worst time to visit costa rica

The weather along the Pacific coast is anywhere from somewhat rainy to extreme downpours depending on how far south you go. In July and August, Costa Rica is in the drier part of the rainy season Costa Ricans call it veranillo or little summer. In addition to having some of the sunniest days in the country, the Gold Coast has the least amount of rainfall. , We visited in July and experienced several days of completely clear weather, and some days when there was an hour or two of afternoon rain not bad at all, especially when a lot of the tours in La Fortuna happen in the morning! Rains typically pass quickly at this time of year, delivering much-needed hydration to the lush jungles and rain forests without sticking around long enough to make your beach trip a waste. February and March are the best months for the Limon cruise port while July is the worst. One other way of deciding which months are best for destinations in Costa Rica is by looking at the average number of days that it rains each month. Most popular time to fly with an average 27% increase in price. April typically marks the end of the dry season. Its climate status can be roughly divided into two seasons: the dry season, also known as the high season, and the rainy season, also known as the green season. Monthly Rainfall & Temperature Averagesfor 1960-1990, For a general idea of monthly weather conditions, The World Bank Group has a great tool that shows the average monthly rainfall and temperature in Costa Rica over 20-30 year periods. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 87 F and average low is 72 F,, with about 14 days of rain and 6 inches of rain. Costa Rica is known for its national parks and vast protected areas. Like Limon, Puntarenas has steady temperatures throughout the year. The mountains in the middle of the country create a rain shadow for the Pacific coast throughout part of the year. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. July is very similar to June, with about 16 rainy days and 7 inches of rainfall throughout the month. Afternoons are rainy with typicallyclear mornings (perfect for morning tours). Cloudy skies are here to stay across the country for the next several months, and rainfall continues to increase. Its simple with our helpful travel tips! The weather during this period is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. Taking the last general elections, for example, there were serious concerns among the conservatives that there would be a gay deputy president in the country. 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, Historical Sites and Legends of Costa Rica. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. About every other day will have rain (on average), with about 6 inches of rainfall during the month. Plus, there are no crowds. So, watch out. One thing is for sure, though, your vacation in Costa Rica will be an incredible experience youll never forget! The rest . The currency of Costa Rica is Costa Rica Colon, and according to Xe.com, the 633.75 Colones are trading to the equivalent of $1. In Nicaragua the rainy season means an hour of rain in the afternoon, and it's gorgeous at this time of year. However, if you prefer enjoying your vacation/trip when there are fewer crowds, then the ideal time of year to visit Costa Rica is either May or November. Please consult a Costa Rica Expert on the general climate of your destinations of interest over your travel dates. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. It still erupts from time to time, and if you're lucky, you'll be able to see lava flowing down the volcano. . They're also most crowded. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 13 days with rain, receiving about 6 inches of rain total. Decembers average rainfall of 18 inches equals the entire year of some islands such as the arid Aruba. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. Costa Rica is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. But Costa Rica's two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the year. Most days remain sunny, and they receive afternoon showers which help keep the temperatures steady. You get it all when you visit at this time of year! Cruise activity in the Caribbean declines as a result, so September and October are months when people are more likely to visit the eastern coast of Costa Rica for longer stays. Travelers can still enjoy clear skies, although the vegetation, particularly on the North Pacific Coast, has lost some of its vibrant green sparkle after months of little rain. Rain typically clears up on the Caribbean Coast in September & October. Natural wildlife and beauty aside, Costa Ricas bustling cities are another great reason to visit. Its green season in Costa Rica, but a brief pocket of sunshine breaks up the rain inJuly in what locals call veranillo, or little summer. Next-door neighbours Nicaragua Dropdown content and Panama Dropdown content make the easiest and most obvious add-ons to a sojourn in Costa Rica. As the month goes on, the drier and sunnier it will become, with about 40-50% of the days in November being sunny by the end of the month. Rain is not normally a factor in Aruba because the island is arid and averages only 16 inches a year. Located along the Pacific Coast, the park has light sand beaches, ancient rainforests, coral reefs, and clear water. On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 90 F and average low is 80 F. There are about 3 days with rain, receiving about 1 inch of rain total. Calle 15, San Jos, 133391-1000, Costa Rica, Phone: +5-06-22-57-72-02 Top rated last minute places for couples: Getaways from DC, OK resorts, From Seattle, SD resorts, Bahamas, Casinos near NYC, Lava Tubes