Costa Rica rainforest mountain

Costa Rica, Rainforest view

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

A month by month guide of when to visit Costa Rica

Sun, surf, or rainforest – there's no wrong time to visit Costa Rica.

Month by month guide of where to go and when

Costa Rica’s varied climate and vibrant ecosystems mean there’s always something worth travelling for, whether you’re chasing dry-season sun or craving rainforest adventure. Understanding the seasonal differences across the country can help you plan the trip that’s right for you.

Dry Season (December to April) This is Costa Rica’s most popular time to visit, with clear skies, warm days, and barely any rain, ideal for beach breaks, wildlife spotting, and active adventures.

Pacific Coast: This is prime time for surfing, snorkelling, or simply unwinding on the beach. Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula is particularly appealing now, with its golden sands and reliably dry weather. Look out for the Envision Festival in Uvita (Feb–Mar), a colourful blend of music, wellness, and sustainability.

Central Valley: San José and the surrounding highlands are comfortably mild. It’s a good time to explore coffee farms, museums, and volcanoes. January brings the Fiestas de Palmares, a major cultural event packed with music, food, and traditional (non-lethal) bullfighting.

Green Season (May to November) Rainfall picks up during these months, especially in the afternoons, but this is when Costa Rica’s landscapes are at their most lush. It’s also a quieter, more affordable time to travel.

Caribbean Coast: Expect more consistent rainfall, with temperatures from 24–30°C. This is turtle nesting season in Tortuguero, and October’s Limón Carnival offers a lively celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture.

Northern Plains & Arenal: Rain brings the rainforest to life, making it an excellent time for birding, zip-lining, and soaking in volcanic hot springs. Temperatures hover around 24–29°C, with the Arenal Volcano often shrouded in mist for an atmospheric feel.

Central & South Pacific: Short, sharp showers don’t dampen the appeal of this region. With temperatures from 27–32°C, you’ll still enjoy beach time and wildlife-rich hikes, particularly in Manuel Antonio National Park, Golfito Dulce & the Osa Peninsula.

Costa Rica Arenal volcano

January

January in Costa Rica falls during the dry season. It's an ideal time to visit regions like Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, known for their beautiful beaches. Places like Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo offer warm waters for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling. For adventure seekers, Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are popular destinations, offering opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and exploring hot springs. Manuel Antonio National Park is another fantastic location to visit in January, where you can enjoy both stunning beaches and diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.

Costa Rica Rainforest walkway Jaco

February

February continues to be part of the dry season in most parts of Costa Rica. Still a great time to go to Manuel Antonio National Park as it offers fantastic opportunities for beach relaxation, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is another must-visit destination in February, offering extraordinary birdwatching experiences and breathtaking hikes through misty cloud forests. Tortuguero National Park, located on the Caribbean coast, is a great location for wildlife encounters.

Costa Rica Beach

March

The dry season continues in March, providing sunny and dry weather, perfect for outdoor exploration. Visit Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula, including popular destinations like Nosara and Santa Teresa, which offer idyllic beaches, ideal for sunbathing and water activities like swimming and surfing. March is an excellent time to visit Montezuma, known for its bohemian atmosphere, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant arts scene.

Costa Rica Pink Flowers San Jose

April

April marks the transition from the dry season to the beginning of the rainy season in Costa Rica. In the Central Valley, including the capital city San Jose and the neighbouring city of Heredia, you can explore cultural attractions, museums, and local markets to get a taste of Costa Rican city life. The Osa Peninsula is a great destination for nature lovers, with its rich biodiversity in Corcovado National Park and Golfo Dulce, offering opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, jaguars, pumas, and various bird species.

Costa Rica Tortuguero turtles

May

May is the start of the rainy season in Costa Rica, although the weather may be wetter, this month brings its own allure and opportunities. Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast is a must-visit, with the lush rainforest foilage. Sarapiqui, located in the north-eastern part of the country, offers rainforest activities such as guided hikes, river rafting, and visits to chocolate plantations.

Costa Rica waterfall

June

The rainy season continues in June, with more rainfall and high humidity levels. Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, known for their stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities, are ideal destinations during June. Explore the rainforest trails, soak in volcanic hot springs, and embark on thrilling activities like zip-lining and canyoning. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts, offering the chance to spot rare and colourful avian species.

Costa Rica landscape

July

July falls within the rainy season in Costa Rica, with continued rainfall and high humidity. Manuel Antonio National Park remains a popular choice, offering a combination of pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, with its Caribbean vibe, offers a laid-back atmosphere, surfing opportunities, and chances to explore the nearby wildlife-rich Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. It's also start of the turtle nesting season in Tortuguero National Park.

Costa Rica White Water Rafting

August

August remains within the rainy season in Costa Rica, with high rainfall and humidity. The Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park, is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, offering the opportunity to spot endangered species like jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. Turrialba and Pacuare are an excellent choice for adventurous travellers, known for white-water rafting opportunities, volcano hikes, and beautiful landscapes. Manuel Antonio National Park continues to be a favourite, with its picturesque beaches and diverse wildlife.

Costa Rica resplendent quetzal

September

September falls within the rainy season in Costa Rica. It's essential to be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential storms during this month and some lodges close at this time of year. La Selva Biological Station, located in the Sarapiqui region, offers the opportunity to explore the rainforest, engage in birdwatching, and learn about ongoing research projects. San Gerardo de Dota, nestled in the Talamanca Mountains, is a prime destination for birdwatching, particularly the elusive and vibrant Resplendent Quetzal.

Costa Rica San Jose

October

October is also part of the rainy season in Costa Rica, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the weather may be wet, there are still fantastic experiences to be had. The Central Valley, including San Jose and Heredia, offers cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and excellent museums that provide insight into Costa Rican heritage. It's also a good time to visit the Caribbean Coast, where rainfall tends to be lower.

Costa Rica Ox cart art

November

November marks the transition from the rainy season to the beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica. The weather becomes more predictable, with decreasing rainfall and more sunshine. The northern Pacific Coast, including popular beach destinations like Playa Flamingo and Nosara offer beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and engaging in water activities like swimming and surfing. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a prime destination in November, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities and breath-taking hikes through misty cloud forests.

Costa Rica brown back toucan

December

December marks the official beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica, with very occasional rainfall. The weather is generally pleasant and offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is a fantastic to visit Costa Rica, and in particualar before the busy festive season. Tortuguero National Park is known for its wildlife and boat tours, where you can spot monkeys, toucans, and various bird species.

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Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. We stayed in four locations, firstly at the wonderful El Karama Lodge, Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy, where we even had a visit from Ruth from Far and Wild! Then, for a return visit, to Saruni Samburu, which is absolutely stunning and still one of our favourite places in the world. Next came Basecamp Mara Camp, where we saw our first Cheetah, the only animal we didn’t see on our first visit. After that, onto the wonderful Leopards Hill in the Naiboisho Conservancy, what a way to spend the last four days of this trip. Here we finally spent many hours with a beautiful leopard. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait.

16 Aug 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

17 Sept 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

31 Jul 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

3 Jul 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

28 Jun 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

5 Jun 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

5 Jun 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

5 Jun 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

5 Jun 2024

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