How do you decide where to spend your vacation when you most likely want to go somewhere where the weather is just the opposite of where you live? Choosing a destination that meets your weather requirements and fits within your scheduled vacation time can be challenging. This country in Central America has distinct seasons that just might line up with your preferences and the types of activities you have planned. What’s the best time to visit this Central American country?
Here’s some insight to help you decide.
Costa Rica’s seasons
Costa Rica has two seasons: dry and wet. The dry season lasts from December through April, and the wet season spans from May through November.
In the dry season…
Advantages: Sunshine dominates, and rainfall is scarce. Beachgoers love the dry season, as it’s excellent for coastal adventures. If you love animals, spotting the vibrant quetzal bird might be all the reason you need to choose a dry season visit. If witnessing humpback whales is more to your liking, you’ll find them around the Osa Peninsula in December and January when the mild temps make for comfortable exploration.
Challenges: This is peak tourist season. The most popular months (December and March) attract numerous visitors, so flights, accommodations, and attractions are crowded. Rental cars are hard to find. The weather is generally clear, but occasional showers can occur, especially in rainforest areas where precipitation is common year-round.
In the wet season…
Advantages: Traveling during the wet season offers perks like less-crowded flights and lodging. May, September, and October have great travel deals, too. From July through September, the Caribbean coast is the place to be to witness turtle nesting. Watching a green sea turtle laying her eggs is an unforgettable experience that can outweigh the somewhat inconvenient rain.
Challenges: The primary drawback is the increased rainfall, which makes outdoor plans a lot more difficult. Tours could be hindered by sudden downpours and views of landmarks like the Arenal Volcano are typically obscured by fog and clouds. Some destinations, like Manuel Antonio, may still be busy during the rainy months, which takes away the advantage of fewer tourists.
But…there’s always a “but”…
It’s important to note that the Caribbean side doesn’t have the same climate patterns as the rest of the country. Most regions have heavy rains in September and October, but the Caribbean-facing side of Costa Rica enjoys drier conditions. If you visit in September, you’ll get the rare opportunity to see turtles nesting in the evening and the hatchlings making their way to the ocean every morning.
When should you visit Costa Rica?
If warm, dry weather and fewer crowds appeal to you, plan your trip for April, May, or September. These months strike the balance between favorable conditions and fewer visitors, but the best time to visit is all about you—do you want to bask on sun-soaked beaches, explore lush rainforests, or experience a remarkable wildlife event?
Now that you have the facts for seasonal travel to Costa Rica, it is time for you to decide: What’s the best time to visit this Central American country?
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