Flagstaff, Pueblo, November 7. There are 3 days with rain, receiving less than 1 inch of rain total. This is the peak of green season on the Pacific Coast, but dont let the rain keep you away. The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. The beautiful flowering trees that flourish during this period, such as the Corteza Amarilla, which exhibits an amazing blaze of yellow blossoms under the scorching sun, will stand out among the dried leaves. It is best to keep a raincoat close at all times. Puntarenas has a distinct dry season from December through April. These numbers dont guarantee the best months to visit Costa Rica because the weather does vary some from year to year. Read on to find out the best time to visit Costa Rica by season and region. If you enjoy the snow, low crowds, and value season pricing, January and February are the best . Check my complete guide to the best things to do in Costa Rica for any type of traveler. Since heavy rain incidents can cause problems by making the ground slippery, be extremely cautious when driving during the green season, try to stick to daylight hours, and ensure you have adequate time to reach your destination. The International Living gives a detailed report on the places you should avoid the most in November: Santa Rita de Alajuela, Leon XIIII, Tibas, San Jose, Limon City, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, San Carlos, and the Puntarenas City, Puntarenas. You can travel to the Central Pacific Coat if you are still interested in the sunny weather of April, though slightly lower. Temperatures begin to drop as the hotel prices and number of tourists do. The three worst months of the year to visit Limon are July, November and especially December. To sail in Tahiti means to enjoy not only the beauty of the islands, but also the, Read More The Top 5 Places to Sail in TahitiContinue, California is mostly synonymous with the Hollywood entertainment industry, sunny beaches, and a temperate weather. When the Nation faces two presidential rounds, this polarizes the tourism industry. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. Rain falls approximately every other day (on average), with about 7 inches of rainfall during the month. Total rainfall averages less than one inch from January through March, a little more than one inch in May and December and eight inches or more from May through October. Making the most of your tropical vacation means knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica. The mountain regions are yet to dry, the road in them is clogged with mad, and you can still experience rainfalls at any given time. You should also plan ahead when booking accommodation facilities and activities to get a fair deal before the prices hike. The Pacific Coast is noteworthy, as the north Pacific and the south Pacific coasts see marked differences in weather patterns. If you plan to visit the country during this time, rent your car in Costa Rica ahead of time . It's easiest to reach the park by car or on a tour. It is a democratic republic which is located in Central America. Well show you the best time to visit Costa Rica no matter what your goal is the best overall trip, the cheapest, the least busy, and more. Our advice is to book your holiday vacations well in advance to reserve the best hotel rooms and take advantage of any early bird specials. According to Christa from Pura Vida Moms, the worst place to go if you want to avoid mosquitoes in Costa Rica is the Caribbean Coast (around Tortuguero National Park), Osa Penninsula . As Costa Rica is only 10 degrees above the equator, the temperature doesnt fluctuate very much throughout the year. The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. In that case, it is essential to confirm the destinations condition with the local authorities to see if any advisories are in place. Monteverde is a famous moist and cloudy forest and ranks high among the best natural tourist destinations in the world. November is a transition between the rainy season and the start of the dry season. With less rain, there ismore uninterrupted pool time. The beginning months of dry season are particularly appealing as the landscape is still verdant from the recent green season,despite reducedrainfall. On the typically rainy southern Caribbean Coast, the rain lightens up in September and October, making it a great time to visit. The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? 1. 2020 Scott S. Bateman, Heavy rains produce Costa Ricas famous rainforests. It is in the nation's northern region and towers above the lush surroundings, where the best coffee globally is grown on plantations. From the central capital city of San Jose to smaller towns that dot the dreamy coastlines (we especially love Quepos for its natural beauty and immersive cultural experience), Costa Rica is so alive with culture, tradition, and amazing foods. Overall, October is the coolest month of the year. The worst time to visit Costa Rica is in September and October when lashing rains and floods wash out bridges and roads. One of the best ways of, Read More A Travelers Guide to Hiking in Cape CodContinue. Exact veranillo days and duration vary from year to year, and may even continue into the start of August. May is sometimes referred to as the magical month. Here the Gringos are enjoying summer and escaping Winter at the same time. January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in. It really depends on what your travel goals and priorities are. Start Here Caribbean Costa Rica The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023, Written by: Author Debra Carpenter |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Sometimes, political statements fly across the political scene, discouraging investment in the hotel industry. Due to varying elevations and environments, there are multiple microclimates around the country. With a booming tourism industry and tons of things for everyone to enjoy, anyone whos been to beautiful Costa Rica will tell you youve got to see it to believe it. This is a mixed blessing as you wont burn as easily, but it can inhibit views sometimes. The Most Affordable Time to Visit Costa Rica. 