The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a stunning Central American country that offers incredible biodiversity, lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and a variety of activities for travelers. Deciding the best time to visit depends on the type of experience you are looking for.
For most travelers, the ideal time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December through April. This period, also known as verano (summer), offers the sunniest days, making it perfect for exploring national parks and lounging on the beach. The dry season heralds in peak tourism, so it’s also when you’ll find a bustling atmosphere and full range of tours and activities. However, this popularity comes with higher prices and crowded hotspots.
If your aim is to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices, consider visiting between May and November. These months constitute the green season or invierno (winter), with May and June offering a delightful balance with occasional rain showers but abundant wildlife and blossoming flora. July sees a short mid-year reprieve from rain known as veranillo or ‘little summer,’ which can be an ideal time for visitors seeking both good weather and fewer tourists.
For surfers, the best waves can be found on the Pacific coast from May to October and on the Caribbean side from November to March. Wildlife enthusiasts might prefer visiting during the wet season when nature is most vibrant; September and October are particularly good for spotting migrating birds.
Lastly, if turtles are your primary interest, note that sea turtles nest on both coasts at different times of the year. On the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is a key nesting site for green turtles with peak nesting in August and September.
In summary, while Costa Rica’s dry season is great for general travel and beach holidays, the wetter months provide unique opportunities for surfing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the country without as many tourists. So choose your travel dates based on what you wish to experience most in this incredibly diverse country.