival, showcasing Costa Rican performing arts. Travellers in October will enjoy fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation and tours, making it a budget-friendly time to visit.

Average Temperature: 80 F

Best Places to Visit: Puerto Viejo, San José, Osa Peninsula

Things to Experience: Rainforest exploration, cultural events, budget travel

November in Costa Rica

November marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, making it a great time to visit for those seeking a mix of lush landscapes and improving weather. The Papagayo Peninsula offers beautiful beaches with fewer crowds, and Manuel Antonio is ideal for enjoying both beach and rainforest experiences.

Monteverde’s cloud forests are still misty and magical, perfect for nature walks and canopy tours. November is also a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and more availability at hotels and lodges.

Average Temperature: 79 F

Best Places to Visit: Papagayo Peninsula, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde

Things to Experience: Transitional weather, green landscapes, fewer tourists

December in Costa Rica

December is the start of Costa Rica’s peak travel season, offering warm, sunny days as the country transitions fully into the dry season. Tamarindo and Nosara are top spots for beachgoers and surfers, with excellent conditions for catching waves.

Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts looking to spot everything from jaguars to tapirs.

December also brings festive holiday celebrations with colourful parades, fireworks and traditional Costa Rican feasts. It is a vibrant time to visit, but it is also essential to book accommodations and tours in advance, as it is one of the busiest months of the year.

Average Temperature: 78 F

Best Places to Visit: Tamarindo, Nosara, Corcovado National Park

Things to Experience: Holiday celebrations, surfing, wildlife watching

Travelling to Costa Rica promises an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and exciting activities. However, even in paradise, unexpected events can happen. This is where overseas travel insurance becomes crucial.

Whether it is dealing with sudden flight cancellations, lost luggage or medical emergencies in a foreign country, having a reliable Costa Rica travel insurance plan can save you from significant stress and financial burden.

TATA AIG’s travel insurance policy is designed to offer comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs. These plans cover a wide range of scenarios, including trip cancellations, medical expenses, emergency evacuations and more.

With TATA AIG, you can explore Costa Rica’s rainforests, beaches and volcanoes with peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against unforeseen incidents. Investing in international travel insurance online with us ensures that your Costa Rican adventure remains memorable for all the right reasons, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip without worrying about the "what-ifs."

Choosing the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on what you want to experience. Whether you are drawn to the sun-soaked beaches during the dry season, the lush greenery of the rainy season, or the vibrant wildlife throughout the year, Costa Rica offers something unique in every season. Understanding the weather patterns and seasonal highlights can help you plan the perfect trip.

No matter when you visit, Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity and welcoming culture promise an unforgettable adventure.

Is it cheaper to visit Costa Rica during the low season?

Yes, visiting Costa Rica during the low season (July to October) is generally cheaper. You will find discounts on accommodations and tours, and there are fewer tourists, making it a great time for budget-conscious travellers.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a trip to Costa Rica from India?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for visiting Costa Rica from India. However, it is highly recommended. Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected events and ensures peace of mind and financial protection during your trip.

What is the worst time to visit Costa Rica?

The "worst" time to visit Costa Rica depends on your preferences. Late December through January can be challenging due to the large crowds and higher costs during peak tourist season.

If you want to avoid rainfall entirely, the dry season from mid-December to the end of March is your best option. However, if you prefer a quieter experience and lower prices, you should avoid the busiest periods.