'It's so expensive' were the words on fellow travellers lips. October is the rainiest month. IMPORTANT NOTE: For each of these 3 regions, you will find representative averages for what you might expect. Source: WikimediaThe best times to visit Costa Rica are late fall to early spring months when heavy rains ease.The best months during this dry season are November through April because of a lower risk of rain. Limon temperatures are not a factor because they remain steady. The rainy season does not mean that it rains nonstop . The best advice is that you should wait until the political temperatures cool. 1. Here's some information to help you in your decision: The best months for good weather in Tamarindo are January, February, March, April, May, July, November and December. They are more likely to experience an increase in total rainfall. If you are visiting the country, take note of the times we have given you and avoid the places we have warned you. First, let us say that theres truly no bad time to visit Costa Rica. You can see sea turtles at different times throughout the year, but the most famous spot to see them is in Tortuguero National Park on the north Caribbean coast, and July-October is the best time to see them nesting here. Check my guide to visiting Irazu Volcano a perfect place to visit during Costa Ricas dry season. Flight from San Jos to Billings. Best time to visit Costa Rica Happily, the best weather coincides with Christmas, new Year, spring half term and the worst of the northern winters. Rainfall reaches more than three inches in October through December, but the totals are still low compared to the rest of the Caribbean. Therefore, to be on the safe side, you can opt to visit at the end of January or the start of February to avoid such inconveniences while still enjoying the great weather. Our personal favorite time to go to Costa Rica is July and August when there's a bit more rain but even fewer visitors and slightly lower prices and of course it's great to travel during the secret dry season on the Caribbean in September and October In fact there's no bad time to go. Knowing when to go can make a difference for cruise visitors who want to explore one of the most popular and wettest ecotourism destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Weather in the popular capital of San Jos has more in common with Puntarenas than Limon. Here you can do diving, mountain climbing, and snorkeling, among other activities. At the end of the month, the big crowds which had turned up to celebrate the Easter holiday start to go low, and the hotels charge the cheapest. The month also gives a chance to visit the parks to see how animals transition their behavioral patterns. Dont think your trip is doomed to heavy rains all day, every day if you visit from October through early December. Costa Rica during the dry season is lovely warm weather, sunny days, clear skies, and infrequent rain. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 88 F and average low is 74 F. There are about 10 days of rain and 4.5 inches of rain falling during the month. Wildlife watching:loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast. The worst months to visit Puntarenas are May through Octoberespecially September. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica in 2023, 15 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Traveling, The 15 Best Hotels in Ocean City, MD in 2023, The 15 Best Hotels in Rome in 2023 | For All Budgets, The Best Hotels in Orlando in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Seattle in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Hotels in Philadelphia in 2023. It is surrounded by very welcoming locals who guide through the waters and the hiking trails. Barrio La California, You will notice that some are closer to the roads, and their health starts to pick up. Traveling to new places has changed our lives, and we hope to share our experience, insight, and passion with you in order to inspire you to change yours as well! If you're looking for the very warmest time to visit La Fortuna, the hottest months are April, March, and then February. See average Costa Rica temperatures, seasonal weather patterns, pricing differences between the two seasons, and the least crowded time of year to visit below. If you want to surf, then it depends on the region. On the Pacific Coast, the month with the highest amount of rain. Therefore, there are certain things you should keep in mind if you intend to travel to Costa Rica during the rainy season to stay secure and comfortable. The humidity increases as you travel south along the Pacific coast. Whereas the Nation is one of the most attractive in Central America, there are times you should avoid it as much as you can. All rights reserved. September and October These two months are by far the rainiest in Costa Rica. The first window is during February and March when the city experiences an average of about eight to nine inches of rain each month, according to 30 years of data from the World Weather Organization. Limon gets hit hard with rain throughout most of the year, but the Puntarenas cruise port on the Pacific coast fares much better. The beginning of January is a peak travel season in Costa Rica, as crowds from the Christmas and New Year holidays linger. He picks out April as