Things to Do in Costa Rica in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Costa Rica
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing means you'll save 20-35% on accommodations compared to December-March rates, with beach hotels in Guanacaste and Manuel Antonio dropping from peak season premiums while still maintaining full service
- Green season just beginning means landscapes are transforming from dry brown to vibrant green, waterfalls are starting to flow stronger, and wildlife is incredibly active as animals take advantage of early rains - best photography conditions of the year
- Significantly fewer crowds at major attractions like Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park compared to high season, meaning you'll actually enjoy the trails without fighting tour groups and can book activities with just 3-5 days notice instead of weeks ahead
- Sea conditions on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts are typically excellent in early April - calm waters, good visibility for snorkeling and diving (20-25 m or 65-80 ft), and sea turtle nesting season is ramping up on both coasts
Considerations
- Weather unpredictability increases as transition month between dry and rainy seasons - you might get lucky with mostly sunny days, or you might catch early afternoon thunderstorms, making it harder to plan multi-day hiking or beach trips with confidence
- Some tour operators and smaller hotels in remote areas close for annual maintenance during the last two weeks of April, particularly in Southern Zone destinations like Corcovado and Drake Bay, limiting options if you're visiting late month
- Humidity climbs noticeably from early to late April, reaching that sticky threshold where air conditioning becomes necessary rather than optional, and outdoor activities between 11am-3pm can feel genuinely uncomfortable
Best Activities in April
Arenal Volcano hiking and hot springs
April hits the sweet spot before heavy rains make trails muddy. The volcano area gets afternoon cloud cover building up, but mornings are typically clear for the best views. Trails around the 1968 lava flows are accessible and not crowded, and the hot springs feel especially good as evening temperatures cool down. Wildlife spotting is excellent as animals are more active with the changing weather patterns. You'll see toucans, howler monkeys, and sloths without the high season crowds.
Monteverde Cloud Forest canopy tours
Cloud forests are at their most atmospheric in April as moisture increases but trails remain manageable. The famous hanging bridges and zip lines operate in light mist, which actually makes the experience more dramatic. Bird watching is phenomenal right now - resplendent quetzals are still visible from nesting season, and morning tours between 6am-9am offer the best wildlife encounters. The cooler temperatures at 1,400 m (4,600 ft) elevation feel refreshing compared to lowland heat.
Manuel Antonio National Park beach and wildlife combination
April is arguably the best month for Manuel Antonio - the park limits visitors to 600 per day, but you'll find it much easier to get tickets than in high season. Beaches are less crowded, wildlife is active in the cooler morning hours, and the forest is starting to green up beautifully. White-faced capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, and iguanas are everywhere. Ocean conditions are typically calm for swimming at Manuel Antonio and Espadilla beaches. The 2.5 km (1.6 miles) of trails are still dry enough for regular shoes.
Tortuguero canals kayaking and wildlife watching
April is transition time on the Caribbean side, with green sea turtle nesting season beginning mid-month through October. The canal system through the rainforest is at ideal water levels - high enough for easy paddling but not flooding. You'll see caimans, river otters, howler monkeys, toucans, and incredible bird diversity. The area gets rain year-round anyway, so April's showers don't really change the experience. Temperatures are warm but not oppressive at 28-30°C (82-86°F), and the jungle is lush and vibrant.
Guanacaste Pacific beaches and snorkeling
The North Pacific Guanacaste region is in its absolute prime in April - this is the tail end of dry season here, meaning virtually guaranteed sunshine, calm seas, and the landscape still golden brown before rains transform it. Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo, and the Papagayo Peninsula offer excellent snorkeling with 20 m (65 ft) visibility. Water temperature is a comfortable 27-28°C (81-82°F). Beaches are noticeably less crowded than February-March peak. Sunset sailing tours are spectacular with clear skies.
White water rafting on Pacuare or Sarapiqui rivers
April offers ideal rafting conditions as rivers are flowing well from late dry season runoff but not dangerously high like they get in September-October. The Pacuare River, considered one of the world's most scenic rafting trips, runs through pristine rainforest canyon with Class III-IV rapids that are exciting but manageable. Water temperature is warm enough that you won't be cold. The Sarapiqui River near La Fortuna offers slightly calmer Class II-III options good for families. Wildlife sightings from the river include toucans, kingfishers, and occasional river otters.
April Events & Festivals
Dia de Juan Santamaria
April 11th is a national holiday celebrating Costa Rica's national hero who died fighting William Walker's filibuster invasion in 1856. The main celebration happens in Alajuela, Santamaria's hometown, with parades, concerts, and cultural events. Banks and government offices close, but tourist services remain open. Worth experiencing if you're near the Central Valley, though it's more locally significant than tourist-oriented. Expect some road closures and increased domestic travel.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
If Easter falls in April in 2026, this becomes the single biggest domestic travel week of the year. Beaches absolutely pack with Tico families, prices spike 40-60% at coastal hotels, and many businesses close Thursday-Sunday. Religious processions happen in cities, alcohol sales are restricted on Thursday and Friday, and beach towns transform into party zones. If you want authentic local culture, it's fascinating. If you want quiet beaches and good value, avoid this week entirely. Easter 2026 is April 20, so Holy Week runs April 13-19.