Best time to visit Costa Rica
Dry season (December–April) is peak time. The "green season" (May–November) brings afternoon rains but lush landscapes and lower prices.
Month-by-month overview
| Month | High / Low | Rainfall | Crowds | Prices | Verdict | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24° / 14°C | 5mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Feb | 25° / 14°C | 5mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Mar | 26° / 15°C | 10mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | — |
| Apr | 27° / 16°C | 45mm | Medium | $$Mid | Good | Semana Santa |
| May | 27° / 16°C | 230mm | Low | $Low | Okay | Green season starts |
| Jun | 27° / 16°C | 240mm | Low | $Low | Okay | — |
| Jul | 26° / 16°C | 200mm | Low | $Low | Good | Mini dry spell on Pacific |
| Aug | 27° / 16°C | 240mm | Low | $Low | Okay | — |
| Sep | 26° / 16°C | 300mm | Low | $Low | Avoid | Wettest month |
| Oct | 26° / 16°C | 310mm | Low | $Low | Avoid | Heavy rain continues |
| Nov | 25° / 15°C | 170mm | Low | $Low | Okay | — |
| Dec | 24° / 14°C | 40mm | High | $$$Peak | Great | Dry season returns |
Month-by-month deep dives
Festivals & events
Fiestas de Palmares
JanTwo-week rodeo, concerts, and carnival in the Central Valley.
Envision Festival
Feb–MarBoutique music and wellness festival on the Pacific coast.
Día de la Independencia
SepIndependence Day parades with schoolchildren carrying lanterns.
Costa Ricaweather & timing FAQ
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
December–April is the sweet spot. Dry season (December–April) is peak time. The "green season" (May–November) brings afternoon rains but lush landscapes and lower prices.
When is peak tourist season in Costa Rica?
Peak season runs through December–March. Expect higher prices, busier sites, and the need to book accommodation and major experiences several weeks ahead.
What's the cheapest time to visit Costa Rica?
July typically combines the lowest accommodation rates with the smallest crowds — still a good window on weather and conditions. Mini dry spell on Pacific.
What's the weather like in Costa Rica in April?
April averages a high of about 27°C (81°F) with lows around 16°C. Expect roughly 45mm of rainfall across the month. Semana Santa.
What festivals or events happen in Costa Rica?
Standout dates include Fiestas de Palmares (Jan), Envision Festival (Feb–Mar), Día de la Independencia (Sep). Fiestas de Palmares: Two-week rodeo, concerts, and carnival in the Central Valley.
What should I pack for Costa Rica?
Costa Rica's climate is mild — highs around 27°C, lows around 14°C. A few warm layers plus a light rain shell handle most months.
Are there months to avoid in Costa Rica?
Skip September and October if you can — these months score lowest across weather, crowd, and price in our calendar. Common issues: Wettest month and Heavy rain continues.
How crowded does Costa Rica get?
Crowds peak in September, October, January, February, March, and December — book accommodation 6–8 weeks ahead and expect queues at flagship sights. Outside those windows, even popular cities feel noticeably calmer.
Book your Costa Rica trip for December–April
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