one of the best months you should visit Costa Rica. The coasts are generally warmer, and the highlands are generally cooler. Since these months fall between peak seasons, there are fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices. The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2023. If you want to see the world, go see it! September can be a great month to travel or a washout, depending on where you are in Costa Rica. Best time to beat the crowds with an average 39% drop in price. Sunnier days and lower rainfall is evident throughout the country. This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal. Dry Seasons February, March, April, August (2nd half), September, October These months are the driest of the year with occasional rain usually occurring at night or early in the morning. In Central Costa Rica, the average high is 87 F and average low is 73 F. By the end of the month, you have 50% sunny days and 8 days of rain, but the rainy days decrease as the month goes on. The vegetation is lush, waterfalls are high, and you have a good chance to see whales, nesting turtles in some regions, and enjoy surfing on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The choices of the animal parks you can visit are limited to places such as the Punta Uva and Cahuita National Parks. The worst months are May through October because of. September to November sees the lowest crowds in Costa Rica, as this is the height of the rainy season. Keep in mind that the landscapes and climates of Costa Rica vary greatly by region. Authentic specialties like casado, gallo pinto, sopa negra, and more await your taste buds when you dive into the real Costa Rica off the beaten path. Source: Wikimedia, Total cruise visitors by month. But what sets this resort apart is the stunning location with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. January-February and July-September are the best months to see whales on the Pacific coast. January and February are smack dab in the dry season, with plenty of sunny days and low rain. The UNESCO world heritage listed the island as among the best-inhabited places for those who love nature. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. This is still squarely in the rainy season, with approximately half the days seeing rain and 6 inches of rain falling throughout the month. Today, Tamperes old cotton mills have been turned into chic malls,, Read More The 20 Best Things to do in Tampere, FinlandContinue, Tahiti is one of those places where the nautical conditions are pretty much near perfect all year long. May through November is the green season. But Costa Ricas two seasons (dry and rainy) mean the weather there swings wildly throughout the year. Puntarenas is quiet during the summer. The worst time to visit Costa Rica is during the rainy season which runs from May to November. Costa Rica Pacific vs Caribbean Coast: Which is Best for You? We'll go over the best (and worst) times to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more in this article. Undoubtedly, the best weather is in January and February, when Costa Rica is still early in the dry season, and the skies are clear and rain is very low. Costa Rica Experts 2023. On the Caribbean coast, the average high is 85 F, and average low is 77 F. Rain falls about half of the days in November, and 6 inches falling during the course of the month. The north Pacific is the driest part of the country and the south Pacific is one of the wettest places in Costa Rica. May is a bit of a transitionmonth, in which the rain picks up, but not quiteat the rate oflater greenseason months. There are less tourists, particularly during the months of September-early November, and prices are thus also lower during these times. Probably you have been planning on visiting Costa Rica, and you have shed to the internet, the chances are that you are given narrations of how this month is great in Costa Rica. Tie in a neighbour. Around 75% of the country's 6,000,000 people live on less than $2 per day, well below the poverty line of most countries. South Pacific | Visit Costa Rica | Costa Rica Tourism Official website Skip to main content If you must travel during this time be sure to check local weather conditions and plan your route accordingly. Here comes the part of our guide that many would flash by the headlines. with some heavy rain still to be expected until the end of November, but by mid-December the worst will certainly be over. July and August are popular travel times due to less rain, family summer vacations, and active green season wildlife. While theres really not a bad time to go to Costa Rica, the worst time to plan your first visit is during late December through January. While weather is the primary factor, other considerations include an increase in crowded beaches and resorts as well as higher prices. Most of the businesses are available online, so compare prices. Instead, it has a dry season and a rainy season. