When to Visit Costa Rica
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
What to Pack
Year-Round Essentials
Dry Season (Dec-Apr)
Green Season Early (May-Jul)
Green Season Peak (Aug-Nov)
Shoulder/Transitional (Nov-Dec)
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Full Packing Checklist
Interactive checklist with shopping links for every item you need.
View Costa Rica Packing List →Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak dry season with virtually no rain and reliably sunny days across the Pacific coast. It's a decent indication of why this is the most popular - and expensive - time to visit. The humidity, while present, feels less oppressive without the daily downpours.
February
Much like January, February delivers consistently dry conditions and clear skies. As you'd expect, this is prime time for wildlife viewing since animals congregate around shrinking water sources.
March
The dry season continues with increasing heat, in Guanacaste where temperatures can feel intense by midday. Interestingly, this is when wildfire risk becomes a concern in some northern areas.
April
The last reliable month of dry weather, though you'll typically notice the atmosphere shifting toward the end of the month. Easter week brings domestic tourists and closed businesses, so plan accordingly.
May
The green season arrives, usually marked by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms rather than all-day rain. It's a decent indication of the pattern to come: sunny mornings, heavy afternoon downpours, then clearing evenings.
June
Rains become more consistent though rarely ruin entire days. Worth noting: this is when sea turtle nesting season kicks into gear on both coasts, making it a surprisingly good month for wildlife ensoiasts despite the weather.
July
A strange little dry spell called the 'veranillo de San Juan' often appears mid-month, bringing a week or two of reduced rainfall. That said, it's unpredictable - you might get it, you might not.
August
Wet season proper resumes with increasing intensity. The kind of humidity that hits you the moment you step off the plane becomes more pronounced, and afternoon storms tend to last longer into the evening.
September
Peak wet season on the Pacific side, with some areas receiving impressive rainfall totals. Interestingly, this is when the Caribbean coast enters its drier period - if you're flexible, heading east makes sense.
October
The wettest month for much of the country, with some Pacific roads becoming challenging. You'll find the lowest prices and emptiest hotels, though you'll need patience and a backup plan for outdoor activities.
November
A transitional month where the rains gradually retreat. The first half can still be quite wet, but by late November you're getting a preview of the dry season to come. It's been trending drier in recent years, though you can't count on that.
December
The dry season typically establishes itself by mid-month, bringing relief from months of rain. Christmas and New Year bring peak crowds and prices, so early December has a decent sweet spot if you can manage it.