Travelers can visit Costa Rica year-round, but the majority of the country experiences its best months between December and April. The weather is warm with low humidity, so there’s little discomfort from the hot days.
The rainy season from June through September requires travelers to be more flexible with their plans and bring along light jackets for evenings and early mornings. In addition to being hot, wet weather can also be frustratingly unpredictable.
If you plan on taking a trip during the rainy season, make sure that you know what to expect so that you don’t waste your time and money. Costa Rica offers a variety of landscapes throughout the country, ensuring that no matter where you are there will be something different to see. It’s particularly beautiful during certain parts of the year, with many resorts opening up as well as local businesses offering discounts and specials to visitors in anticipation of peak occupancy. Even if you aren’t traveling in high season, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have an enjoyable time in Costa Rica any time of year either.
November to April
If you want to see Costa Rica at its most beautiful and busiest, book your trip in the months of November to April. This will give you access to a variety of landscapes and attractions that are sure to have you coming back for more. Not only will you be able to enjoy the most popular weather, but there’s an increased number of businesses that open up during these months as well. It’s also important to note that the rainy season starts around June and ends in September. This means that if you plan on traveling when it’s raining, you’ll need to be flexible with your plans.
May to August
The best time to visit Costa Rica is between May and August. This is the period where the weather is mostly dry and sunny, with a few dry days mixed in to help the temperature stay tolerable. It’s also when most of the activities are taking place. The less traveled months of September and October offer many opportunities for adventure, too, but this time it’s easier to find accommodations that suit your needs.
September to December
If you’re visiting in the fall, September through December can be a great time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny most days, so it’s perfect for soaking up some rays by the pool or exploring nature. Many businesses offer discounts during this time of year as well, which can help you save money while spending your hard-earned vacation dollars on fun activities like zip lining and mountain climbing. In addition to enjoying the weather, travelers should also be aware of any potential dangers during this time of year. If you do plan on traveling in Costa Rica during the rainy season, make sure that you pack accordingly so that you don’t waste your time and money.
Avoid June and July
The rainy season will last from June through September and during this time, Costa Rica experiences unpredictable rainfall. During the rainy season, travelers should expect an average of 3-4 inches of rain every day. If you decide to visit Costa Rica during this time, you should make sure that you’re prepared for wet weather and don’t rely on your cell phone or other electronic devices. The wet weather can be frustrating and cause delays to your plans.
Safety in Costa Rica
Safety is always something that travelers must consider when planning their trips. With the country’s low crime rate, it’s easy to enjoy a vacation without worrying about your well-being. This also means that there are fewer people on the streets, which makes it easier for tourists to get around and enjoy the sites.
Costa Rica is ranked as one of the safest destinations in Latin America and Europe, with only 1.7 crimes per 100,000 people in 2016. A primary reason why Costa Rica is a great place to visit is because its tourism industry has developed so much over recent years, making it easier for visitors to plan their trip and easily find accommodations throughout the country.
Getting around in Costa Rica
The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, as transportation can be tough during the rainy season. When you get there, you’ll notice that most of the cars on the road are large, double-axle trucks. These trucks are called “colectivos” and are the only vehicles allowed on major highways. They offer cheap rides and quick service to anywhere in country. If you want a more personal experience, rent a car or motorcycle from one of several car rental companies in San Jose and explore independently for your trip.
How to Save Money in Costa Rica
There are many ways to save money in Costa Rica, but the most obvious is by avoiding dining out at expensive restaurants. Most of the international tourists that visit Costa Rica go to the capital city, San Jose, which has dozens of restaurants and cafes with high prices for meals. It’s always best to have a local guide take you around the cities so that you can choose where to eat and what to do without having to pay for overpriced meals. Costa Rica offers a few cheap activities like zip lining or horseback riding in some of their national parks. If you decide on horseback riding, make sure that your ride is being conducted by a professional company and that they provide all safety gear.
Things to Do in Costa Rica
There are so many things to do in Costa Rica that it can be hard to narrow down your options. From the tropics to the mountains, there’s something for every type of traveler. The country has a lot of natural attractions like volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches. Costa Rica also offers a variety of activities for those who want a more relaxed vacation. There are lots of opportunities to hike, bike, or horseback ride through the country. If you like golfing, you can visit several courses throughout Costa Rica that offer great views and challenging courses. On top of that, the country is home to various water sports like surfing and scuba diving. Ideally, you should plan your trip around one central activity then branch out from there with other attractions in nearby areas. If you have children in tow but don’t want them getting bored during your time away from home, make sure you bring along some educational activities for them too!
Conclusion
Costa Rica is an excellent destination to travel to year-round, but November to April is the best time to visit. The weather is warm and the prices are lower. The rainy season is during the summer months, so if you’re looking for sunshine and warm temperatures, May to August is a good choice. Avoid visiting in June and July, as these are the busiest months. If you’re looking for hotels and resorts that are affordable, September to December is a time when you can find good deals on hotel rooms and activities.