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from January through February and in July. This is probably the quickest and most convenient option, but it's also pretty expensive individually. Check my honest comparison to figure out where to go on vacation. The dry season has plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for wildlife watching, beach lounging, and indulging in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. At elevations above sea level, often referred to as the lowlands, the temperature is typically approximately 79 Fahrenheit (26 Celsius), whereas, in the so-called highlands, it is typically 55 Fahrenheit (13 Celsius). You must also be aware that some locations are susceptible to flooding and landslides. The mountain areas are constantly receiving rains and unpredictable weather changes this month, and you are highly discouraged from having outdoor camping this month. Costa Rica has a very diverse and changeable climate. In order to keep dry and avoid getting muddy whenever possible, make sure you pack the proper clothing and footwear. But they do give some guidelines on how to reduce the chance of running into bad weather. There are direct flights from San Jose to Tamarindo that take about 1 hour, but keep in mind that you'll have to factor in time for checking in and going through security at the airport. The temperature in Costa Rica is basically the same all year round. Here are the top five reasons why: Spectacular sunset at Mansita Beach, Hacienda Pinilla. Source . . You may even find you have the beach all to yourself. The rainy season ends in October, which is the beginning of the shoulder season. Wildlife watching:Alaska/California humpback whales; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, A beautiful, clear day on the Nicoya Peninsula from Hotel Punta Islita. Expect that if you leave valuable items in plain sight and unattended, such as on the beach or in the car, that they will be taken. There are some places which, if you make the right decisions on when to visit them, will give you the most extraordinary experience you will ever have. Mid-March to early May and mid-October to early December are the best months to visit Japan due to its stunning colors and mild weather. This tropical Central American country is nestled between Nicaragua (to the north) and Panama (to the south). You can choose from among leisure activities. Sunsets are just horrible. Though not common, there are reported cases of rapes, assaults, and robberies at different beaches. DID YOU KNOW: Its not uncommon for Costa Rica to run out of rental cars during the high season which is January. The transition months from dry to rainy are April and May. Julien is an exploration-minded, curiosity-driven traveler and blogger. So, Whats the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica? Even though Costa Rica is a small country, it has vastly different weather patterns, thanks a variety of microclimates. This period is during the low season, so youll deal with fewer tourists and may feel like youve got the place to yourself. On average, the warmest months are January, February, March, April, May, June and August. Multiple pools, Read More 10 Reasons Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences is the Perfect Group Getaway in Cabo, MexicoContinue, Until not too long ago, Tampere was a slightly gritty town that was better known for its industry than its beauty. Rainy days and cloudy skies continue throughout the country. We enter peak season for travel at the end of December around the holidays. From scarlet macaws to slow-moving sloths, you will be astounded at the diversity of life youll find in this country. The rain brings out the best in Costa Ricas flora. For the daring and the experienced, the biggest waves can be found during the rainier months of September and October. Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two seasons: dry season and rainy (or, "green," as locals may call it) season. Thats great, because youre definitely going to want to try some of the famous dishes this country is known for. So while we cant answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. Best Rainy Season Activities. If budget is your main concern, youll want to visit Costa Rica sometime between September and mid-December (the low season). The cheaper pricing is just a bonus! Arguably, this is one of the worst months you should avoid if you are visiting Costa Rica. Most Pacific Coast and the Central Mountains receive a lot of sunshine during these warmer months. Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. 2017 Scott S. Bateman, Despite heavy year-round rain, clear skies are possible like this one in Zacero. Many report that November and early December are the best times to go on a budget. In conclusion, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your preferences. The toughest areas are the mountains, where nighttime temperatures can fall below 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius). The highlands tend to be cooler, whereas the beaches tend to be warmer. Budget-wise, peak weeks that occur around Christmas and Easter are the worst times to visit Costa Rica. Costa Rica doesnt have the 4 traditional seasons. And the only tradeoff is a little short-lived rainfall during your stay! Costa Rica is still in the rainy season, and it is one of the wettest months of the year. What Is The Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica? Natural Science Museum La Salle Courtesy of phaitoon - Fotolia.com The hottest months of the year in Costa Rica are from February to April, with March or April typically having the highest daily temperatures. Bolivia doesn't quite have the family appeal of Costa Rica or Cancun, say - but those thinking of traveling in Bolivia with kids shouldn't be deterred. I feel compelled to state that I am not a weather girl, nor can I predict the future. It allows you to swap your heavy winter clothing with admirable carnival costumes. Get forecasts each morning for every major island. Discover Costa Rica's cloud forests, coral reefs and volcanos in new and exciting ways on these four amazing tours; The 50 most attractive nationalities revealed: India is No.1, USA comes second . On the Pacific Coast, the average high is 89 F and average low is 79 F. There are 16 days with rain, receiving about 6.5 inches of rain total. In this post, we'll cover the best (and worst) time to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more.

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